Music at the BPL: Videos

A guide to the Music Department at the Boston Public Library's Central Library in Copley Square, including resources and suggestions for searching our collections.

Alexander Street Press

Want to search all the Alexander Street Press music collections simultaneously? You can, just follow the link below.

Music & Performing Arts This link opens in a new window
Music & Performing Arts is the broadest and most comprehensive online music resource that cross-searches all of our Alexander Street Press music database subscriptions.

American Song
Classical Music Library
Contemporary World Music
Dance in Video
Garland Encyclopedia of World Music
Jazz Music Library
Opera in Video

Videos at the BPL

The BPL has a lot of videos to offer music lovers! For additional information on finding films, visit the Film and Television Guide.

Along with physical DVD's, access the streaming resources below anywhere with a valid BPL library card!

Dance in Video This link opens in a new window
Dance in Video contains 250 dance productions and documentaries by the most influential performers and companies of the 20th century. Selections cover ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, experimental, and improvisational dance, as well as forerunners of the forms and the pioneers of modern concert dance.
Opera in Video This link opens in a new window
Opera in Video contains 250 of the most important opera performances, captured on video through staged productions, interviews, and documentaries. Selections represent the world’s best performers, conductors, and opera houses and are based on a work’s importance to the operatic canon.
Hoopla Streaming Media This link opens in a new window
With Hoopla, you can borrow free digital video, music, eBooks, and audiobooks. Gain access to thousands of titles available for instant streaming or temporary download, and watch/read/listen on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. A Boston Public Library card and pin are required.

Folkstreams
A collection of documentaries exploring aspects of folkways in the United States
Open Culture's Free Documentaries Online
A curated list of documentaries available for free on various other websites.
PBS Video
Access a wide variety of episodes of PBS programs including Great Performances and Live from Lincoln Center.
Vimeo
Online hosting for videos, but with staff curation and "best bets." Often has more sophisticated content than YouTube.
YouTube
Browse channels or select "Best of YouTube Music" to see what's trending in music videos.