What products are covered under Trademark Class 15?

Class 15 trademark includes a wide range of musical instruments and related accessories. Examples are guitars, violins, pianos, drums, flutes, trumpets, saxophones, keyboards, synthesizers, tuning forks, drumsticks, and instrument stands. Essentially, if a product is a musical instrument or a part/accessory used with an instrument, it falls under Class

3. Are electronic musical instruments included in Trademark Class 15?

Yes, electronic musical instruments are fully included under trademark Class

Are musical instrument accessories covered under Trademark Class 15?

Yes, accessories directly related to musical instruments fall under trademark Class

How long does Trademark Class 15 trademark registration take in India?

Registration under Class 15 generally takes 12 to 18 months. The process begins with examination by the Trademark Registry, where officials review the application for classification, originality, and similarity with existing trademarks. Once approved, the mark is published in the Trademark Journal for four months, during which third parties may file oppositions.

Can I file a multi-Class application with Trademark Class 15?

Yes, businesses can file multi-class applications that include trademark Class 15 along with other relevant classes. This is useful for brands that operate in multiple product categories, such as Class 35 for retail stores or Class 41 for music services. Each class requires a separate government fee, but combining multiple classes streamlines the process and ensures broader brand protection.

Can I register a Class 15 trademark without using it?

Yes, Indian trademark law allows businesses to file under Class 15 on a “proposed to be used” basis. You can reserve a brand name even before selling instruments or accessories. However, the brand must eventually be used in commerce, and proof of use may be required to maintain registration. Early filing prevents others from registering similar marks while your business is being set up.

What happens if someone opposes my Class 15 trademark?

If a third party files an opposition, the Trademark Registry conducts proceedings where both parties submit evidence and arguments. The Registrar then decides whether to approve or reject the trademark. Professional legal support improves the chances of a successful outcome. Addressing oppositions promptly ensures your brand remains protected.

Are guitar strings and drumsticks covered under Trademark Class 15?

Yes, guitar strings, drumsticks, and other accessories directly related to musical instruments are covered under Class

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Intellectual Property Trademark

Trademark Class 15: Musical Instruments & Accessories

Joel Dsouza

Updated:Jan 21, 2026

12 min read

Trademark Class 15 is a category under the NICE Classification system that covers musical instruments and items. Businesses that manufacture, sell, or trade musical instruments, including string, wind, brass, and percussion instruments, use this trademark class for registration. It also includes electronic musical instruments and synthesizers that people use for music creation.

This class also extends to their parts, fittings, and accessories, such as tuning forks, metronomes, and instrument stands.

However, this class does not cover recorded music, sound recordings, or audio equipment. It only protects the brand identity of musical instruments and their essential accessories. Read this blog for detailed information about trademark Class 15, including the process of registration.

What is Trademark Class 15?

Trademark Class 15 covers musical instruments and their accessories, including guitars, pianos, strings, drumsticks, etc. Trademark Class 15 follows the NICE Classification (11th Edition), adopted by the Indian Trademark Registry. In India, the Trade Marks Act, 1999, governs trademark registration of class 15 and grants businesses exclusive legal rights to use the mark. This legal right prevents others from copying and misusing your brand name.

Registration under Class 15 Trademark also helps businesses build customer trust and brand recognition. It allows owners to take legal action against trademark infringement and supports smooth business expansion. A registered trademark becomes a valuable business asset over time.

Popular examples registered under Trademark Class 15 include brands such as Yamaha, Fender, Gibson, and Steinway & Sons. These registered brands enjoy strong global recognition with wide popularity among professionals, and are legally protected from imitation.

Who Should Choose Trademark Class 15 in India?

Businesses involved in musical instruments and related products should register under Trademark Class 15. The main beneficiaries include:

Musical instrument manufacturers: Companies producing guitars, pianos, violins, drums, or wind instruments.
Electronic instrument brands: Businesses selling keyboards, synthesizers, and digital musical instruments.
Musical accessory makers: Brands manufacturing guitar strings, drumsticks, mouthpieces, tuning forks, or metronomes.
Instrument retailers and traders: Businesses distributing musical instruments and their parts under a brand name.
Exporters of musical instruments: Companies exporting instruments or accessories can protect their brand in global markets.

Registering under Trademark Class 15 lets these businesses protect their brand from unfair market competition.

Key Categories in Trademark Class 15

Trademark Class 15 covers musical instruments and items directly related to music production. The key categories include:

String instruments: Guitars, violins, cellos, and similar instruments.
Wind instruments: Flutes, clarinets, saxophones, and recorders.
Brass instruments: Trumpets, trombones, tubas, and horns.
Percussion instruments: Drums, cymbals, xylophones, and tambourines.
Electronic musical instruments: Keyboards, synthesizers, and digital instruments.
Parts and accessories: Strings, bows, drumsticks, mouthpieces, tuning devices, and instrument stands.

