Why do a subject search?

• A subject search increases the relevancy of your search results but can limit the number of results that you get back. For the best outcome, try searching by many different subjects in Orbis.

Where can I find a list of these subject headings?

• Performing a subject search in Orbis will take you to the general index of subjects based on the Library of Congress Subject Classification.

• Guides, handbooks intended for choir directors are often filed under the subject: Choirs (Music)
• Works about specific organizations can be found under the subject: Choral societies
• Works about opera, oratorio, etc. as genres can be found under their singular forms in Orbis.
• For sound recordings of particular works, it is better to search by title.

What is a subject search?

Items at the Music Library are cataloged by subject headings devised by the Library of Congress. These headings are used by most American academic libraries. The purpose of subject headings is to provide a uniform means of classifying items.

To retrieve the most relevant items, search for materials using these headings.

How do I do a subject search?

In Orbis, do a basic search. Type a subject heading (ex. "choruses") into the search box, then select "subject browse" from the drop-down menu. A list of different headings related to the subject (and number of results) will appear.

Some common subject headings are below: