Collections: Principal Holdings
Paper Collection
- A unique collection of record and gramophone catalogues from around the world
- Artist Files for the majority of artists who have recorded for EMI, including general correspondence, recording sheets and contracts
- Matrix Cards of EMI recordings from 1900 to 1980 and associated Recording Ledgers
- Trade magazines from the early 20th century including “The Soundwave” and “The Gramophone”
- EMI House Journals from 1917 to date
- Small library of biographies on artists and on the history of the recording industry
- Material on non-music activities like the development of Television, Radar and CT Scanners
- Reports, accounts and board minutes from 1898 to 1930's
Recorded Music Store / Finished product store
- Extensive collection of records issued by EMI and its associated labels worldwide from 1898
- 78rpm metal masters including HMV, Columbia, Parlophone, Odeon and Fonotopia labels
Museum
- Playback devices, from phonographs and gramophones to stereograms and reel-to-reel tape players
- Extensive collection of ‘Nipperia'
- Radios and televisions from the 1930's to early 60's
- HMV domestic appliances from the 1940's and 50's, including electric shavers to irons
- Material relating to the development of sound recording, including acoustic horns, microphones and lathes
- Corporate items including trophies from inter-departmental tournaments, paintings and items from past chairmen
- Francis Barraud ‘His Master's Voice' paintings
Photographs
- Large collection of photographs covering all aspects of EMI's history
