M-G-M Recordings Library

In August, 1985, prior to being sold to Lorimar, M-G-M donated its record library to the Institute. Over the years, the studio had a standing order to acquire every commercial record issued by all the leading labels. In addition, there were hundreds of privately cut, one-of-a-kind test discs used to audition prospective performers or sample obscure musical selections. Not only were these discs never intended for public sale, but most have not been played since they were created.

Katheryn Grayson Test Recordings

Katherine Grayson test recording with piano accompaniment, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, June 16, 1940. “I’ll See You Again” from Bittersweet by Noel Coward.

Katherine Grayson test recording with orchestra, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, July 8, 1940. “I’ll See You Again” from Bittersweet by Noel Coward.