The Capitol Records Archive consists of over 15,000 hand-written manuscripts, sketches, parts, and scores from writers and recording artists at Capitol Records from 1944-1967. Its potential as an educational tool and primary source in modern music education is far reaching; composers/arrangers, studio engineers, aspiring music producers, and performers may all find uniquely suited resources that provide a glimpse into the history of this music, its preparation, production, and legacy.
Searching the Collection
The Archive is currently housed within Music Special Collections at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. In-person appointments may be scheduled by contacting david_day@byu.edu, although specific items may be requested online for a fee.
To view a current list of archived works, including scores and parts where available, please reach out using the contact form below.
Printed Index
The archive is currently searchable via 5 volumes of PDF documents scanned from the initial inventory of the collection in the early 1970's. An interactive, online, searchable database is currently under development.
Finding Aids
Multiple spreadsheets were created by Daniel Henderson (BYU-H) as part of an ORCA grant at BYU, highlighting many of the prominent composers, arrangers, and performers featured in the collection. The aids are extremely helpful in building a larger picture of the collection as a whole.
Samples
Over 3,500 high-resolution images have been taken to date, comprising 126+ compositions from Pete Rugolo, Billy May, Nelson Riddle, and others. Transcriptions of many of the pieces have been completed, allowing for performance of these historic pieces.
Contact
For more information about the project, help accessing the collection, or to find out how to help with the Capitol Records Project, please use the contact form below, or email me directly at CharlieCarrMusic@gmail.com.