The Ira F. Brilliant Center for Beethoven Studies is the only institution in North America devoted solely to the life, works, and accomplishments of Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827). Established in 1983, the Center officially opened at San Jose State University in September 1985 with a gala co-sponsored by the San Jose Symphony. The Center now has the largest collection of Beethoven materials outside of Europe. In addition to functioning as a research library, the Center is involved in a variety of educational programs and projects and sponsors concerts, lectures, tours, and other programs.
A real estate developer in Phoenix, Arizona named Ira F. Brilliant donated his extensive collection of 75 first editions of Beethoven’s music to San Jose State University to form the basis of a library and study center devoted to Beethoven’s music and humanitarian accomplishments. The Center’s primary mission is to “celebrate the ideals and achievements of Ludwig van Beethoven.”
The Center’s collections include original Beethoven manuscripts, documents, and materials; first editions of Beethoven’s music; art; and other ephemera, including a lock of Beethoven’s hair. (http://www.sjsu.edu/depts/beethoven/hair/hair.html)
The Ira F. Brilliant Center for Beethoven Studies
San Jose State University
One Washington Square
San Jose, CA 95192-0171
Phone: (408) 808-2058
FAX: (408) 808-2060
Email: lvb@email.sjsu.edu
http://www.sjsu.edu/depts/beethoven/
The Beethoven Center is located in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library on the campus of San Jose State University in downtown San Jose. The King Library is at 150 E. San Fernando St., on the corner of S. Fourth and San Fernando streets. Public parking is available in the 4th St. Garage across the street (at 44 S. Fourth St.), and other nearby garages and lots. Visitors may also park in the University’s Seventh Street Garage for $8 daily on a space available basis (this garage is often full when classes are in session).
Hours:
Mondays 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Tuesdays 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Wednesdays 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Thursdays 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Fridays 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturdays 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Services will be limited on Saturdays and some weekday hours. If you wish to use the research collections or request photocopies, please contact the Center at (408) 808-2058 in advance of your visit.
Category:Art
Category:History
Category:Museums