These categories help businesses choose the correct trademark coverage for their musical products.

Detailed List of Goods Covered Under Trademark Class 15 in India

The table below covers a detailed list of musical instruments and items included in trademark class 15:

Category	Examples of Goods Covered
String Instruments	Guitars, Violins, Harps, Banjos, Mandolins
Keyboard Instruments	Pianos, Organs, Accordions, Synthesizers, Keyboards
Percussion Instruments	Drums, Tambourines, Xylophones, Bongos, Cymbals
Wind Instruments	Flutes, Clarinets, Saxophones, Trumpets, Harmonicas
Electronic Musical Instruments	Electronic keyboards, Digital pianos, Drum pads, Synthesizers
Musical Instrument Accessories	Guitar strings, Drumsticks, Violin bows, Mouthpieces, Reeds
Tuning and Metronome Devices	Tuning forks, Metronomes, Electronic tuners
Instrument Stands & Holders	Music stands, Guitar stands, Drum racks
Conducting & Performance Tools	Conductors’ batons, Music practice aids
Other Musical Instruments	Xylophones, Tambourines, Castanets, Marimbas, Bagpipes

This table includes the majority of musical instruments and accessories covered under Trademark Class 15.

Goods not Covered in Trademark Class 15

Class 15 Trademark only protects the instruments, their parts, and accessories used to create or perform music. Anything outside that scope falls under other classes.

The table below describes the goods that do not fall in Trademark class 15 category:

Goods	Recommended Trademark Class
Recorded music, CDs, and digital audio files	Class 9
Music streaming services or apps	Class 41
Audio equipment (speakers, microphones, headphones)	Class 9
Sheet music and printed music publications (unless part of a mechanical instrument)	Class 16
Non-musical toys or electronic gadgets	Class 28
Merchandise unrelated to musical instruments (clothing, bags)	Class 25

Class 15 protects musical instruments and accessories, while other products need different classes. Multi-class filing lets you cover all related goods and services in one application, giving stronger trademark protection across categories.

How to Register for Trademark Class 15 in India?

You can apply for a trademark in Class 15, whether your musical instruments or items are “already in use” or planned for future launch. Proper registration secures legal ownership of your brand in India and protects it from misuse. Follow the following steps to complete your trademark registration process under Class 15 safely:

Step 1: Preparation Before Filing

Trademark Search:
Conduct a search to ensure your brand name or logo is not already registered under Class 15. You can use the IP India Trademark Search portal (tmrsearch.ipindia.gov) or RegisterKaro’s trademark name availability tool.

This image displays a screenshot from the Indian Trademark Registry Database for Class 15, showing the trademark’s legal status and its official classification in India.

Note: Use the Free Trademark Class Search Tool to identify the correct class for your product.

Step 2: Application Submission

Filing Form TM-A: File Form TM-A online through the IP India Trademark Portal (ipindiaonline.gov.in) under Class 15 guidelines.

This is an image of the TM-A form for reference.

Government Fees (Approximate):

Individuals, startups, MSMEs: Rs. 4,500 per class
Companies and other entities: Rs. 9,000 per class

Single-Class vs. Multi-Class Filing:

Single-Class: Covers only Class 15 goods (musical instruments and accessories).
Multi-Class: Suitable if your brand also operates in other classes.

Step 3: Examination and Publication

Examination: The Trademark Registry reviews your application for originality, correct classification, and similarity with existing marks. If any issues arise, they issue an Examination Report.

Responding to Objections: You must reply to trademark objections within 30 days to keep the application active.

Trademark Journal Publication: Once approved, the mark is published in the Trademark Journal for four months. During this period, third parties may file a trademark opposition.

Expected Timeline: Examination usually takes 6-12 months, followed by the 4-month publication period.

After Registration

You gain exclusive rights to use your trademark and the ® symbol.

Trademark Class 15 is valid for 10 years. Businesses must renew their trademark every 10 years.
Monitor the market to prevent unauthorized use and protect your brand effectively.

Registering your trademark under Class 15 builds customer trust and ensures long-term protection for your brand in India.

The trademark registration process can sometimes be confusing and complex. Take professional assistance for the trademark registration process. Contact RegisterKaro for expert guidance and end-to-end registration support.

Documents Required for Class 15 Trademark Registration

To register a trademark under Class 15 for musical instruments and related accessories, applicants must submit the following documents:

Trademark Application (Form TM-A): Includes applicant details, trademark information, and a clear list of musical instruments or accessories.
Trademark Image: Logo or wordmark in the desired format.
Identity Proof: PAN, Aadhaar, or passport (for individuals).
Address Proof: Utility bill, bank statement, or any official address document.
Business Registration Proof (if applicable): Certificate of Incorporation (COI), LLP deed, or MSME registration.
Authorization Letter (Form TM-48): File the TM-48 form through (ipindia.gov.in) when filing through an agent or attorney.
Usage Declaration (if already in use): First date of use along with invoices, product photos, or catalogs.
Proof of Product Sale or Activity: Catalogs, packaging images, or invoices showing musical instruments or accessories in the market.

