Anthology of Recorded Music, Inc.

Overview

Anthology of Recorded Music, Inc., is a U.S. nonprofit organization behind the prominent record label New World Records. Established in 1975, the organization was initially founded to produce a comprehensive anthology of American music, celebrating the country's bicentennial in 1976.

History

The initiative was supported by a grant from the Rockefeller Foundation. The primary goal was to create a 100-LP anthology, showcasing a wide range of American musical genres. This ambitious project was completed in 1978 and distributed to over 7,000 educational and cultural institutions worldwide, free of charge. The anthological series covered various genres, including jazz, classical, experimental, and traditional music.

Evolution

Over the years, Anthology of Recorded Music, Inc., has expanded beyond its initial objectives. The organization's name was modified from Recorded Anthology of American Music, Inc. (RAAM) in 2006 to Anthology of Recorded Music, Inc., allowing it to include works from non-American composers in its Database of Recorded American Music (DRAM) project.

Database of Recorded American Music (DRAM)

DRAM is an online resource providing streaming access to musical works from 26 independent record labels. It offers liner notes, album art, and other materials, making it an invaluable tool for students, faculty, and scholars across multiple campuses.

New World Records

New World Records, launched under Anthology of Recorded Music, Inc., has released over 400 albums featuring diverse musical genres. Notable releases include Grammy Award-winning performances such as Samuel Barber's Antony and Cleopatra and Leonard Bernstein's Candide.

Mission

Anthology of Recorded Music, Inc., is committed to documenting and disseminating the work of American composers, often overlooked by commercial recording industries. The organization dedicates its efforts to promoting artistic merit over commercial viability.

Impact

The contributions of Anthology of Recorded Music, Inc., have had a significant impact on the documentation and accessibility of American music. Its projects have enriched educational and cultural institutions by providing extensive musical resources and fostering scholarship in the field of music.