Phonographic discs as a historical source: analysis of the recently discovered Apollo label, made by Casa A Electrica (1913-1923)

Abstract

In order to contribute to the literature on Brazilian music discs released in the early stage of the mechanical phonographic industry (1902-1927), this article analyzes the Apollo discs. They are peculiar because they do not have identification of where they were recorded or pressed; that is probably why they went unnoticed by other researchers and had not been mentioned in the literature so far. Detailed descriptions of the discs are presented, as well as the steps taken to associate the Apollo label with Porto Alegre recording company Casa A Electrica, including comparisons with other labels of this company. Finally, the lack of identification of the manufacturer on the Apollo label is discussed. We conclude that phonographic records can be important historical sources when analyzed in detail and in a comparative way.