Steber, Eleanor - Vocalist - soprano - Elsa - Has inscription
Debut in role at Met Opera, Noc. 15, 1952
A person is shown in profile from the chest up, looking toward the upper left with one hand raised. They wear a light-colored headscarf draped around the head and shoulders, secured by a metallic crown with a central round jewel. Handwritten text in dark ink is inscribed across the lower center, and a studio mark is located in the bottom right corner.
State University of New York at Buffalo. Music Library
IN COPYRIGHT. This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s). Copyright Statement for Digitized Materials from the Music Library
Gigli, Beniamino, 1890-1957 - Vocalist - tenor - Enzo Grimaldi - Has inscription
A person stands in a three-quarter pose wearing a dark, buttoned garment and a cape with striped and jagged trim. They are positioned against a light background that shows their shadow, wearing dark boots and a small cap. The bottom portion features a blue handwritten dedication dated 1913 and a small photographer's mark in the bottom right corner.
Stevens, Risë, 1913- - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Carmen - Has inscription
A person with dark, styled hair and large hoop earrings leans against a wooden ladder in front of a plain background. They wear a dark, off-the-shoulder top and a light-colored fabric draped over their waist. A handwritten message addressed to Dr. Charles D. Perry and a signature are visible in the top left corner.
This black and white scene depicts a large-scale theatrical performance on a set inspired by ancient Egyptian architecture. Numerous people wearing tunics and headpieces are arranged across the stage, with one figure in a patterned outfit standing in the foreground. The background is composed of high walls and thick columns adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics, while some performers stand on balconies high above the stage floor.
Crain, Jon - Vocalist - tenor - Turiddu -
A person stands in a studio setting, holding a small glass while looking upward with a smile. The figure is dressed in a dark, double-breasted jacket over a light-colored collared shirt and a loosened necktie. One hand is raised holding the glass, while the other is positioned near the waist. A signature is visible in the bottom right corner of the black and white composition.
Sutherland, Joan, 1926- - Vocalist - soprano - Amina -
A person is shown from the waist up wearing a theatrical costume that includes a ruffled collar and voluminous sleeves. They wear a dark bodice decorated with silver-toned chains and medallions over a lighter garment. Their hair is styled with side curls and a fan-like headpiece featuring radiating spikes.
Kubelík, Rafael, 1914- - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A black and white portrait features a person from the chest up wearing a dark jacket and a white bow tie. The individual has dark, receding hair and faces slightly away from the camera against a plain, light background. Blue ink handwriting on the left side includes a signature and the text "Chicago 1952".
Morell, Barry - Vocalist - tenor - Rodolfo -
A black and white portrait depicts a person in mid-19th-century attire seated at a desk with their hair slicked back. The individual wears a dark, wide-lapelled coat over a white shirt with a large neck bow. One hand holds a white quill pen over a sheet of paper, while a lit candle stands in a holder to the left. A small inkwell sits on the desk to the right, and the name "Louis Mélançon" is visible in the lower right corner.
Kapell, William, 1922-1953 - Instrumentalist - piano - -
A person stands in a grassy field leaning against a rustic wooden fence with trees and rolling hills in the background. The individual is dressed in a light-colored button-up shirt and dark trousers. Handwritten ink script is present in the lower-left corner of the frame.
Teatro dell'opera (Rome, Italy) - Building - - -
Rome, Italy -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large, ornate crystal chandelier hangs from the center of a domed ceiling decorated with a mural of various figures. Below the dome, a theater balcony with rows of seating is visible behind a series of arches. Smaller chandeliers are suspended from the underside of each arch, illuminating the balcony level. The scene is presented in black and white, highlighting the architectural details and the contrast of light from the fixtures.
Labò, Flaviano - Vocalist - tenor - Rodolfo -
A person wearing a dark jacket with a large bow tie sits at a wooden table in a black and white studio setting. They hold a quill pen above papers while looking forward with their mouth open. A lit candle, an inkwell, and another quill are visible on the tabletop against a plain background.
Tassinari, Pia - Vocalist - soprano - Manon (Manon) - Has inscription
This monochrome portrait features a person with highly styled blonde hair wearing an elaborate lace-trimmed garment and several pieces of jewelry, including a necklace and multiple bracelets. The person is looking upward with their hands held in front of their chest, and a green cursive signature is visible on the left side. A photographer's mark appears in the bottom right corner against the dark clothing.
