Describing Music Materials

We should be grateful to Smiraglia and his collaborator Jihee Beak…for undertaking the task of RDA-izing the book and realigning the rule references to conform with the RDA Toolkit as it stood at December 2015. Between them the authors have ensured that this practical ‘how-to’ manual can guide a fresh generation through the intricacies, challenges, and pleasures that constitute the art and science of music cataloguing. * CAML Review *
Describing Music Materials, 4th edition, is the long-awaited update of the authoritative guide to music cataloging written by internationally known knowledge organization expert Richard P. Smiraglia, currently a professor at the School of Information Studies, University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee. Although this edition was prepared as a supplementary textbook for a music cataloging course, it will be useful beyond that audience—to anyone seeking to broaden their knowledge of the application of instructions from RDA: Resource Description and Access to music materials…. Smiraglia does a great job of clearly explaining various RDA and musical concepts, which is expected given the history and intended audience for the book. The use of ‘real-world’ examples (with facsimile illustrations) is extremely helpful for catalogers learning to connect the information found in a resource to the instructions given in RDA. Each of the full-level examples is annotated as to the decisions made, giving references to the appropriate RDA instruction…. Describing Music Materials is recommended for students and catalogers seeking guidance in the application of RDA to music materials in all formats. * Technicalities *
Smiraglia’s indispensable guides to cataloging music have maintained a place on catalogers’ and instructors’ bookshelves for decades…. Smiraglia’s incisive commentary, including an introductory outline and concluding summary for each chapter, and explanatory text accompanying examples, is what gives the book added value for the non-specialist or novice cataloger…. In the fine tradition of previous editions, this book will be an invaluable resource for instructors and students, non-specialist and novice catalogers, and those looking for an introduction to the treatment of music in RDA. Rather more regrettably, like its earlier manifestations, its usefulness remains effectively limited to physical materials; many will want to supplement it with other aids to online resources. * Technical Services Quarterly *