Music manuscripts are important primary sources for conductors for performance, rehearsal, and study. In the Performing Arts Reading Room, conductors have unique opportunities to compare published editions, including out-of-print ones, to manuscripts and sketches. Music manuscripts and annotated scores may be individually cataloged or found in special collections.

Manuscripts without annotations, including fair copies and sketches, can inform conductors' artistic decisions when compared to published editions over time. Annotated music manuscripts are unique resources to examine performance practice and collaborations between conductors, composers, orchestrators, and arrangers.

Published editions annotated by conductors and performers are also available, such as conductor Andre Kostelanetz's personal music library in the Andre Kostelanetz Collection.

Use the LC Online Catalog, Music Division finding aids, Music Division digital collections, and Performing Arts Reading Room card catalog (on-site only) to explore the breadth of these holdings. Reference specialists are also available via Ask a Librarian for assistance.