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…
When it comes to blending the spirit of Chanukah with the soulful sounds of jazz, Kenny Ellis shines brightly. His album, Hanukkah Swings, is a festive treat that reinvents traditional Chanukah melodies with a toe-tapping, swing-inspired twist.
Ellis, a talented cantor and performer, brings a joyful exuberance to the album, making it a perfect soundtrack for the Festival of Lights. Tracks like “Swingin’ Dreidel” and “Chanukah Swings” showcase his ability to infuse Jewish holiday classics with the lively, improvisational spirit of jazz. The result is a collection that feels both timeless and refreshingly original.Read More About This…
The holidays bring with them a surge of nostalgia, warmth, and joy—and nothing embodies the festive spirit quite like music. At the Recorded Sound Archives (RSA), we couldn’t resist the charm of holiday melodies as we embarked on a delightful journey to celebrate the season through music.
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