Ira F. Brilliant Center for Beethoven Studies, Research institute and museum at San Jose State University, United States
The Ira F. Brilliant Center is a research institute and museum dedicated to collecting and studying Beethoven materials. It houses the largest collection of Beethoven documents in North America, including first editions, handwritten scores, and historic keyboards from different periods.
The center was founded in 1985 after Ira F. Brilliant donated his collection of 75 first editions and Beethoven memorabilia to San Jose State University. This founding donation established it as a major research center for Beethoven studies in North America.
The center houses a collection of over 4,000 books and publications about Beethoven, reflecting how scholars and musicians have engaged with his work across generations. Visitors can explore how his influence has shaped music history across different eras.
The center is located on the fifth floor of the Martin Luther King Library on the San Jose State University campus. Hours vary throughout the week, so visitors should confirm opening times before planning their visit.
The museum holds a lock of Beethoven's hair cut after his death, and scientific testing revealed traces of lead in it. This unusual specimen provides insight into health factors that may have affected the composer during his life.
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