CSN Seminar Series
CSN Online Roundtable: Creating Archives of Historical Recordings From Legacy Media
In an age where digital audio is the norm, countless historical recordings remain locked away in outdated formats. How do we preserve these valuable sounds for future generations? This special workshop explored the challenges and solutions of creating archives from legacy media, featuring insights from experts in the field.
This roundtable discussion dove into three key areas:
What is Legacy Media? Understanding historical audio formats and their unique challenges.
Digitization and Restoration Pipeline: An overview of the technical process—common issues, necessary hardware/software, and how to design an effective studio for restoration.
Now What? Once digitized, where do these archives go? This discussion will cover cultural ownership, sovereignty, copyright considerations, and best practices for housing and accessing these collections.
Dr. Scott Smallwood chaired the roundtable discussion. The panel included:
Tom Merklinger (SSI, University of Alberta)
Explored the challenges of working with poorly curated audio collections, emphasizing the importance of detailed metadata and cultural sensitivity—especially when handling sensitive content. Merklinger argued that proper preservation isn't just technical work; it's a commitment to cultural diversity and intellectual freedom.
Spencer Crewe (Digital Audio Studio Coordinator, MMaP Research Centre at Memorial University)
Shared insights into the technical challenges of digitizing legacy media formats while maintaining audio integrity. Crewe underscored the significance of retaining original qualities in recordings during the digitization process to facilitate future accessibility.
Jonathan Wise (Canadian Museum of History Archives)
Discussed the scope of the museum’s audiovisual archives and the challenges in merging analog and digital formats. Wise emphasized the importance of addressing intangible cultural heritage and fostering collaboration with Indigenous communities to ensure respectful repatriation of cultural artifacts.
Jane Arnold (Archive at Cape Breton University)
Discussed the role of archives in collecting and preserving cultural heritage. Arnold’s focus was on building cooperative relationships with Indigenous communities to ensure storytelling is conducted respectfully.
Marcia Ostashewski (Centre for Sound Communities, Cape Brenton University)
In discussing handling sensitive content within archival metadata, Marcia Ostashewski highlighted the significance of working alongside Mi’kmaq community members to honour Indigenous traditions.
Graham Marshall (Partnering, Engagement & Communications Officer, Parks Canada)
Graham Marshall discussed reclaiming cultural heritage through music, sharing personal narratives that stressed the vital connection between music, culture, and identity.
Learn more by viewing the roundtable below!
