# German Music Archive

The German Music Archive (German: Deutsches Musikarchiv, DMA) in Leipzig, is the central collection of printed and recorded music and the music-bibliographic information centre for Germany. It is a Federal agency founded in 1970, tasked with collecting all music published in the country. Publishers of printed and recorded music in Germany are required by law (since 1973) to deliver two copies of every edition as legal deposits to the archive.
The DMA constitutes a department of the German National Library, Leipzig (Deutsche Nationalbibliothek).

## History

The archive was founded in West Berlin on 1 January 1970, during the division of Germany as a department of Frankfurt am Main based Deutsche Bibliothek—the national library for West Germany. It incorporated its precursor, the Deutsche Musik-Phonothek (1961–1969), and was located (until 2010) at the Siemens-Villa in Berlin-Lankwitz.
In the process of German reunification the West German Deutsche Bibliothek and the East German Deutsche Bücherei formed one national library with two seats in Frankfurt and Leipzig. The DMA moved to Leipzig in 2010, to be housed in an extension of the Deutsche Nationalbibliothek. Construction work began in 2006 and was completed in 2011.
In July 2000, the DMA also assumed the role as repository for GEMA, Gesellschaft für musikalische Aufführungs- und mechanische Vervielfältigungsrechte, a German music copyright organization. Since then, music publishers only have to submit copies to DMA, which covers both national archiving and copyright registration. The 210,000 works of printed music previously held by GEMA were transferred to DMA.

## Collections

Access to the archive is allowed to anyone with a German National Library card.
The library spaces, designed by Gabriele Glöckler include listening booths and exhibition space with temperature control and firedoors.
Users can copy recordings from the archive, such as out of print recordings on various formats, onto CDs.
The music archive also offers music bibliographic services. A common authority file is created with personal names, corporate bodies and work titles of the music, which can be made available for research purposes and as a cataloging tool. Until 2012, the DMA controlled uniform subject title files for its own use, which would then be merged into the common authority file. In addition, the German Music Archive has set up a database of loaned musical materials, the Bonn Catalog, which continuously updates the German National Library.
The archive contributes to the Europeana Sounds project, donating over 500 works.

## The Benefits of Listening to German Music: Enhancing Language Skills and Cultural Understanding

* Language Acquisition: One of the most significant benefits of listening to German music is the improvement of your language skills. Exposure to the lyrics can help you pick up new vocabulary, understand sentence structures, and improve your pronunciation. This immersive experience can make learning the language more enjoyable and effective.
* Cultural Insight: German music reflects the culture, history, and social issues of German-speaking countries. By listening to different genres, you can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context, traditions, and values of German society. This can enrich your appreciation of the language and its speakers.
* Emotional Connection: Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions. Listening to German songs can help you connect with the feelings and experiences expressed in the lyrics. This emotional engagement can enhance your motivation to learn the language and explore more about the culture.
* Diverse Genres: German music spans a wide range of genres, from classical composers like Beethoven and Bach to contemporary pop and rock artists. This diversity allows listeners to explore different styles and find what resonates with them, making the learning process more enjoyable.
* Community and Connection: Engaging with German music can connect you with a broader community of fans and learners. Whether through concerts, online forums, or social media, you can share your passion for music and language with others, fostering friendships and networks.
* Enhanced Listening Skills: Regularly listening to music in German can improve your listening comprehension. You’ll become more attuned to the sounds and rhythms of the language, making it easier to understand spoken German in everyday situations.
* Motivation and Enjoyment: Finally, listening to music you enjoy can be a great motivational tool. It makes the process of learning a new language more fun and less daunting, encouraging you to continue your studies.