Music recorded in September 1893
September 1893 was a time of simultaneous upheaval in social systems, ideas, and technology. On September 19, 1893, New Zealand's Governor-General, Lord Glasgow (date of birth and death unknown), assented to the Electoral Act 1893, marking a turning point for women's suffrage. From September 11 to 27 of the same month, the World's Parliament of Religions was held in conjunction with the World's Columbian Exposition, with Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902) and others taking the stage. Furthermore, on September 21, 1893, Charles E. Duryea (1861–1938) and J. Frank Duryea (1869–1967) conducted a public road test run of a gasoline-powered automobile in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Confirmed recordings this month: 0
Summary of information on recordings made in September 1893
The history of sound recording in September 1893 was notable for being featured in a wide range of contexts, from entertainment to exhibitions and business use, when a demonstration of "recording and playing back sound" was incorporated at the World's Columbian Exposition. The phonograph went beyond being an auxiliary visual exhibit and was positioned as an "experience," shaping the modern acoustic experience of visitors.
Edison Exhibit
At the World's Columbian Exposition, phonograph exhibits related to Thomas Alva Edison (1847–1931) were introduced, providing an opportunity to highlight the improved equipment as a practical tool. The exposition was still running in September 1893, and this was the time when these exhibits gave visitors a concrete image of "recording and playback."
- https://www.phonographia.com/Fairs/1893%20WCE.htm
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World%27s_Columbian_Exposition
Recording and playback as a multimedia production
Some of the entertainment and exhibits at the World's Columbian Exposition mentioned attempts to overlay recorded and played audio on visual effects, revealing the idea of using the phonograph as a performance device rather than just an "acoustic accompaniment."September 1893 was one of the midpoints of the exposition, when these interactive exhibits were shared with visitors.
- https://phonographia.com/Fairs/1893%20WCE%20REF.htm
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World%27s_Columbian_Exposition
Image of widespread use in office applications
The World's Columbian Exposition has been described as an opportunity to talk about the phonograph not only as an educational and exhibition device, but also in connection with office uses such as dictation. The exposition was in session in September 1893, creating an environment in which recording and playback technology could be promoted and understood in conjunction with the image of the "modern office."
- https://phonographia.com/Fairs/1893%20WCE%20REF.htm
- https://www.loc.gov/collections/songs-of-america/articles-and-essays/historical-topics/1893-World-Columbian-Exposition/
