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Archive: September 2014 (4 Posts)

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Mahalia Jackson, Lead Belly, Paul Robeson, and Jazz: Our Newest Acquisitions

Posted by: Amanda Smith

The NLS Music Section recently acquired audio materials produced by Smithsonian Folkways. I would like to introduce and expand upon four new audio titles that are now available to our patrons. We are excited about these titles because we have added a new braille element to some of our audio. Read more about our new Smithsonian Folkways acquisitions — and our process …

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“Do You Have Music for Listening?”

Posted by: John Hanson

What else do you do with music?  Well, you can read it and write it, too.  Or learn about it, a particular piece or song or genre.  Or even analyze it. The Music Section has traditionally not provided music that is strictly for listening.  This is because such music is readily available and accessible to …

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“Away with Harmony as the Cement of my Architecture!”: Arnold Schoenberg at 140

Posted by: Katie Rodda

This Saturday, Arnold Schoenberg celebrates his 140th birthday. All those who have studied music have come across Schoenberg’s compositions in one way or another, and whether they love, despise, or are intrigued by his works, it’s undeniable that Schoenberg had an enormous impact on 20th and 21st century art music. I must admit, I have …

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We’re Not Always About Long-Haired Music; an Introduction to Popular Music Lead Sheets

Posted by: Mary Dell Jenkins

When you say the word music, people usually agree that they like it. In fact, I’ve never heard anyone say anything else; and if they didn’t like music, that would be a sad day for me.  But, music covers a lot of territory, and people have their reasons for liking or identifying with what appeals to …