Di Stefano, Giuseppe, 1921- - Vocalist - tenor - Pinkerton - Has inscription
A person stands on a stage wearing a white military-style uniform and a peaked officer's cap. The background consists of a painted backdrop depicting hills and a stylized tree with white blossoms. A signature in dark ink is written over the central portion of the individual's uniform.
Björling, Jussi, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - tenor - Edgardo - Has inscription
A person wearing an elaborate dark tunic with intricate silver embroidery stands in a pose, looking down at a small object held in an outstretched palm. The costume includes a ruffled collar, puffed sleeves, and a sword hilt visible at the waist. Handwritten signatures appear across the lower portion of the black and white portrait.
Szell, George, 1897-1970 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
This monochrome portrait features a person wearing glasses, a pinstripe suit, and a patterned tie. One hand rests under the chin while the other holds a musical score signed with the name George Szell and the year 1955. The person is positioned against a dark background and looks away from the camera.
Arena (Verona, Italy) - Building - - -
A wide amphitheater stage is filled with hundreds of people in various costumes arranged on tiered, stone-like structures. A large sculpture of a sphinx sits at the top center of the set, overlooking a wide central staircase that descends to the main stage floor. Text in the lower right corner identifies the performance as the opera Aida at the Arena di Verona.
Assassinio nella cattedrale, Act I, scene 2a
Rossi-Lemeni, Nicola, 1920- - Vocalist - bass - Archbishop Tommaso Beckett -
Act 1, scene 2a -- P. Zuffi, scene & costumes
A large, intricately carved screen featuring various religious scenes, including a central crucifixion, serves as a backdrop on a tiered stage. Several individuals wearing long, white robes stand in a line in front of the carving. Two large, three-candle candelabras and a small lectern are positioned on the stage floor. The entire scene is framed by a tall arch and captured in black and white.
Janssen, Herbert - Vocalist - baritone - Hans Sachs - Has inscription
A person with a full beard stands in a historical costume featuring a large fur hat, a belted overcoat with fur lining, and a medallion on a chain. They are positioned against a plain background with their shadow visible, wearing dark buckled shoes. A handwritten inscription in blue ink appears on the lower left side of the portrait.
Teatro comunale (Bologna, Italy) - Building - - -
Bologna (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A black and white view shows the interior of a grand theater with multiple levels of box seating and a main floor filled with symmetrical rows of chairs. A large, dark curtain hangs across the stage, topped with an ornate emblem and decorative fabric swags. The surrounding walls and ceiling feature intricate carvings, paintings, and numerous small light fixtures.
Malcuzynski, Witold, 1914- - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
A sepia-toned studio portrait shows a person sitting behind an open grand piano. The person is dressed in a double-breasted suit jacket, a collared shirt, and a patterned tie, with their arms resting on the piano's edge. Handwritten script in the top right corner includes a signature and the date "2 November 1952." A studio mark is visible in the bottom right corner.
Nilsson, Birgit - Vocalist - soprano - Isolde - Has inscription
This black and white scene features a person performing on a stage set with a railing in the background. The individual wears an ornate, long-sleeved gown with bird-like embroidery on the chest and geometric patterns on the sleeves. Their arms are held high and their mouth is open, with a handwritten signature inscribed across the center of the dress.
Siepi, Cesare - Vocalist - bass - Padre Guardiano -
A person with wavy hair and a long beard is shown from the waist up against a plain background. They wear a white hooded robe featuring dark trim around the collar and sleeves. Their hands are positioned in front, holding a small book and a strand of light-colored beads. A signature and copyright mark are visible in the lower right corner.
Teatro Verdi di Firenze - Building - - -
Florence (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
The interior of a large performance venue features an auditorium filled with rows of empty seats. Multiple tiers of private balconies with ornate carvings line the side walls, leading toward a stage covered by a tall, dark curtain. The curtain is embellished with a central crest and white decorative patterns, while the arch above the stage displays intricate scrollwork.
This structure has a prominent ground-floor arcade with a series of uniform arches and stone columns. The upper floor contains a row of arched windows set behind a decorative stone balustrade. Overhead, several utility wires span across the open sky between the buildings.
Conner, Nadine - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
This black and white portrait shows a person from the chest up against a soft gradient background. The person has dark, wavy hair and wears a light-colored top featuring a complex lace pattern. A blue ink signature reading "Sincerely, Nadine Conner" is written over the garment, and a studio mark is visible in the bottom right corner.
