Discography of American Historical Recordings: Preserving the 78rpm Era
The Discography of American Historical Recordings (DAHR) serves as a comprehensive database catalog of master recordings produced by American record companies during the 78rpm era. This specific period in audio history is defined by the use of flat disc records played at a speed of 78 revolutions per minute. By digitizing these archives, the DAHR provides the public with free audio streaming of original recordings and access to the production catalogs of the companies that shaped early American music.
The DAHR is a core component of the American Discography Project (ADP). This ambitious preservation effort is funded and operated through a partnership between the University of California, Santa Barbara, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Packard Humanities Institute.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Purpose: A database catalog of master recordings from the 78rpm era.
- Accessibility: Offers free audio streaming and access to original production catalogs.
- Partnerships: Operated by UC Santa Barbara with funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Packard Humanities Institute.
- Integration: Partnered with the Library of Congress's National Jukebox Project.
The Database Catalog and Its Sources
The DAHR catalog is meticulously constructed using materials stored by the successors of original production companies, supplemented by specialized research and catalogs compiled by experts. The database covers a vast array of labels and time periods, ensuring a detailed record of early 20th-century sound.
Major Record Labels and Collections
The catalog includes a diverse range of recordings, including:
- Victor Talking Machine Company: Includes RCA-Victor recordings made in the U.S., Central America, and South America prior to 1939, as well as leased recordings from the Gramophone Company.
- Columbia Records: Recordings produced between 1901 and 1934.
- Berliner Gramophone Company: Pressings dating from 1892 to 1900.
- Edison Records: Both Diamond Disc and Needle Type releases from 1918 to 1934.
- OKeh Records: Pressings made between 1918 and 1934.
- Zonophone Records: Popular and general series spanning 1900 to 1912.
- Decca Records: A broad range of recordings from 1934 to 1974.
- Brunswick Records: Recordings from 1916 to 1931.
- Leeds & Catlin Records: Specialized releases cataloged by researchers.
- Dust-to-Digital Foundation: The Joe Bussard Collection.
| Record Label / Collection | Time Period | Key Source/Note |
|---|---|---|
| Berliner Gramophone Company | 1892–1900 | Paul Charosh |
| Columbia Records | 1901–1934 | Brooks and Rust |
| Zonophone Records | 1900–1912 | Bryant and Sutton |
| Brunswick Records | 1916–1931 | Ross Laird |
| OKeh Records | 1918–1934 | Laird and Rust |
| Edison Records | 1918–1934 | Thomas Edison National Historical Park |
| Victor Talking Machine Co. | Pre-1939 | Sony Music / UC Santa Barbara |
| Decca Records | 1934–1974 | Michael Ruppli |
Integration with the National Jukebox
To expand the reach of these historical archives, the American Discography Project partners with the National Jukebox Project of the Library of Congress. This collaboration allows the public to access Victor Talking Machine Company recordings from 1900 to 1925, along with other materials digitized by the University of California, Santa Barbara, directly through the National Jukebox platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 78rpm era?
The 78rpm era refers to the period when flat disc records were played at a speed of 78 revolutions per minute.
Is the DAHR database free to use?
Yes, the DAHR provides access to production catalogs and original recordings via audio streaming free of charge.
Who manages the DAHR project?
It is operated by the University of California, Santa Barbara, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Packard Humanities Institute.
Which labels are included in the catalog?
The catalog includes major labels such as Victor, Columbia, Decca, Edison, OKeh, Brunswick, Zonophone, and the Berliner Gramophone Company, among others.
Where can I find the digitized Victor recordings?
Victor Talking Machine Company recordings from 1900 to 1925 are available through the National Jukebox Project of the Library of Congress.