A Guide to Library Research in Music

Reviews / Votes

Bayne and Komara take readers through the wide breadth of music research. Those using the book can read cover to cover, use the alternative reading order suggested by the authors (moving between overview chapters in Part 1 and skill-developing chapters in Part 2), or dive into sections as needed. The work is divided into three parts. "The Short Course" breaks down the basics of research, covering library catalogs and dictionaries, the use of style manuals, and copyright. "How To" helps readers hone skills for finding information, and "Resources" "explores the logic behind the arrangement of music materials using the Library of Congress classification system." The format makes what may be an overwhelming task easy to digest, highlighting subject-specific searching techniques and resources. Like the first edition, this one doesn't disappoint, and the authors spotlight new resources available since the original was published in 2008.... Written for students at the undergraduate and graduate level, as well as for general learners, this is a necessary tool for those looking for guidance in finding music research. * Library Journal * This book is intended as a textbook for music research classes, but it could also be a valuable resource for serious music researchers. Bayne (emer., Univ. of Tennessee, Knoxville) wrote the first edition (2008), and is now joined by Komara (SUNY Potsdam). Like the first edition, the volume is divided into three parts: "The Short Course: Music Research and Writing," "How To: Discover and Use Resources," and "Resources: The Literature of Music." Each chapter starts with basics, defining what a certain type of research resource or process is and providing significant examples, and each ends with learning exercises appropriate for class use. Both print and electronic resources receive ample coverage. Notably, part 3 details the complex Library of Congress classification system for music and includes supporting appendixes. The amount of space given to this often-overlooked topic is a welcome validation of its importance to music researchers. A valuable resource for university music libraries and for public libraries with significant music collections. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty; professionals. * Choice Reviews * Pauline Shaw Bayne and Edward Komara demystify the most daunting aspects of music research in an update that remains approachable for beginning researchers. -- Misti Shaw, Head of Music Library Public Services and Outreach, Cook Music Library, Indiana University