MUSIC PUBLISHING
GLOSSARY

International Standard Work Code (ISWC)

An 11-character alphanumeric code used to identify a unique musical composition. A song only has one ISWC, but arrangements, adaptations, and translations should receive their own unique ISWCs, as they represent new works and often have new songwriter share splits. ISWCs are issued by collection societies upon work registration. An ISWC looks like this: T-123.456.789-Z. 

Related Terms:

• Music Publishing
• Copyright Registration
• International Standard Recording Code (ISRC)

Related Articles:

• Metadata for Songwriters: Everything You Need to Know
• Seven Details Worth Getting Right When Registering Songs
• What's the Difference Between ISRCs and ISWCs?
• Help Center: ISWC

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