Music Archives

Collections overview

The Music Library Archives holds materials that document contributions by individuals from the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Music to music creation, performance, education, and research. The Archives include the manuscripts, correspondence, programs, photographs, and recordings of artists such as Edward Johnson, John Beckwith, Talivaldis Kenins, Udo Kasemets, the Hart House String Quartet, Phil Nimmons, Rob McConnell, Ron Collier, and Kathleen Parlow. We also hold recordings and programs from concerts and other events at the Faculty of Music (1965 to present, predominant). To listen or view any of these concerts, please contact Becky Shaw, Music Archivist (r.shaw@utoronto.ca). Browse the Collection of of Faculty Events.

Access

To browse these collections, please see our holdings in Discover Archives.

Search Archives

Materials are available for consultation by appointment in the Olnick Rare Book Reading Room at the Music Library. Digital scanning services are available, by request. For further information, or to book an appointment, please contact Becky Shaw, Music Archivist (r.shaw@utoronto.ca).

Donations Policy

The Music Library Archives acquires, makes accessible, and preserves records created or collected by individuals associated with the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto, including materials created by faculty and staff, and materials that document their professional contributions to local, national, and international music communities.

Examples of potential materials include, but are not limited to:

  • manuscripts of compositions and arrangements
  • teaching materials, including lecture notes
  • research materials    
  • biographical information, including curriculum vitae
  • diaries and journals    
  • correspondence with colleagues and students   
  • recordings and born-digital materials   
  • programmes    
  • photographs    
  • business and administrative records of music organizations led by individuals associated with the Faculty of Music

If you are interested in, or have questions about, donating materials to the Music Library Archives, please contact Becky Shaw, Music Archivist (r.shaw@utoronto.ca).