On this World Environment Day, we turn the dial back to a time when voices of nature were heard and performed—live, on stage, and even on shellac. Meet Charles Kellogg, a naturalist, performer, and early environmental advocate who used his voice—literally—to raise awareness for the preservation of America’s great redwood forests.

Born in 1868 in the Sierra Nevada of California, Charles Kellogg grew up surrounded by the sights and sounds of wilderness. But he wasn’t just a lover of the outdoors—he was a living echo of it. Gifted with a vocal range unlike any other, Kellogg became famous for his astonishing ability to mimic birdsong and forest sounds with uncanny accuracy. His performances earned him the nickname “The Forest Singer.” Read More About This…

As we approach Memorial Day, we reflect on the power of music to bring people together, lift spirits, and inspire a sense of unity. The Recorded Sound Archives is home to a treasure trove of patriotic recordings pressed onto fragile 78rpm shellac discs—reminders of how music once echoed through living rooms, barracks, and dance halls during America’s most trying times.

These vintage recordings aren’t just music—they’re sonic time capsules that capture the resilience, pride, and hope of generations past. Read More About This…

Celebrating Irving Berlin’s Birthday with “Ragtime Violin” — In English, Yiddish, and on Piano Roll!

This May 11th, we’re celebrating the birthday of one of America’s most iconic songwriters: Irving Berlin (1888–1989). Born in Imperial Russia and raised on the streets of New York City’s Lower East Side, Berlin went on to write more than 1,500 songs, many of which are considered standards of the American songbook. From White Christmas to God Bless America, his music has left an enduring legacy—but long before those classics, Berlin had a knack for catchy tunes that captured the spirit of their time. Read More About This…

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…