5 – Subject headings

Subject headings

The authority file for Subject headings contains all the forms, genres, and other standardized terms used in the field Subject heading (650). A record for a subject heading typically includes the standardized RISM term in English and in plural, translations or alternate terms, and a sometimes a definition or scope note. Genres and forms found outside of Western Europe or common in a particular region where there is no English equivalent are given in the local language (and in the plural when it makes linguistic sense).

New subject headings can be added while cataloging. In the record, simply enter the new subject heading and click to a different field. You then get a message that says “Confirm the insertion of a new value” which you should then click.

After you save the record, go to the authority file for subject headings and find your new heading. You can edit the subject headings you create. Do the following:

• Term: Enter the term in English and in the plural when possible. For regional music, particularly music found outside Western Europe, use the term common in the region. For languages that use non-Latin alphabets, enter the transliterated term here using the Latin alphabet.
• Alternate terms: Enter all alternate terms, each on a separate line (by pressing Enter). Here you can enter the term using other alphabet systems as well as synonyms, variations, other spellings, etc.
• Notes: Provide a short description in your cataloging language of what kind of term this is. Then feel free to also write in your native language, for the benefit of RISM contributors in your area, any description or guidelines you wish to set for the term: how to apply the term, any regional connections, references to secondary literature, etc.

As an example, see Gigues. Terms in English, French, and German are given, along with alternate spellings. The field “Notes” explains the variety of gigues that exist and when and where they occurred.

If you are working with music particular to a certain region, you can use whatever term is common in that region. A new term can be added if a similar genre is used in a different region but it is called something else.

You can also add the subject heading directly to the authority file (simply click Create in this authority file) and it will be available for immediate use.

Cataloging tips

• Records for sources can include multiple subject headings, such as if there is a specific term as well as a more general or overarching term.
• To aid users in discovery, you are also free to include the local term in foreign languages and alphabets as an Alternative title (730) if you wish.