Der Ring des Nibelungen. Siegfried, Act III
A black and white scene features two people standing in the center of a raised circular platform. One person wears a light-colored long dress, and the person behind them is dressed in a uniform. A vast, bright circular light fills the background, casting a glow over the stage and the central figures.
Municipal Opera Amphitheater (St. Louis)
Municipal Opera Amphitheater (Saint. Louis, Mo.) - Building - - -
Saint Louis (Mo.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
An expansive outdoor amphitheater is filled with people seated in rows of chairs, looking toward a stage in the distance. The stage is illuminated and features several people in light-colored clothing, along with props and a backdrop. Large trees and structures flank the seating area under a dark sky.
Milan (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This black and white interior displays a spacious, ornate hall featuring rows of veined marble columns with Corinthian capitals. Multiple large, lit chandeliers hang from the ceiling, their light reflecting off the highly polished floor. The surrounding walls are decorated with classical moldings, mirrors, and various entryways.
Reader's Digest article about Symphony of the Air
Reader's Digest article titled The Orchestra That Refused to Die.
This page includes an article header, body text, and an illustration of a musical ensemble. The text describes a 1954 performance at Carnegie Hall where musicians played without a conductor. The illustration depicts figures with string instruments positioned behind music stands and an unoccupied conductor's podium.
Rossi-Lemeni, Nicola, 1920- - Vocalist - bass - Mephistopheles - Has inscription
A person in theatrical attire is depicted in a black and white portrait from the chest up. The individual wears a tall top hat, a monocle, and a dark cape with a prominent collar. Handwritten script is visible in the upper right background, and a white cane handle rests against the person's torso.
Capecchi, Renato - Vocalist - baritone - Alfredo Germont - Has inscription
A person dressed in mid-19th-century formal wear stands with a light-colored top hat and a dark cane. They wear a textured coat with velvet lapels, a large black bow tie, and dark gloves that reveal a white ruffled cuff. Blue handwriting is present in the upper right corner, and a photographer's name is visible in the lower left corner.
Stock, Frederick, 1872-1942 - Conductor/Instrumentalist - violin - - Has inscription
A person sits in a high-backed chair holding a violin and bow in front of a lit fireplace. Above the fireplace hangs a framed landscape painting, and a handwritten inscription across the top of the scene reads, "With all good wishes! Frederick A. Stock." The individual is dressed in formal clothing, and a small photographer's mark is visible in the bottom left corner.
Carnegie Hall (New York, N.Y.) - Building - - -
New York (N.Y.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
Opening night, with New York Philharmonic
Several curved balconies with decorative railings are crowded with people dressed in formal attire. Light fixtures are mounted along the underside of the balcony tiers, illuminating the rows of seating. A large group of people is also visible in the floor section at the bottom of the frame.
Autori, Franco, 1903- - Conductor - - -
This black and white portrait features a person shown from the chest up, looking toward the right. The person has dark hair slicked back and wears a dark suit jacket over a light-colored collared shirt and a patterned necktie. A plain, light-colored background surrounds the subject, and a small alphanumeric code is visible in the bottom left corner.
This black and white stage set features monumental ancient Egyptian architectural elements, including large pylons with carvings and columns with lotus capitals. Two people stand on a lower tiered platform in the center foreground of the stage. Handwritten text at the bottom identifies the scene as Act IV, Scene 2 of Giuseppe Verdi's Aida at Caracalla in 1955.
Angeles, Victoria de los - Vocalist - soprano - Mimi -
A black and white portrait depicts a person with dark hair styled in rolls and ringlets. The person has dark, arched eyebrows and is looking toward the left side of the frame. They wear a plaid garment with a ruffled neckline over a light-colored underlayer.
Del Monaco, Mario, 1915- - Vocalist - tenor - Don Juan of Aragon -
A theatrical production is shown in black and white featuring numerous people in various period costumes. In the foreground, a figure stands centered while others gather around tents and stylized rock formations in the background. Several individuals hold long poles or spears, and a stack of spheres sits on the right side of the stage.
Miller, Mildred, 1924- - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Nicklausse -
Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975 - Vocalist - tenor - Hoffmann
A black and white scene from a stage production depicts numerous performers in historical costumes within a tavern-like setting. The set features large circular patterns on the walls, wooden rafters, and several tables where people are seated with mugs and pipes. A staircase is positioned on the right side of the stage where one person stands, while another individual sits at a nearby table.
