Our Story
Founded in 1975 as a Bicentennial project of the Rockefeller Foundation, Anthology of Recorded Music, Inc. operates under the label New World Records. The organization was established with the mission to produce a comprehensive anthology of American music, showcasing a diverse range of genres. The culmination of this effort was a 100-disc anthology that was distributed free of charge to nearly 7,000 educational and cultural institutions worldwide, enriching the curriculum in American music and studies.
Since its inception, New World Records has focused on preserving the rich tapestry of American musical heritage. With over 500 recordings to date, the organization has represented approximately 700 American composers, including many who have been historically underrepresented. Each year, New World Records continues to release 8-10 new titles, ensuring that the voices of these composers are heard and celebrated.
New World Records is unique in its dedication to American music, producing award-winning recordings that feature top-tier musicians and performing organizations. The organization has received Grammy nominations for twenty titles, with three prestigious wins, highlighting its commitment to excellence in music production.
In 2007, New World Records expanded its catalog by acquiring the historically significant label CRI (Composers Recordings, Inc.), digitizing and making available over 1,200 titles, including many out-of-print recordings. Through its digital subscription service, DRAM, New World Records provides scholars and students with unlimited access to its extensive catalog, furthering its mission of education and appreciation of American music.