MUSL 3239, "Music and Dance"

Places to go when you are starting research or gathering background information 

Try reference materials, encyclopedias, dictionaries, etc. to gather starter or background information on your topic. 

• Oxford Dictionary of Dance (online) 

• International Encyclopedia of dance (Online)   

• Oxford Reference: Performing Arts (online) 

Develop keywords and search terms ahead of searching the library catalog, databases, or web. This is to be strategic and to guide and find the best sources for your argument. After gathering background information from dictionaries, encyclopedias, and the web, you may have a better idea of what your search terms and keywords will be when using the library catalog and databases. 

• What is my topic? 
• What keywords/concepts standout from my research question or outline? 
• What synonyms should I consider? 
• What words may be missing and useful?
• Can I combine any words that standout to narrow or broaden my search? 

Developing a Search Strategy: 

• Do I need more background information on my topic? 
• What other information do I need? 
• What kind of sources am I required to include? (scholarly, popular, peer-reviewed, books, journal articles, etc.)
• What sources do I think I will need based on my topic and time-period? 
• Where will I go to find this information? 
• When will I be satisfied with the research I have done?

Searching by Subject Heading

You can search Vanderbilt's Library Catalog using subject headings in the "advanced search" function. For dance, subject headings that may be helpful include: 

• Music and Dance 

• Dance—Social aspects

• Dance music—history and criticism

• Etiquette--United States--History.