Della Chiesa, Vivian, 1915 - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person in a formal, strapless gown with a full, shiny skirt. The individual has short wavy hair and is posed looking back over one shoulder. Cursive handwriting is visible across the middle, addressed to Dr. Charles D. Berry and signed.
Monteux, Pierre, 1875-1964 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
Reverse stamped: Official photograph, San Francisco Symphony Orchestra
A person in a suit and tie sits at a desk writing in an open book containing musical scores. The page includes a handwritten note addressed to Dr. Charles G. Perry and signed by Pierre Monteux. A stack of books is visible on the desk surface to the left.
Bastianini, Ettore - Vocalist - baritone - -
Cerquetti, Anita - Vocalist - soprano - Elvira
Del Monaco, Mario, 1915- - Vocalist - tenor - Ernani
A group of individuals in ornate clothing occupies a stage framed by decorative arches and a tall diamond lattice backdrop. People are positioned on a staircase to the left and in clusters across the stage floor. Several individuals hold candelabras with candles.
London, George, 1920- - Vocalist - bass-baritone - Baron Scarpia - Has inscription
A person in historical dress poses wearing a dark coat with large lace ruffles at the neck and sleeves along with a powdered wig. One hand holds a pair of decorative metal scissors while a star-shaped medal is pinned to the chest area of the coat. Handwritten text and a photographer's mark are present at the bottom of the black and white portrait.
Cerquetti, Anita - Vocalist - soprano - Elisabeth de Valois -
A large group of people in historical dress stands on a stage set featuring tall Gothic buildings and a dark central tower. Some individuals hold banners and pikes while others are clustered in the foreground or on raised platforms. A backdrop behind the structures depicts a sky with long, wispy clouds.
Dobbs, Mattiwilda - Vocalist - soprano - Gilda -
A person is positioned in a three-quarter profile from the waist up, looking upward against a light, plain background. They wear a light-colored dress with a beaded V-neckline, puffed sleeves, and a floral headpiece atop long, wavy dark hair. One hand is raised near the chest, and the scene is captured in black and white with soft lighting.
Serafin, Tullio, 1878-1968 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A monochrome portrait depicts an individual from the chest up in a side-profile view. The person has short, light-colored hair and is wearing a dark suit jacket over a light collared shirt. Handwritten text is located in the upper left corner of the frame.
Thebom, Blanche - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Dido -
Several individuals in robes and ornate headpieces are positioned on a stage with stone-like steps and an altar emitting smoke. A person in the foreground holds a long object horizontally with a lengthy train of fabric trailing down the steps. Additional figures stand in the background against a dark setting.
Windgassen, Wolfgang - Vocalist - tenor - Siegfried -
A person stands facing forward wearing a long-sleeved chainmail tunic and a wide, patterned leather belt. Their head is tilted toward the top of the frame against a textured, dark background. One hand rests on a sword hilt at their waist, and the other hand holds a curved horn-like object.
Bergonzi, Carlo - Vocalist - tenor - Canio -
A person wearing a white costume with large black pom-poms and a tall conical hat stands behind a bass drum. They hold a mallet in one raised hand and have their mouth open while looking upward. The background is a solid, light-colored surface with a cast shadow.
Vienna (Austria) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large theater or auditorium features multi-level seating tiers that have partially collapsed into a pile of rubble. Twisted metal structural beams lie across the center of the room beneath an exposed and skeletal roof framework. Sunlight filters through the gaps in the ceiling onto the wreckage below.
Valletti, Cesare - Vocalist - tenor - Count Almaviva (Barbiere di Siviglia) - Has inscription
A person wearing a dark, decorative jacket with pom-pom trim and ribbons over a high-collared shirt holds a rose between both hands. One leg is lifted, and the individual looks upward with a smile. Handwritten text is visible in the bottom left corner against a light background.
Monte Carlo (Monaco) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large, multi-story white building with ornate architectural details and tall towers stands under a clear blue sky. In the foreground, palm trees frame the building, including one prominent trunk that curves inward from the left. A green bench sits near a stone balustrade and garden greenery at the base of the structure.
Schwarzkopf, Elisabeth - Vocalist - soprano - -
This black and white portrait shows a person with light-colored, wavy hair styled back from their forehead. The individual is shown from the shoulders up, wearing a dark garment with a wide neckline and looking off-camera. A textured, blurred background surrounds the subject, and small white text is present in the lower corners.
Primrose, William, 1904- - Instrumentalist - viola - - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person in a tuxedo holding a viola and bow against a dark background. The individual has short, slicked-back hair and a mustache. The name "William Primrose" is written in cursive at the bottom of the frame.
