How to Cite a Music Score in APA Format

A musical score is commonly associated with a film or television soundtrack, but it actually refers to any type of musical composition. American Psychological Association citation format is used in papers focusing on the social sciences. Many social science fields, particularly cultural studies, may benefit from the use of musical scores as research. APA format cites a music score according to the same rules for all music recordings. Know the recording and songwriting information to accurately cite a music score.

Instructions

    • 1

      Cite the music score in the text with the last name of the songwriter, not the name of the recording artist, and the copyright date. For example: (Williams, 1976).

    • 2

      Expand upon the in-text citation in the references list. Cite a music score that was recorded by the songwriter by listing the songwriter's name, copyright date, title, album title, medium, location of recording and the name of the label. For example: Williams, J. (1976). Star Wars Main Theme. Star Wars: A New Hope Soundtrack [CD]. Los Angeles, California: Film Record Label.

    • 3

      Cite music scores that have a different recording artist and songwriter by including the name of the recording artist and the recording date as well. The copyright date is the first date listed and the recording date is second. For example: Williams, J. (1976). Star Wars Main Theme [Recorded by London Symphony Orchestra]. Star Wars Soundtrack [CD]. London, England: Record Label. (1977).

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