When a video incorporates musical elements, this information should be incorporated into the captioning track for accessibility purposes. The Described and Captioned Media Program’s (DCMP) Captioning Key includes tips and guidance on captioning music under Sound Effects and Music. For example, music with lyrics should be introduced with the name of the artist and title in brackets, followed by the verbatim lyrics between music note symbols (♪).
Instrumental-only music should include descriptions that indicate the mood, or changes in mood, as much as possible. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) offers an example of how to address instrument-only performances in pre-recorded videos:
Descriptions such as dramatic orchestral music, drumbeat starts up, solo violin playing somber melody, military march plays are just a few examples of descriptive captions that are relevant to understanding the music.
Additional Resources:
