Where to Find Old Sheet Music

Collecting old sheet music is a wonderful way to connect with the past. You can learn a lot about an era not only from the type of music it produced, but also from the lyrics and artwork included with old sheet music. Lyrics can often tell you more about the politics and social mores of the time in which is was written, and art work can show you what was trendy and popular. When I was an antiques dealer, I came across old sheet music often. The following are the best places to find old sheet music based on my experiences.

Auctions

Antique auctions are a great place to find old sheet music. Some auctions may specialize in old sheet music or music memorabilia. You'll find a great variety here, but prices may be high since other collectors of old sheet music will be attracted to these types of auctions. You'll be able to find better deals on old sheet music at an auction that is focused on other collectibles, such as furniture or pottery. This is because most of the people at these auctions are there for the featured items and not old sheet music. When reading auction listings, check listings that include "old paper." This refers to a multitude of printed items, including old sheet music.

Church/Organization/Estate Yard Sales

Yard sales held by churches and social organizations, such as the Lion's Club, can be a wonderful source of old sheet music. Often, these places will clean out the organization basement, which can include boxes and boxes of old paper and old sheet music. Estate sales, particularly from a home that has been occupied by the same family for years, can also be a source of inexpensive and interesting old sheet music. Think of it as a treasure hunt, and don't forget to always ask a person in charge if they have any old sheet music available.

Internet

There are several places on the internet to find old sheet music. You can post "wanted: old sheet music" listings on places such as craigslist.org or freecycle.org. The upside of this method of acquiring old sheet music is that it will be quite inexpensive, if not free. The downside is you can't control what you get and may end up with lots of old sheet music that doesn't meet your interests.Ebay is another internet source which will allow you to search for the exact kind of sheet music that you find interesting.

These are some of the best sources of old sheet music I've been able to find. Good luck on your search!