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This research presents a review of the current practices employed when
cataloguing classical and contemporary classical music and also explores the
potential of Linked Data to share and to disseminate music metadata between
institutions. Existing literature in this area focuses on the conceptual
implementation of new cataloguing standards such as RDA and FRBR and
examines specific Linked Data projects related to music datasets. However,
little research has been conducted examining established approaches to
cataloguing, challenges faced when documenting music materials and
potential barriers to implementing change. This study surveyed methodologies
in music libraries and conducted in-depth interviews to support these findings
further. Respondents were found to be broadly positive towards the FRBR
model of representing complex music material, although many libraries are
faced with practical limitations such as budget and staffing. Linked Data
presents similar challenges, with findings demonstrating a practical potential
which may be currently beyond the scope of many music libraries.