Savarese, Ugo - Vocalist - baritone - Rigoletto -
Zeani, Virginia - Vocalist - soprano - Gilda
A black and white theatrical scene shows multiple people in elaborate historical costumes on a large stage. A massive set piece in the background features a bas-relief of a figure on horseback, framed portraits, and decorative pillars. Two central figures stand near the middle of the stage, while other performers are arranged in groups to the left and right. Text in the upper right corner indicates the setting is the Arena di Verona during the 1957 season.
Stückgold, Grete, 1895-1977 - Vocalist - soprano - -
Reverse: Prima Donna Soprano, Metropolitan Opera
A black and white portrait features a person wearing a large, textured fur wrap that covers their shoulders. The individual has wavy hair tucked under a dark, tilted hat adorned with a fur accent on one side. Their facial features include thin, arched eyebrows, dark eyes looking forward, and dark-colored lips. The background is a soft, out-of-focus grey tone.
Stokowski, Leopold, 1882-1971 - Conductor - - -
A person with light-colored, swept-back hair is shown from the chest up in a black and white portrait. They wear a dark, button-down shirt with a visible collar and one button. The individual's face is lit from one side, with their gaze directed toward the camera's right.
Simionato, Giulietta - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Dalila -
A person in a costume stands on a stage set featuring a floral archway. They wear wide-legged, pleated light-colored pants and a matching top, with a dark fabric sash draped diagonally across their body and a decorative belt. Small artificial flowers are pinned into their hair as they look upward and touch the surrounding greenery.
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Manon (Manon Lescaut) - Has inscription
A black and white portrait shows a person wearing a detailed gown with lace sleeves and a large bow on the bodice. The person has styled hair adorned with a small tiara and wears sparkling earrings and a necklace. Their hands are raised near their face, holding a small round object. Blue handwritten text is overlaid across the center of the frame.
Lewisohn Stadium (New York, N.Y.) - Building - - -
An outdoor stadium features tiered seating filled with a large crowd under a dark sky. A brightly lit colonnade with numerous arches runs along the top of the seating area. Multi-story buildings are visible in the background behind the stadium structure.
Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975 - Vocalist - tenor - Don Carlos - Has inscription
A person wearing a dark, sequined garment with a high-standing collar and white ruffled neckband is shown from the waist up. The individual has facial hair and looks toward the side while resting a hand on their hip. The name "Richard Tucker" is written in cursive in the top left corner.
Uzunov, Dimitur Todorov, 1922- - Vocalist - tenor - Canio -
A black and white portrait features a person from the chest up against a neutral background. The individual has dark, wavy hair and makeup around the eyes and eyebrows while holding a large, white, ruffled costume adorned with three prominent black pompoms. A signature is visible in the lower-left corner of the frame.
Teatro Colón (Buenos Aires, Argentina) - Building - - -
Buenos Aires (Argentina) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A black and white view shows a large crowd of people in formal wear seated in a grand, multi-tiered auditorium. Several levels of curved balconies lined with decorative moldings and lights rise above a densely packed main floor. People fill the seats on all levels, and music stands are visible at the very bottom edge.
Edelmann, Otto - Vocalist - bass - Wanderer - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up, wearing a dark garment and a floppy dark hat. They have light-colored hair and a short, light-colored beard, with heavy makeup applied to their face. One side of the face is heavily shadowed, while the other is brightly lit. A blue ink signature is written over the lower left portion of the subject.
Alva, Luigi - Vocalist - tenor - Ferrando (Cosi fan tutte) -
Calabrese, Franco - Vocalist - bass - Don Alfonso
Merriman, Nan - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Dorabella
Panerai, Rolando - Vocalist - baritone - Guglielmo
Sciutti, Graziella - Vocalist - soprano - Despina
Schwarzkopf, Elisabeth - Vocalist - soprano - Fiordiligi
In Piccola Scala -- Final scene -- Guido Cantelli, producer
Six individuals dressed in elaborate historical garments are arranged in a line across a theater stage. An arched proscenium with scrolling designs and small perimeter lights frames the scene. The backdrop features architectural elements including pillars, arches, and several lit candelabras.
An orchestra sits on a stage in a highly decorated concert hall with a large pipe organ mounted on the back wall. Spectators fill seating areas behind and to the sides of the stage. High ceilings, large hanging lamps, and architectural details like arched doorways and name plaques are visible throughout the space. Text at the bottom of the frame reads "CONCERTGEBOUWORKEST AMSTERDAM."
