Getting Started at the University Libraries
- To borrow items from the libraries, you need your BGSU photo ID and a current record in the library database. For more detailed information, see Borrowing, Renewing, and Requesting.
- For remote access to the online research databases, you must create a password (PIN) to activate "My Library Account". See the "About PINS/Passwords" page for instructions.
- If the University Libraries doesn't have what you need, chances are that OhioLINK does. OhioLINK is the 80+ academic (and some public) libraries that lend their resources to one another through an online requesting system. Look for the "Request this item" button in the OhioLINK catalog. For more detailed information, see OhioLINK requesting.
- We're here to assist you! If you need help using the library, can't find what you want, have an assignment and need help getting started, Ask Us! for immediate help, stop by, or contact me, Susannah Cleveland, using the information at the right.
Getting Started with Research in World Music
Click on the tabs above for some suggested readings on different topics in world music.
In the BGSU Libraries Catalog, use the following subject searches:
Ethnomusicology
Folk music
World music
Folk dance music
Cajun music
Indians of North America music
Reggae music
Gamelan music
Music [then add specific country]; e.g., Music Bali or Music Japan
NOTE: Do not use the subject world music unless you really are looking for popular musical works combining traditional rhythms from around the work with elements of jazz and rock. Subject headings are determined by the Library of Congress, and as a subject heading, world music refers to a specific type of music, not necessarily ethnic or non-western musical styles.
Finding Recordings in the BGSU Libraries Catalog
To find recordings of music from specific countries, states, or regions, click on the subject box in the BGSU Libraries Catalog. There are several terms to use depending on your desired results. To find songs or folk songs of a specific country in a specific language, enter songs [language] and country name.
Examples
Songs English England
Folk songs English United States
Songs french canada
Folk songs Korean
There also may be specific time periods added to entries, such as "20th century," or "To 1800," or other terms, such as "History and Criticism" or "discographies." If you just are looking for sound recordings, you may limit the search by clicking on the "limit this search" button and choosing "sound recording" from the material type list.
If you want to find instrumental or folk music of a particular country, you can do another subject search, typing in music [country name]
Examples
Music Japan
Folk music Ireland
Music Turkey
Folk dance music Brazil
You also may want to do a keyword search using the terms ethnic and music, limiting your search to material type sound recording.
If you want to find music or songs about a specific country or state, again search by subject, typing [country/state name] songs and music.
Examples
Ohio songs and music
Paris songs and music
Finding Video Recordings in the BGSU Libraries Catalog
To find video recordings of music from specific countries, states, or regions, click on the subject box in the BGSU Libraries Catalog. Type in music [country] and limit the search to material type audiovisuals.
Examples
Music Africa
Music China
We have a few collections of video recordings that may be useful. All are held in the Listening Center
The JVC Video Anthology of World Music and Dance. Search by title or by call number MusicVHSJVC
Dancing (PBS Series). Search by title or by call number MusicVHSHomeVisionDAN-070
Beats of the Heart. Search by title or by call number MusicVHSShanachie
Get Help!
If you need help, please call (419-372-2307), e-mail (mlsra@bgsu.edu), click on "Ask a Librarian" below to chat, or click on the "Ask Us" button to search our knowledge base.
The Music Library and Sound Recordings Archives are located on the third floor of Jerome Library. Check our hours on the University Libraries' site.
Credits
This guide was created by Morgan Rich, former Music Library Student and Circulation Supervisor.
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