Registering your trademark with the correct documents ensures smooth processing.

Common Mistakes While Registering for Trademark Class 15

Businesses often make mistakes when applying for Trademark Class 15 in India. These errors can lead to objections, delays, or even rejection. Avoid the following mistakes:

Choosing the wrong class: Some applicants confuse musical instruments with audio equipment, recorded music, or music services, which fall under other classes.
Using vague product descriptions: Broad terms like “musical products” or “instruments” may raise objections. Specify the type of instruments or accessories clearly.
Skipping a trademark search: Filing without checking existing trademarks can lead to conflicts with similar marks.
Ignoring brand distinctiveness: Generic or descriptive names like “Guitar World” or “Piano Store” face higher rejection risks. The brand must be unique and memorable.
Missing objections or deadlines: Failing to respond to examination reports within 30 days can result in application abandonment.
Not planning for future products: Registering only current instruments or accessories may require new filings if the business expands to other musical items.
Filing without professional guidance: Incorrect forms or incomplete documents can delay approval. Expert assistance ensures accurate filing and strengthens your application.

Avoiding these mistakes helps secure faster approval, stronger legal protection, and long-term brand value. Start your Class 15 trademark registration with professional support to safeguard your musical instruments or accessories brand confidently. Contact RegisterKaro today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Trademark Class 15 in India covers musical instruments and related accessories. This includes guitars, pianos, violins, drums, flutes, keyboards, synthesizers, and other musical instruments, as well as parts and accessories like guitar strings, drumsticks, tuning forks, and instrument stands. Under the NICE Classification system, Class 15 helps businesses secure exclusive rights over their brand name or logo, preventing competitors from using similar marks for similar products. Proper registration reduces the risk of brand misuse and strengthens market recognition.

No, music software, apps, or streaming services are not included in the Class 15 trademark. This class specifically protects physical musical instruments, their parts, and accessories, such as guitars, pianos, drums, and tuning devices. Products like music apps, digital recordings, or online streaming services fall under other classes, Class 9 for software and digital recordings, and Class 41 for music education or entertainment services. Registering these items under Class 15 would lead to objections or rejection.

Manufacturers, traders, retailers, and exporters of musical instruments and related accessories should register under Class 15. This includes businesses dealing in guitars, pianos, drums, wind instruments, electronic instruments, and instrument parts. Even small music shops or startups benefit from early registration, as it secures exclusive rights to their brand and prevents future legal disputes.

The government fee for registering a Class 15 trademark varies depending on the applicant type. Individuals, startups, and MSMEs pay Rs. 4,500 per class, while companies and other entities pay Rs. 9,000 per class. These fees are paid when filing Form TM-A online through the IP India portal. Professional or consultancy charges, if used, are separate. Paying the correct fee ensures smooth processing and faster approval.

Trademark registration under class 15 for musical instruments and items is not legally mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. Registering under Class 15 gives businesses exclusive brand rights, prevents imitation, builds credibility, and supports long-term growth. In a competitive music industry, a registered trademark strengthens brand position and provides legal recourse in case of infringement.

Yes, minor amendments to product descriptions are allowed after filing TM-A for Class 15, but only before examination. You can clarify or expand descriptions, for example, specifying “guitars, violins, and pianos” instead of just “musical instruments.” However, you cannot change the goods to a completely different class, such as software or music streaming services. Accurate descriptions from the start help avoid objections and delays.

Trademark Class 15 is dedicated to physical musical instruments and their accessories, providing legal protection for items like guitars, pianos, drums, and instrument parts. In contrast, Class 9 covers electronic equipment, software, and digital music recordings, while Class 41 protects music-related services such as education, training, and entertainment. The key difference lies in the type of product or service: Class 15 safeguards tangible instruments, whereas Classes 9 and 41 cover technology and services associated with music.

Yes, guitars are considered musical instruments, and Class 15 specifically covers musical instruments and related items. You can register a brand name, logo, or any distinctive mark associated with guitars under this class. This ensures that no other business in India can legally use the same or a confusingly similar mark for guitars or other musical instruments, giving your brand exclusive rights and legal protection.

Joel Dsouza

Joel Dsouza is a Chartered Accountant and compliance expert who has advised over 1,000 startups and SMEs on company registration, tax structuring, and MCA compliance. A member of ICAI and Co-Founder at RegisterKaro, Joel is committed to promoting financial literacy and simplifying India’s startup ecosystem. His deep expertise across all three levels of Finance and Portfolio Management makes him a trusted voice for entrepreneurs seeking clear, actionable guidance.

Trademark Class 15: Musical Instruments & Accessories

What is Trademark Class 15?

Who Should Choose Trademark Class 15 in India?

Key Categories in Trademark Class 15