Photex - J. W. Verhoef (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
Irene Dalis as Brangane in Tristan und Isolde
Dalis, Irene - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Brangane -
This black and white portrait features a person dressed in a detailed costume, looking toward the side. They wear a flat, cylindrical hat on top of a fabric wrap that covers the head and neck. The main garment has a dark V-shaped collar and a pattern of teardrop-shaped jewels across the chest. A sash with decorative trim rests on one shoulder against a plain background.
Wildermann, William - Vocalist - bass - Hunding - Has inscription
A black and white portrait displays a person in a costume featuring a helmet with two large, pointed horns. The individual has long dark hair and a beard, and wears a thick, coarse-textured garment. Handwritten text is inscribed across the top, and a small logo appears in the bottom right corner.
Ritchard, Cyril, 1897-1977 - Vocalist - baritone - Don Andres Viceroy of Peru -
Act 2: The Viceroy joins the ballerina in the Royal Court Ballet
Multiple dancers in tutus and feathered headpieces perform on an elaborately decorated stage. Some individuals lift others into the air while a central pair poses, with one person kneeling and the other standing. The backdrop features painted scenes, chandeliers, and decorative pillars, with additional figures in formal attire standing in the background.
Simionato, Giulietta - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Amneris -
Reverse: Her first Amneris at the Met on Feb. 18
A person in an elaborate costume is shown from the chest up against a dark background. They wear a metallic headdress with hanging elements and a light-colored garment with beaded detailing. One hand is placed on their chest, displaying an intricate hand harness that connects finger rings to a thick wrist bracelet with chains. A signature and the text "MEX" are visible in the lower center of the frame.
Guarrera, Frank, 1923- - Vocalist - baritone - Dr. Falke -
A person is depicted from the chest up wearing formal attire, white gloves, and a dark cape with a light-colored lining. They have dark curly hair and a mustache, and are holding a business card with the text "DR. FRITZ FALKE BALLMASTER". The black and white portrait shows the individual winking against a neutral background.
Arena di Verona - first opera performance in arena
Verona, Italy -- Buildings, structures, etc.
Act 1 -- First performance in the Arena to celebrate centenary of G. Verdi -- Birth of open-air opera seasons in the world
Four ornate columns with papyrus-shaped capitals and lintels featuring hieroglyphics are positioned on a raised wooden stage. Behind these columns, a vast crowd fills the tiered seating of a large open-air arena. A central archway is visible in the background, and several people are scattered across the arena floor and stage area.
Gerhard Pechner as the Sheriff in Martha
Pechner, Gerhard - Vocalist - baritone - Sheriff -
A person stands against a light background wearing a powdered wig, a tricorne hat with a feather, and round glasses. Their attire includes a black robe over a floral-patterned vest, a white shirt, and a dark necktie. One hand grips a cane with a decorative handle while the other points outward.
Vinay, Ramon - Vocalist - tenor/baritone - Tristan - Has inscription
A black and white portrait shows a person dressed in a historical warrior costume featuring a crested helmet, chainmail sleeves, and a studded tunic. The person holds a sword across their waist while wearing a draped cape. Handwritten ink text is visible on the right side, and a shadow of the person is cast against a plain background.
Björling, Jussi, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - tenor - Manrico -
Rigal, Delia - Vocalist - soprano - Leonora
A cast of people in period clothing, including robes and armor, is positioned across a theatrical stage set with massive stone arches and tall windows. Several individuals in light-colored robes stand to the left, while a line of people in patterned tunics and hose stands on the right. In the center foreground, two figures stand near a raised platform while a larger crowd gathers behind them.
Kirov Academic Theater of Opera & Ballet
Leningradskii gosudarstvennyi akademicheskii teatr dramy imeni A.S. Pushkina - Building - - -
Leningrad (R.S.F.S.R.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
Thirty-first Anniversary of the Great October Soviet Revolution -- View of boxes
Several levels of ornate theater balconies are filled with an audience in this black and white scene. The balconies feature intricate carvings and moldings along their front panels. People sit in rows facing toward an unseen stage, while bright light fixtures spaced along the tiers create glowing flares.
Muzio, Claudia, 1889-1936 - Vocalist - soprano - Loreley -
This monochrome portrait shows a person from the chest up against a neutral background. They wear a leafy crown over dark, curly hair and a white, draped garment. A small decorative ornament is visible on the shoulder of the clothing, and a signature appears in the bottom-right corner.
