The papers of Jacob Avshalomov consist of correspondence, clippings, programs, musical scores, certificates, memoir books, photographs, and publications relating mostly to his musical career, as well as those of his sons, David and Daniel, and his Russian-born father, Aaron. Also included are programs, reviews, and photographs of the Portland Junior Symphony (later the Portland Youth Philharmonic), which he led from 1954 to 1995.

Collection includes correspondence, 1919-1925, regarding Carl Denton's career as conductor for the Portland Symphony Orchestra and resignation in 1925. Also included are miscellaneous correspondence and documents relating to the orchestra, including its constitution and bylaws, circa 1922.

Oral history interview with Lawrence Leighton Smith conducted by Linda S. Dodds on May 12, 1980. Smith was a pianist and conductor for many symphonies around the country, including the Oregon Symphony from 1973 to 1980.