A reference source can be a great tool for uncovering backgrounds and contexts of topics, finding names and dates, diving into etymologies and histories of words, finding recommended readings on a topic, and more. You can think of a reference source as a pathway to other sources.
To search across a range of reference sources that we have access to, try a CLIO Articles search with the keyword/key phrase you are looking up. Limit your search results to "Reference" using the "Content Type" box. You can also check out the specialized reference sources listed below.
Offers peer-reviewed annotated bibliographies on specific topics in a growing range of subject areas. There are at least 50 specific topical bibliographies in each subject area. Each of these features an introduction to the topic. Bibliographies are browseable by subject area and keyword searchable.
Includes Grove Music Online, The Oxford Companion to Music, and The Oxford Dictionary of Music, all searchable in one place. Also has detailed subject guides on specific topics within music, each with bibliographies. Articles from specialist dictionaries such as The New Grove Dictionary of Opera and The New Grove Dictionary of Jazz, 2nd ed.