Cosmos Andrew Sarchiapone papers, circa 1860-2011, bulk 1940-2011

This series of sound recordings and born-digital material consists of 145 sound tape reels, forty sound cassettes, and two electronic records. About one-third of the material has concise descriptive labeling, but the labeling does not necessarily clearly identify the contents. However, where possible, these labels are reflected in the file titles below.

Clearly identified sound recordings have been arranged with related documentation in previous series.

Sound tape reels are often recorded and re-recorded, with descriptive labeling crossed out and written over. Some of the sound tape reels are labeled "collage," which might indicate that Cosmos was recording samples of sounds from various sources to string together. Many of the recordings appear to be of Cosmos's compositions, performances, radio and television broadcasts, as well as various sounds of the city. The label on several sound tape reels, "pier 49," a location near his residence at Westbeth, may reflect the recording of its demolition in the early 1970s.