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When searching the LIbrary of Congress Online Catalog for information about early American sacred music, a general understanding of the M Classification system (the method by which call numbers are assigned to collection items) can be helpful. Although printed music in the Library of Congress collection is usually classed according to the performing forces involved (e.g. string quartet, voice and piano, etc.) there are certain call numbers that specify sacred music and a smaller number distinguish music published in the United States during a particular time period. Similarly, books about music are classified according to their general subject matter, but there are a few call numbers that specify music written or published in the United States during a particular time period.
Below is a list of selected call numbers that highlight some of the instances in which sacred music published in the United States before the twentieth century has been classed together. In addition, books about some religious denominations and sacred music traditions that originated in the United States and other areas of topical interest have been included. General non-music call numbers in the BV class, which deal with the study and composition of hymn texts can be found at the top of the list.
Try browsing the Library of Congress Online Catalog by CALL NUMBERS (LC Class No.) to find related items (some example browses are included below).
Example browse: CALL NUMBERS (LC Class No.): BV301
Example browse: CALL NUMBERS (LC Class No.): ML50.6
Example browse: CALL NUMBERS (LC Class No.): ML3187
Example browse: CALL NUMBERS (LC Class No.): M1.A1
Example browse: CALL NUMBERS (LC Class No.): M2116