Maria Callas with Athens State Orchestra
Callas, Maria, 1923-1977 - Vocalist - soprano - -
Phestival Athenon. Orchestra - Ensemble - - -
This black and white scene features a large orchestra, a conductor, and a soloist performing on a wooden stage. Musicians in white jackets sit in rows with various instruments, including violins, cellos, and brass. A dense audience is seated in tiered sections in the background.
Rigal, Delia - Vocalist - soprano - Elisabeth de Valois -
A person wearing a high-collared gown kneels in front of a stone tomb decorated with carved figures. The setting features dark Gothic arches and columns with a large shadow projected onto the back wall. Several tall candles stand near the tomb, and a bright light is visible through an opening on the right.
Steber, Eleanor - Vocalist - soprano - Arabella -
A person sits in a wide, full-skirted gown with an off-the-shoulder neckline featuring fluffy trim. The skirt is embellished with multiple rows of circular, textured accents, and the person wears long white gloves while holding a small fan. The individual's hair is styled in curls with decorative floral elements, and they are positioned on a dark chair against a light wall.
Assassinio nella cattedrale, Act II, scene 2a
A wide stage contains a large structure with a central recessed archway and three panels depicting carved figures. A broad staircase leads up to this structure, where multiple figures in long, dark garments are positioned in groups and individually. The scene is framed by a large arch and set against a light-colored backdrop with cloud-like patterns.
Carturan, Gabriella - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Feodor -
Rossi-Lemeni, Nicola, 1920- - Vocalist - bass - Boris Godunov
Act 4, scene 1 -- Antonio Votto, conductor
A high-angle view shows two people in ornate, patterned historical clothing on a stage set resembling a royal chamber. A large chandelier with many lit candles hangs from the ceiling, and a throne is situated on a raised platform in the background. One person stands with arms outstretched while the other stands behind them near a lone chair and a table covered in dark fabric. A white signature is written across the center of the black and white frame.
A person with dark hair and a beard is captured from the chest up in black and white. They wear a dark, high-collared garment featuring a large round pin at the neck and hold one hand across their chest. Their eyes are wide as they look toward the right side of the frame against a blurred background of architectural columns and statues.
Berry, Walter - Vocalist - bass-baritone - Lescaut (Manon Lescaut) - Has inscription
A person wearing a dark top hat and a striped jacket is shown in a black and white studio portrait. The individual has dark arched eyebrows and is looking directly at the camera. Handwritten text in ink is visible across the subject's clothing, and a logo is present in the bottom left corner.
Renata Scotto as Micaela with Giuseppe Di Stefano as Don Jose
Di Stefano, Giuseppe, 1921- - Vocalist - tenor - Don Jose -
Scott, Norman - Vocalist - bass - Micaela
One person in a dark military-style uniform with a light sash sits on a stool, facing a standing person wearing a light blouse and long dark skirt. The standing person has one arm extended and eyes closed. The background consists of a stage set with stairs and vertical pleated drapes.
Program notes regarding conductor Andre Cluytens
A monochromatic clipping features a bold headline and a descriptive paragraph on a white background. The headline at the top left reads "Andre Cluytens," followed by text detailing a debut with the Vienna Philharmonic and various professional musical roles held in France. Dark, solid rectangular shapes are visible at the top of the frame.
Kyiivskyii derzhavnyi akademichnyi teatr opery ta baletu URSR im. T.H. Shevchenka - Building - - -
Kiev (Ukraine) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A multi-story, classically styled building features a prominent central arched entrance and a large domed roof topped with sculptures. Smaller arched windows and doorways line the facade, which is decorated with intricate stone carvings. Several vintage cars are parked or moving on the street in front of the building near evergreen trees and various people.
Raisa, Rosa, 1893-1963 - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
This monochrome photograph shows a person in a detailed costume standing in a dimly lit interior next to a draped statue on a pedestal. The individual wears a feathered hat, a dark coat with large lace-trimmed sleeves, and a long gown with a train extending across the floor. They carry a large bouquet of dark flowers and hold a tall staff. Blue cursive handwriting, including a signature, is inscribed across the lower portion of the scene.
Baccaloni, Salvatore, 1900-1969 - Vocalist - bass - Bartolo (Barbiere di Siviglia) - Has inscription
A person stands wearing an ornate, patterned frock coat over a matching waistcoat and knee breeches, complemented by a powdered wig. They hold a monocle on a chain to one eye while their other hand rests on their hip. Dark, cursive handwriting is inscribed across the lower half of the subject's body and the background.
