MIMESIS : A Semantic-based Approach for Poetry in Music Digital Libraries

In this position paper we discuss matters relative to the development of a semantic-based model for an on-line digital library of poetry in music. In particular, we present a general approach called MIMESIS (Multimedia Interoperable Model of poEtry and muSIc Sources). Using semantic technologies and methodological solutions, MIMESIS enables different types of users to creatively enjoy digitized cultural resources, not only in the specific case of poetry in music, but also in the general field of the performing arts. The MIMESIS approach is then applied to an existing repository, RePIM (Repertorio della Poesia Italiana in Musica 1500-1700), which represents an interesting test case for our study. Other state-of-the-art initiatives utilizing semantic Web technologies for digital collections exist, and some show some encouraging results. Yet although these projects represent an improvement over previous systems, they still fall short in terms of complexity and usability. MIMESIS is built on recent definitions of ontology for cultural heritage, such as FRBRoo (Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records object-oriented), and explicitly addresses issues of interoperability with current European initiatives.