Music

Unlock a world of music with the Music and Performing Arts Library - the largest music library in the North of England.

About the Music & Performance Library:

Since 1949 Leeds Central Library has had a Leeds Music Library providing a contemporary, cutting-edge music service and creating the ‘go to place’ for music in the city. The set lending service now boasts 3,000 orchestral sets and over 300,000 vocals sets which are available for loan to groups throughout the UK - a collection that is matched by very few others. 

The book stock has developed and now has a specialist collection of over 10,000 items with a wide range of resources for both teachers, students, researchers, and hobbyists. It houses current music periodicals and has an extensive rare back catalogue of bound journals dating back to 1800s

You can: 

  • borrow from our vast collection of printed music and books on music 

  • consult our fantastic range of music periodicals with historical back runs and the collected editions 

  • compose your own music using our computers 

  • use our collection of instruments to learn to play the piano or the drums, strum a tune on the ukulele or jam with your friends - all for free!

  • borrow and listen at home our diverse collection of CDs, including regional artists and sounds not available online

  • stream through our music streaming services: Medici TV and Naxos Music Library

  • consult our research collection of manuscripts and early Victorian printed music. Pre-1850 and rare materials are held in our strong rooms. These books are available for use in our Local and Family History library with at least one day's notice. You can make an appointment to view books by contacting us at leeds.libraries@leeds.gov.uk

  • network with regional partners learning industry and funding tips 

  • attend unique music events 

  • learn from pop up master classes 

  • see our unique archive manuscripts on display at bespoke events and exhibitions 

  • request orchestral, choral or drama sets 

Online Resources: 

Medici TV - World leading classical music channel offering access to the best of classical music. 

Naxos Music Library - Classical music available for online listening. 

Oxford Music Online - Music reference library from Oxford University Press. 

For more information about our monthly programme and events, to register a proposal, hire the space, or book a booth, contact us with your details via email: musiclibrary@leeds.gov.uk.