Stephen Sondheim donates invaluable papers to Library of Congress

In an important cultural contribution, the papers of Stephen Sondheim, one of the most influential figures in musical theater, were donated to the Library of Congress. This significant collection contains around 5,000 items including manuscripts, music and lyric drafts, recordings, notebooks, and scrapbooks, showcasing Sondheim's artistic evolution and creativity. The donation was initially arranged by Dr. Edward Horowitz in 1993, and Sondheim included this in his will prior to his passing in 2021. The collection features rare drafts of songs, including variations on lyrics from acclaimed works such as "I’m Still Here" from 'Follies' and "Putting It Together" from 'Sunday in the Park with George.' Notably, some materials reflect Sondheim's constant refinement of his work as he sought perfection throughout his career. The meticulous documentation also includes a spiral music book titled "Notes and Ideas," which showcases his studies while at Williams College. The library's anticipation of increased public interest in Sondheim's work is underscored by the collection's official availability starting July 1, 2025. Horowitz, who has researched Sondheim's works for over three decades, expressed surprise at the breadth of materials included in the donation. The papers survived a fire in Sondheim's home office in 1995 that almost claimed them, and though some items bear scorch marks, the donation represents a miracle in preservation. The Library of Congress, founded in 1800, is the nation's oldest federal cultural institution, housing over 100 million items, and is already home to various Broadway collection legacies. Sondheim's papers enrich its renowned archives and promise to serve as inspiration for future generations in the field of musical theater. This donation not only highlights the impact of Sondheim's work but also reinforces the Library's commitment to preserving American cultural heritage.