An original score is considered an "autograph" score. The score is not always available digitally online. However, at the very least, you can usually find out where it is located (usually a library), which is valuable information in tracing the history of the work.
Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Use a search engine such as Google, and search for the composers name and "autograph score".
- Search IMSLP (Petrucci Library) to see if the autograph score is available. (Please keep in mind that content for this site is contributed by multiple users. You may need to verify copyright applicability.)
- Search Worldcat.org (includes holdsing for libraries worldwide), using same search strategy as above.
- Look at Maurice Hinson's Guide to the Pianist's Repertoire to see if your work is listed there. (This is an ebook. Enter your PLNU username and password whent prompted.). While it may not necessarily tell you where to find the autograph score, it may discuss facsimile editions, or editions that show the composer's markings.
If you are having difficulty with this part of the project, please contact Librarian Julie Sweeney.
