ISMN
The EAN-13-based identification number for printed music — scores, sheet music, and parts.
ISMN Specification
| Character set | Digits 0-9 only |
| Data length | Exactly 13 digits (979-0 prefix + 8 data digits + Mod 10 check) |
| Check digit | Mandatory Mod 10 check digit |
| Density | Same as EAN-13 |
| Module width (X-dimension) | Nominal 0.33 mm X at 100% magnification |
| Print ratio | Variable-width bars and spaces (EAN structure) |
| Magnification | 80%-200% of nominal |
| Quiet zone | 11X left / 7X right |
| Standard | ISO 10957 (numbering); GS1 General Specifications (symbol) |
| Origin | International ISMN Agency (Berlin); EAN-13 carrier since 2008, 1993 |
| Sample data | 979-0-2605-3211-3 |
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What Is ISMN?
The ISMN (International Standard Music Number, ISO 10957) identifies notated music publications — full scores, vocal scores, individual parts, and anthologies. Since 2008 new ISMNs are 13-digit numbers beginning with 979-0, structured like an EAN and printed as an EAN-13 barcode on the cover. The final digit is the standard Mod 10 check digit.
Each physically distinct edition of a work gets its own ISMN: the full score, the study score, and each instrumental part are separate numbers, which is precisely what distinguishes the ISMN system from musical-work identifiers (like ISWC, which identifies the abstract composition). Publishers, music retailers, libraries, and rights organizations use it for ordering, cataloging, and sales tracking across the sheet-music supply chain.
Common Applications
- Sheet music and score publishing identification
- Music retail and library cataloging
- Rights and distribution tracking for printed music
Related Barcode Types
The book trade's EAN-13 — an ISBN-13 product number, usually with a 5-digit price add-on.
The EAN-13-based identification number for serials — journals, magazines, and newspapers — with a 2-digit issue add-on.
The 13-digit retail point-of-sale barcode used on consumer products worldwide outside North America.
ISMN FAQ
What is the difference between ISMN and ISBN?
They identify different publications. An ISBN marks text books; an ISMN marks notated music (scores and parts). A book about music gets an ISBN; a printed symphony score gets an ISMN. Both now live in EAN-13 barcodes — ISMN in the reserved 979-0 range, ISBN in 978/979 ranges.
Does every part in a set need its own ISMN?
Yes — each separately available printed component (score, violin part, choral leaflet) carries its own ISMN, and a set sold as one item may additionally carry a set-level ISMN. This granularity is what lets music shops order exactly the parts a customer needs.