Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Performance Library’s hours?
Typically our office hours during the academic year are:
Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM-12:30 PM & 1:30 PM-4:00 PM
Concert Days: 8:30 AM-12:30 PM & 7:00 PM-10:00 PM
Changes in office hours are posted on the door of the library. Summer and holiday hours are generally flexible and are posted on the library door.
Where is the Performance Library located?
We are in the basement of the Jordan Hall building underneath the student lounge. (The other end of the hallway from Firestone Library.)
Why wasn’t my music in my folder for the first rehearsal?
All music for all large ensembles must be signed out in the Performance Library prior to the first rehearsal. We need to know who has each part in case of an assignment change, emergency substitutions and missing music following a performance. All of the conductors understand this policy and will expect you to have your part before the morning of the first rehearsal so that you may adequately prepare. Please note that you may be marked late if you have to sign out your music at the start of a first rehearsal.
When will my music be available to sign out?
Typically, we aim to have all parts ready to sign out by the time the assignments are posted. If this is not the case, we will post information on the orchestra board and on the orchestra web site.
Will I be fined for not returning my large ensemble music?
Yes. All music not returned immediately following a performance is subject to late fines. Lost music is subject to replacement fees. If you have lost your music, please tell the librarian immediately, so you will not accrue late fines AND replacement fees. Students who do not pay their fines are subject to having their grades withheld at the end of the term.
Can I check out parts or scores for auditions or gigs?
The short answer is no. We have a strict no-lending policy in the Performance Library. The long answer is that you may make a request for photocopies of any part that we own. Copies are $.10 a page and you may request up to 4 parts at a time. Please allow 5 days to fill each request. Full sets and scores will not be photocopied under any circumstances. You may check out full scores from Spaulding Library.
What about music for my recital?
Music can be signed out for student recitals, but the student must either have their private teacher sign out the parts for them or obtain written permission from their private teacher to have the parts signed out.
Are you the new “Russ”?
Yes. (Or Betty, or Rob, depending when you went to NEC.) My name is Melissa Steinberg and I am the new full-time Performance Librarian. I worked here at the Performance Library during the 2000-2001 school year when Russ took a sabbatical and worked at the Boston Symphony Library. I was Principal Librarian for the Virginia Symphony from 2004-2006, but I’m very glad to be back at NEC and back to my hometown. Many years from now, students will ask my replacement, “Are you the new Melissa?”
Should I really ring the bell for service? It feels like I’m being rude.
Don’t be afraid. Ring that bell! If the librarian is in the back office, ringing the bell is the only way to know that someone is at the door. Bonus points are given for good tone and resonance. However, one ring should do the trick. If the librarian is on the phone, it might take a moment to come help you.