The Norwegian Institute of Recorded Sound is a foundation established in 1984 through an agreement made between Arne Dørumsgaard and the city of Stavanger.

The institute manages a collection of recorded music and associated items which is one of the worlds's largest private collections of its kind. The collection currently contains more than 120,000 LP records, 50,000 78 rpm records, 10,000 audio reel tapes, 5,000 video and music cassettes, 5,000 books on music, record catalogues and periodicals, as well as extensive equipment for playing and copying of recordings. The bulk of the collection is approximately 90 cubic meters or about 42 metric tonnes.

The collection is unique in its construction as its goal is to document the interpretation and performance of music in European 20th century culture through its recordings. The different parts of the collection are systematized in alphabetical order by performer. The collection has its emphasis on European vocal music from the first half of the 20th century. Norwegian music and recordings of Norwegian musicians is also well represented.