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Library Guide for Music

There are many music resources freely available on the web, see some useful links below. Publicly available web resources should be carefully evaluated before you use them in assignments; this includes information found on the sites listed here. Learn how to apply critical thinking when evaluating sources in the LETSfind module of the LETS tutorial. Check the copyright licence and terms for use and re-use of sheet music and other materials accessed on the web. Remember that sheet music that is in the public domain in one country may not be in another: see ICLA.ie for more information about Irish copyright law. 

Digitised sheet music and scores

Irish and Irish-interest music websites

International music websites

Find Music Research

Use the links below to find research that has been done on topics relating to music.

Doctoral Dissertations in Musicology: Find dissertations in musicology, music theory, and ethnomusicology.

Musiconn: Find research literature and materials on musicology, use Google translate to access the English version.

MusRef Bibliographies: Compilations of research devoted to narrowly defined music topics that are not covered elsewhere. 

Research Council UK Gateway to Research: Search for current and past research projects in the field of music.

SMI Music Theses Register: Lists Irish Postgraduates theses and dissertations in musicology at PhD, MLit and MA levels.

Music streaming sites

Audio Archive from Internet Archive: Recordings ranging from Grateful Dead concerts, to Old Time Radio shows to original music uploaded by users. 

BPI Digital Music Services: A full list of legitimate online music services provided by the BPI (British Phonographic Industry).

British Library Sounds Archive: Listen to a selection from the British Library’s extensive collections of unique sound recordings.

Freegal: Free music streaming service available with your public library card and pin through Libraries Ireland.

The Great 78 Project!: Collection of 78rpm records and cylinder recordings released in the early 20th century.

Spotify: One of the largest music streaming service providers, there is a free listening option available.

Women of Jazz: Stream a Playlist of 91 Recordings by Great Female Jazz Musicians.

The World Music Library: Listen to recordings of World Music including Soul, Mambo and Argentine Electro Folk.