Series V: Compositions, circa 1950s-1964, bulk 1959-1962
- Scope and content:
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This series consists primarily of musical compositions written by Peter G. Davis, mostly in the form of autograph manuscript scores and recordings. Davis undertook a MA in composition at Columbia University from 1959-1962, and many of the materials in this series were likely produced during this time. This series also contains various materials (annotated scores, annotated and autographed parts, reel-to-reel tapes) relating to the 1964 performance of Davis's opera, Zoe, at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan. A number of musical genres are represented in this series in various forms, including opera (Zoe and its predecessor The Catalyst), string quartet (the String Quartet on E-flat), art song (the song cycle Shards and its predecessor Sherds, various lieder), orchestral music (Changes for orchestra), operetta (settings of two different W.S. Gilbert libretti), and cabaret (the musical revue Miss Informed). This series contains notebooks, sketches, rough drafts, fragments, lyric sheets, and correspondence relating to many of these pieces, in addition to complete manuscript scores, manuscript vocal scores, and other performing materials in Davis's hand. This series contains a significant audio component, including reel-to-reel tapes, long-playing records, and a number of cassette tapes.
Contents
Access and use
- Parent restrictions:
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All original copies of audio / moving image media are closed until reformatting. Please email rbml@columbia.edu for more information.
This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.
- Parent terms of access:
- Single photocopies may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.
- Location of this collection:
- Before you visit:
- Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
- Contact:
- rbml@library.columbia.edu