Collection

The archive at the Arnold Schönberg Center houses one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of materials on the life and work of one composer. Throughout the almost 60 years of his artistic life, the greater part of the documentation concerning Schönberg’s oeuvre remained in his possession; after his death, his heirs devoted themselves to keeping his estate intact/in private hands. The available holdings provide a unique overview of Schönberg’s work, thought and life.

Due to donations and purchases before and after Schönberg’s death, as well as bequeathed letters and other correspondence, much material has not come down to us through his estate and is strewn over the world in museums, archives and private collections; many of these items are available as copies or scans. Schönberg’s paintings in his estate owned by his heirs, the documentation in the possession of the publisher Universal Edition and other important items have now found their permanent home at the Center.

the Center’s library is aiming at completeness with regard to documentation on publications about Schönberg in all languages. Complementing the holdings are writings on the Vienna School, Schönberg’s contemporaries and the intellectual and cultural history of the 20th century, all relating to the collection’s central purpose. Furthermore, a wide-ranging compilation of sound recordings comprehensively preserves performances of the composer’s works ranging from 1922 to the present day, while the video collection features concerts, interviews and other documentary material.

The Center’s library is open at all times during hours of operation. Appointments are necessary for viewing archival material (see the usage instructions).