Recorded Sound & Video

This extensive collection of music, oral history and non-music recordings complements and enriches the Library's other collections.

What's in Recorded Sound & Video Collection?

Recordings are available in a range of formats including compact discs, DVDs, cassettes and reel-to-reel tapes. Video and DVD recordings primarily support existing collections in art, music, the performing arts, Australian literature and humour.  

What's special about this collection?

All styles of western music from every period are represented in the collection along with a selection of music from other cultures. Areas covered include classical, opera, ballet, choral and experimental music as well as rock, pop, folk, ethnic and jazz. Film soundtracks and original cast musical recordings are also included in the collection. There is a strong emphasis on the works of Australian composers, artists and groups. A particular strength is the large collection of recordings by local rock bands, and the collection of 78 rpm recordings which includes some rare performances by Australian artists such as Nellie Melba. 

Our non-music recordings include book and poetry readings, plays, sound effects and oral history. Mostly dating from the 1960s onwards, the oral history collection contains over 2000 recordings on audio and video tapes. Interviews with Australians involved in the fine arts, music and the performing arts feature strongly, and include a collection of interviews with Australian jazz musicians.

How do I access material in this collection?

A selection of items from this collection are readily available in the Arts Reading Room, or are brought here from storage on request.