International Standard Music Numbers (ISMNs)

For information on changes that were made to the ISMN numbering system in January 2008 click here.

About ISMNs

ISMNs are an international system created in 1993 specifically for printed music publications, and are to printed music what ISBNs are to books. They were designed to rationalise the processing and handling of printed music as well as the respective bibliographic data. The Music Publishers Association is the National Agency for the dissemination of ISMNs in the UK & Eire.

Why use ISMNs?

The ISMN has many advantages for publishing houses – companies or individuals - as well as the music trade and libraries. ISMNs serve as a unique identifier for monographic publications (from the manuscript through all editorial and manufacturing processes until the book is finished); stock control; ordering; accounting and billing; handling of returns; Music in Print directories; teleordering; EPOS (Electronic Point-Of-Sale) systems; information retrieval; circulation and interlending and the national music bibliography.

How to obtain ISMNs?

Companies or individuals wishing to participate in the ISMN scheme should print and complete the ISMN Application Form, which can be downloaded at the foot of this page.

If you require a copy of this document to be sent to you by post, please contact the MPA using the details at the foot of this page.

The ISMN Users' Manual may be viewed by clicking here and should be read before signing the Agreement. The Manual gives a clear picture of how to allocate the numbers, but again, please contact the MPA if you have any queries or require a hard copy version.

On completion of the form please return the document, together with your cheque (for rates, please see the ISMN Application Form below), to the MPA (address below). Your application will be processed as quickly as possible, but if payment is not received in advance an invoice will be sent by return of post and the application confirmed once your cheque is received.

UK ISMN Agency
MPA
6th Floor, British Music House
26 Berners Street
London W1T 3LR
UK
Tel: 020 7637 4052
e-mail: catalogue@mpaonline.org.uk

Printed Music Download: 

ISMN Application Form