Gobbi, Tito - Vocalist - baritone - Simon Boccanegra -
Mazzoli, Ferruccio - Vocalist - bass - Jacopo Fiesco
Roberti, Margherita - Vocalist - - Amelia Grimaldi
Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975 - Vocalist - tenor - Gabrielle Adorno
Act 1, scene 2 -- Gianandrea Gavazzeni, conductor
A group of people in medieval-style clothing stands on a tiered stage in front of a tall backdrop decorated with large murals of a city and a mounted rider. A central person in a light-colored gown stands before a small throne while others in tunics and cloaks are grouped on either side. Tall, gothic-style windows and hanging fabric pieces are visible in the background under high-contrast lighting.
Eight figures wearing robes and tunics are positioned on a dark, circular stage floor. The backdrop is composed of large, vertical panels with a rough, stone-like texture that rise to varying heights. Lighting from above highlights the figures and the lower portions of the textured wall structures.
Valdengo, Giuseppe, 1914- - Vocalist - baritone - - Has inscription
A black and white portrait depicts a person with short dark hair wearing a dark suit jacket, a striped shirt, and a patterned tie. Hands are clasped in the bottom foreground against a shaded background. The upper right corner contains a handwritten signature and date, while the lower left corner displays studio text.
Duo harpsichordists, Philip Manuel and Gavin Williamson
Manuel, Philip - Instrumentalist - harpsichord - -
Williamson, Gavin - Instrumentalist - harpsichord -
A black and white scene shows two people positioned near two large keyboard instruments. One person in the foreground has their hands on the keys of a double-manual instrument, while the other person sits on a bench in the background. The instruments are arranged with their lids open in a room with horizontal window blinds.
Oliver Smith's sketch for set of Martha, Act III
A rural outdoor setting is shown in a black and white sketch, featuring thatched buildings and various wooden structures. A large tent with tall poles stands in the center background, flanked by several small booths, haystacks, and carts. Large trees with dense foliage frame the composition on either side, with rolling hills and clouds visible in the distance.
Defauw, Désiré, 1885-1960 - Conductor - - -
Signed, handwritten letter from Desire Defauw
A handwritten letter in blue cursive ink is written on aged, off-white paper. The top right corner contains a Gary, Indiana address and the date March 26, 1955. The text expresses thanks for a letter, mentions a signed photograph, and includes a postscript regarding a performance with the Northwestern University Orchestra and a request for specific photo copies.
Thelma Votipka as Marianne in Rosenkavalier
Votipka, Thelma - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Marianne -
A person is shown from the waist up wearing a light-colored dress with tiered ruffles and lace detailing. The individual's hair is styled in curls and accented with a dark bow on top. One hand is positioned near the face, and blue handwriting is inscribed diagonally across the torso.
Martinelli, Giovanni, 1885-1969 - Vocalist - tenor - - Has inscription
This close-up portrait shows a person with voluminous wavy hair and prominent dark eyebrows. The lighting creates high contrast, casting the right side of the face into deep shadow. A handwritten message in cursive ink is visible on the right, addressed to Prof. Charles D. Perry, signed by G. Martinelli, and dated April 1956.
Borkh, Inge - Vocalist - soprano - Lady Macbeth -
A person wearing a regal gown, ornate belt, and headpiece stands on wide, tiered steps. A tall, textured wall rises behind them, featuring a faint grid pattern near the top. The scene is depicted in black and white with dramatic lighting that highlights the figure and the surface of the stairs.
This black and white scene features a group of performers on a low, circular platform. Most of the performers wear long, light-colored flowing garments, while one central figure wears a shorter tunic with arms outstretched. Behind the group, a massive, curved wall with a mottled, textured surface extends upward and fills the majority of the background.
Guarrera, Frank, 1923- - Vocalist - baritone - Count Almaviva (Nozze di Figaro) - Has inscription
A person in a white powdered wig and floral-patterned historical clothing looks toward the side. The costume features lace-trimmed lapels and a cravat with a round brooch, while one hand holds a piece of lace fabric. A signature is written in the upper left corner, and printed text is visible at the bottom.
Istomin, Marta Casals - Instrumentalist - violoncello - - Has inscription
A person sits on a bench and plays a cello with a bow. The individual is positioned in front of an ornate dark wood cabinet and wears a light-colored short-sleeved garment. A signature appears in the bottom right corner of the frame.