Willis C. Patterson papers, 1896-2019
19.4 linear feet (in 24 boxes) — 2 oversize boxes (online) — 1 digital audio file
19.4 linear feet (in 24 boxes) — 2 oversize boxes (online) — 1 digital audio file
The Collected Works of African American Composers series (11.8 linear feet, 2 oversize boxes, and 1 digital audio file (online)) consists of topical files dated from 1896-2019. The bulk of the material in the files are art song, opera, orchestral and chamber music, and spiritual scores by African American composers. Other material in the files include correspondence, clippings, publications, and notes. Researchers interested in particular composers should consult materials in the Art Songs, Operas and Libretti, Orchestral and Chamber Music, and Spirituals subseries.
Patterson also maintained various guides that provide additional information about his own collection as well as other composers. Material in the Guides subseries consists of different kinds of lists.
4.85 linear feet — 2 oversize volumes — 182 KB (Online) — 1 oversize folder
The Organizational series (1946-2011; 1.5 linear feet and 182 KB) documents all of the routine activities required to maintain the organization. Included are meeting minutes, financial reports, awards, committee reports, promotional materials, correspondence, newsletters, and receipts. The activities of each segment of the branch are documented in detail, giving a comprehensive look at the branch as a whole. Digital materials include meeting minutes from 2004-2006.
2 linear feet — 1 oversize box — 13.7 GB (online)
11 linear feet (in 13 boxes) — 21 oversize volumes — 1 oversize folder — 1.1 GB (online)
(interview/panel discussion. broadcast 1958-1990. In the 1980s Background adopted a news journal format.)