Performers discovering new music in the library: a survey and an action plan

Abstract

Libraries contribute to a sustainable music practice ecosystem when they make new music scores more discoverable. Although composers rely on discoverability for their professional survival, libraries do a poor job of making their work available. Reducing friction in the contemporary composer-librarian relationship is difficult and will continue to be a problem requiring a multifaceted approach. Our study surveyed 139 self-identifying music performers on their preferences for discovering new music. Results indicate that many performing musicians do not even use a library to locate music. Based on survey responses, we recommend performer-friendly changes to cataloging schema, interfaces, and outreach.