Call Number:

04.006

Repository:

Drexel University: Archives and Special Collections

Extent:

0.6 cubic feet

Language:

English

Date:

1947-1991 (inclusive)

Abstract:

The performing arts at Drexel date back to 1892, when Drexel offered its auditorium as a rehearsal space for the Philadelphia Chorus. The Drexel Chorus was formed the next year. In 1897 Drexel formalized its choral music program by establishing a department which would be known as the Department of Evening Classes in Choral Music. The department was dissolved in 1909, but students continued to organize their own performing ensembles, including the organization of the men's and women's Glee Clubs in 1934. In 1942, Wallace D. Heaton, Jr. was appointed music director at Drexel, and over the next thirty-seven years he established the Department of Music and revitalized the choral music department. Clyde Shive joined the faculty as a professor for instrumental music and as the university organist in 1955. A student dance ensemble was established in 1978. The music department became the Department of Performing Arts when the College of Humanities and Social Sciences was founded in 1984. More recently, the department has begun to offer a major in music industry and minors in dance, music, and theater, as well as sponsoring the dance ensemble and a number of vocal and instrumental music groups.

This collection consists of the records of the Department of Performing Arts and its predecessor, the Department of Music. The collection also includes the records of the Glee Clubs, Varsity Singers and band. Included are formal group photographs; photographs taken during performances, awards ceremonies, and tours; concert and play programs; and press materials. Also included within each series are administrative files containing the bylaws and activities of these groups, as well as correspondence related to banquets, performances and other activities.

The collection is arranged into 4 series: Band, Glee Clubs, Varsity Singers, and Music Department, each containing the records created by that group. The series Music Department also includes photos, records, and programs of performances where all of the above groups participated.