Recorded Sound Archives at FAU Libraries

06/15/2026

Old VHS tapes and cassette recordings transformed into woven art pieces, blending media preservation, memory, and creativity into something entirely new. 📼🧵
A fascinating look at how obsolete formats can still tell stories in unexpected ways.

woven VHS tapes transform obsolete media into a tapestry In Stories Seen and Heard (2025), Polish artist Kuba Święcicki transforms discarded VHS tapes and cassette recordings into a monumental woven installation, asking what happens when obsolete technology becomes a craft material.  Encountered...

06/12/2026

For decades, a rare recording of Harpo Marx speaking publicly sat mislabeled in an archive, until it was rediscovered. 🎙️

A fascinating reminder that archives still hold surprises waiting to be heard.

The comedian of the stage and big screen thrilled millions of Americans without ever speaking a word, leaving many to wonder what his voice sounded like

05/25/2026

🇺🇸 This Memorial Day, we’re sharing a historic recording of Stars and Stripes Forever from the Recorded Sound Archives alongside a piano roll from Ben Roth’s personal collection of piano rolls.

Experience this patriotic classic and explore how piano rolls helped bring music into homes over a century ago. 🎹

Listen on our blog:
https://rsa.fau.edu/blog/digital-access/listen-to-stars-and-stripes-this-memorial-day-weekend/

Listen to a vintage recording of “Stars and Stripes Forever” from the Recorded Sound Archives and honor Memorial Day through historic sound.

05/11/2026

Celebrating Irving Berlin’s birthday with a special piano roll performance of “Russian Lullaby.”

Written in 1927, this haunting and beautiful composition reflects the musical influences that shaped one of America’s greatest songwriters. Through the sound of the piano roll, we can experience how music was shared and enjoyed during the early 20th century.

Listen to the recording and travel back in time through sound.

In celebration of Irving Berlin’s birthday on May 11, the Recorded Sound Archives highlights “Russian Lullaby” performed on piano roll.Written by Irving Berl...

04/24/2026

Old recordings can do more than entertain, they can reconnect us. 🎶A recent article explores how gramophone music is helping dementia patients rediscover memories and emotions through familiar sound. It’s a powerful reminder of why preserving audio history matters. Click the link below to read more.

A unique form of music therapy using 78rpm gramophone records is helping people living with dementia reconnect with...

04/23/2026

Before audiobooks, Shakespeare’s works were brought to life on record—through powerful performances, dramatic readings, and spoken word.

These early recordings capture the emotion and artistry of storytelling in a way that goes beyond the page.

At the Recorded Sound Archives, voices from the past keep these timeless works alive. Link in bio to explore more🔍🎶

04/22/2026

Celebrating Earth through sound 🌎🎶 From historic bird recordings by Charles Kellogg to canary training records, explore how audio connects us to the natural world. Read more by clicking post.

Explore historic animal sound recordings from Charles Kellogg to Hartz canary records, preserving nature’s voice.

04/22/2026

Celebrating Earth through sound 🌎🎶From bird recordings by Charles Kellogg to canary training records, these early sounds capture nature in a whole new way. Tap the link in bio to listen and learn more

04/15/2026

A Chicago fan recorded over 10,000 live concerts, now streaming free online 🎧 A powerful reminder that today’s recordings become tomorrow’s history.

The music collection of a 59-year-old Chicago man who attended more than 10,000 concerts and recorded them on ...

04/09/2026

Step back in time and hear history come to life 🎶 Join Martin Fisher on April 14 at 7 PM for The Art of Archaic Recording at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum—featuring a live wax cylinder recording (no electricity!) with Kris Truelsen. Experience how sound was first preserved and why it still matters today.
👉 Click the link below for more info!

BRISTOL — The Birthplace of Country Music Museum invites the public to its April Speaker Session for a one-of-a-kind experience with musician and historian Martin Fisher on Tuesday, April 14