Purim, one of the most joyous and festive holidays in the Jewish calendar, commemorates the survival of the Jewish people as told in the Book of Esther. Marked by lively celebrations, costumes, and the reading of the Megillah, Purim is also deeply connected to music and performance. At the Recorded Sound Archives (RSA), we are fortunate to have a collection of rare and historic recordings that capture the spirit of this holiday.

Discover Our Purim Collection

From traditional Purim songs to theatrical performances, our collection includes recordings that bring the holiday’s energy to life. These recordings, available in full for listening, offer a window into the rich cultural and musical traditions associated with Purim. Read More About This…

As we reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we are reminded of his unwavering commitment to equality, justice, and the brotherhood of all people. Music, as a universal language, has often been a vessel for carrying his message forward, transcending barriers and uniting communities. One such remarkable work is The Gates of Justice by jazz legend Dave Brubeck.

A Vision of Brotherhood

Dave Brubeck composed The Gates of Justice in 1969, a tumultuous time in American history, following the assassination of Dr. King and amid the Civil Rights Movement. Brubeck’s work was deeply influenced by his belief in the “brotherhood of man” – a concept that resonated with Dr. King’s vision of a world where justice and equality prevail.
This dynamic piece blends jazz, classical, and spiritual elements to create a powerful statement on unity and hope. It draws from diverse traditions, incorporating Hebrew liturgy, African American spirituals, and texts from the Bible and Dr. King’s own speeches. The result is a profound musical journey that encourages reflection and inspires action. Read More About This…

Welcome Back Owls! As the spring semester begins, the Recorded Sound Archives (RSA) is buzzing with excitement! Whether you’re a returning student or new to Florida Atlantic University, we’re thrilled to welcome you to explore the RSA—a treasure trove of historic sound recordings preserved right here in the Wimberly Library.

Last year was a remarkable one for our team. We digitized countless recordings spanning genres, eras, and cultures, ensuring these invaluable pieces of history are available for generations to come. To kick off the new semester, we’re sharing some of our staff’s favorite digitization projects from the past year. Read More About This…

As we enter the sacred period of the High Holy Days, music plays a profound role in shaping the spiritual atmosphere of the synagogue. The awe-inspiring melodies of this season are steeped in centuries of tradition, prayer, and devotion. Within the Recorded Sound Archives, we are fortunate to preserve recordings from some of the most influential Great Synagogue composers whose music continues to move hearts and elevate prayers.

This post honors five legendary cantors and composers who shaped synagogue music as we know it today: Manfred Lewandowski, Herman Fleischmann, Gerson Sirota, Salomon Pinkasovitch, and Joseph Borin. Their compositions and vocal interpretations bring the timeless prayers of the High Holy Days to life, offering both a deep connection to Jewish heritage and an enriching spiritual experience. Read More About This…

From September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the rich history and cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States. This month offers a unique opportunity to explore the legacies of those who have shaped the vibrant music and culture we cherish today.

At the heart of this celebration is our collection of Latin American artists, capturing the voices and stories of iconic figures such as Desi Arnaz, Lola Flores, Chucho Martinez Gil, and Ernesto Lecuona. These remarkable artists influenced the world with their music and continue to inspire future generations. In the past, we’ve honored their contributions by creating stunning portraits that highlight their achievements, sharing both their sound and their legacy through art. Read More About This…