The largest part of the Robert Shaw Papers consists of Shaw's collection of annotated musical scores. Most works in the standard repertoire are represented by multiple copies, marked up by Shaw at different points in his career. The Papers contain Shaw's extensive office files, which include files on musical topics (including specific composers and compositions); general files (which deal with Shaw's performing career as well as a wide variety of other topics); and general correspondence, including letters from many prominent musicians and other persons of note. The Papers also contain writings (including speeches and Shaw's famous letters to his choruses), photographs, programs, audio and video recordings, and various other materials.