scope:

This International Standard specifies a means of uniquely identifying editions of notated music. It standardizes and promotes internationally the use of numbers on such editions in order that one edition of a title or one separate component of an edition can be distinguished from all other editions or components by means of a unique International Standard Music Number. To this end, it specifies the construction of an International Standard Music Number and the location of the number on editions of notated music. This International Standard is applicable to editions of notated music. The ISMN can also be used to identify editions of notated music that are presented with other media to form an integrated whole (e.g. an edition that together with a sound recording forms a single product). The ISMN is not used, however, to identify material in other media that are issued separately, such as sound or audiovisual products (such as CDs or DVDs). For these recordings, ISO 3901 (International Standard Recording Code) or ISO 15706 (International Standard Audiovisual Number) are applicable. Neither is the ISMN used to identify the products (CDs or DVDs) themselves. For these the EAN 13 article number is applicable.