Reference books provide overview information for a variety of topics. If you are unfamiliar with your research topic, a general reference source (ex. encyclopedia) is a great place to start!
Historical Dictionary of Modern and Contemporary Classical Music by 
The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians by 
Encyclopedia of African American Music by 
Encyclopedia of Latin American Popular Music by 
The Encyclopedia of Popular Music by 
Encyclopedia of Punk Music and Culture by Log into your MyCCP account.
Click on the Library link, under Student Quick Links, on the right.
Click on Dictionaries / Encyclopedias under Quick Links.