Simionato, Giulietta - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Amneris - Has inscription
This black-and-white scene features a person in a long pleated skirt and a dark hooded cape with white trim. The individual stands in front of a textured wall decorated with raised carvings, including a large vessel and symbols resembling hieroglyphs. Both hands touch the surface of a carved panel as the person looks toward the camera.
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
Vinay, Ramon - Vocalist - tenor/baritone - Tristan -
A person with short, dark curly hair and a small goatee looks toward the right in this black and white portrait. They wear dark theatrical makeup on the eyes and eyebrows. The person is dressed in a dark, high-collared garment that features light-colored lacing at the center of the chest. The background is a simple gradient.
Maréchal, Maurice, 1892-1964 - Instrumentalist - violoncello - -
A person with short hair and a mustache is shown in profile holding a cello. They wear a textured suit jacket, a collared shirt, and a patterned tie. The scroll and neck of the instrument are visible in the foreground against a dark, textured background.
War Memorial Opera House (San Francisco, Calif.) - Building - - -
San Francisco (Calif.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large gathering of individuals in formal clothing fills a spacious hall lined with tall fluted columns. The space features a high coffered ceiling and is illuminated by a large central chandelier and several wall lamps. A balcony is visible at the far end of the hall overlooking the crowd below.
Numerous people are positioned across tiered platforms on a stage. A large dark circle with a glowing white border occupies the background, while a tall, abstract hourglass-shaped sculpture stands on the left. The crowd consists of some figures in athletic uniforms and others in casual attire, with one person in a uniform standing separately near the sculpture.
Penno, Gino - Vocalist - tenor - Manrico - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up wearing a costume with dark sleeves and light-colored chevron patterns. The individual has dark hair and looks upward and to the side against a neutral background. A signature is written on the right side, and a photographer's mark is in the bottom left corner.
Cantelli, Guido - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A person with dark hair sits behind a desk with an open book of musical scores. They wear a textured blazer, a white collared shirt, and a striped tie. Blue handwritten text and a signature are inscribed across the person's jacket and the pages of the music book.
Del Monaco, Mario, 1915- - Vocalist - tenor - Canio - Has inscription
Signed: New York, 1954 -- Reverse stamped: La Foto Cine, Treviso
This black and white portrait features a person with elaborate, wavy hair and dark, emphasized eyebrows looking slightly upward. A large, ruffled white fabric garment surrounds their neck and shoulders. Handwritten blue ink at the bottom includes a signature and the text "New York 1954".
Barbieri, Fedora - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - - Has inscription
A person is shown in profile wearing a dark, lace-trimmed veil and a headpiece adorned with a large rose. The face is turned downward, with a small circular mark visible on the forehead. Text at the bottom identifies the subject as Fedora Barbieri in "Carmen," and a signature is written in the upper left corner.
Oncina, Juan, 1925- - Vocalist - tenor - Count Ory -
A black and white scene features a large ensemble of performers on a stage dressed in historical costumes. The painted backdrop depicts a medieval-style castle on the left, rolling hills in the distance, and a cloudy sky. Performers are positioned across the stage in various arrangements, with some standing in groups and several others kneeling on the floor.
Edelmann, Otto - Vocalist - bass - Baron Ochs -
A person wears a long patterned coat over a buttoned vest, accented by a white jabot and lace-trimmed cuffs. They are positioned in the foreground while another individual in a bonnet and long dress stands in the background. The setting includes architectural elements such as a decorative lattice railing and steps.
Warren, Leonard, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - baritone - Rigoletto - Has inscription
Act 3: Rigoletto (r.) reviles the courtiers
Multiple people in ornate historical attire are positioned across a theatrical stage featuring a large backdrop of arched doorways and classical columns. The set includes a painted vaulted ceiling and draped valances at the top, with various pieces of furniture like benches and tables scattered on the floor. A signature is written across the center of the background, and a photographer's credit is visible in the bottom right corner.
Prinzregententheater (Bayerische Staatsoper)
Prinzregententheater Munchen - Building - - -
Munich (Germany) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
The front facade of a building inscribed with "DER DEUTSCHEN KUNST" features several statues along its roofline and people gathered on a balcony. Light shines from the windows and the ground-floor entrance where several figures stand near columns. A blurred flag is visible on the left side of the dark exterior.
Rolando Panerai in Musorgsky's The Fair at Sorochintsi
Panerai, Rolando - Vocalist - baritone - -
A person with dark hair and a large mustache wears theatrical makeup and a light-colored tunic. They stand behind a wooden fence among oversized prop flowers, holding a straw hat and the stem of one flower. The black and white scene includes a dark, painted backdrop.
Silveri, Paolo - Vocalist - baritone - Guillaume Tell - Has inscription
A person appears from the shoulders up, looking downward and toward the left of the frame. The individual has thick, wavy hair and a full beard with a mustache. A handwritten inscription in blue ink is visible on the lower right, signed "Paolo Silveri" and dated 1954.
Gedda, Nicolai - Vocalist - tenor - Alfredo Germont -
A person with dark wavy hair and light-colored eyes is depicted from the shoulders up against a plain background. They wear a dark jacket, a white bow tie, and a white shirt with a ruffled front. The individual's eyes are lined with dark makeup, and their gaze is directed upwards and to the side.
Casals, Pablo, 1876-1973 - Conductor/Instrumentalist - violoncello - - Has inscription
This black and white scene shows a musical ensemble and conductor during a performance or rehearsal. A person in a suit and glasses stands behind a music stand, while other performers play a flute and string instruments. A prominent music stand in the lower right corner displays sheet music signed with the name Pau Casals.
Stevens, Risë, 1913- - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Orfeo - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person dressed in a tunic with Greek key trim and a flowing cape, standing next to a fluted white pillar. The pillar displays vertical handwritten script, and the individual's face is turned toward the viewer. A dark background provides contrast to the person and the architectural element.
Sereni, Mario - Vocalist - baritone - Alfredo Germont -
A person stands in a full-length pose wearing a dark coat, light-colored cravat, and gloves. They hold a thin walking cane in one hand and a top hat in the other. The background consists of a plain wall and a tiled floor with a geometric border.
Bernstein, Leonard, 1918- - Conductor - - -
Reverse: Guest conductor 1956-1957, New York Philharmonic
A person is shown in a black and white profile view from the shoulders up against a dark background. The individual has dark, styled hair and is wearing a textured jacket, a white shirt, and a solid tie. They are looking downward and away from the camera.
Di Stefano, Giuseppe, 1921- - Vocalist - tenor - -
Petrella, Clara, 1914-1987 - Vocalist - soprano - Adriana
A theater stage features a detailed interior room with high ceilings, decorative wall moldings, and large arched windows. Two people are positioned in the center, one standing in a dark uniform and another seated in a white dress. The set includes period furniture such as upholstered chairs and a small side table holding a candelabra.
Luboshutz, Pierre, 1891-1971 - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
Nemenoff, Genia - Instrumentalist - piano - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features two people standing side-by-side against a plain background. The person on the left wears a suit, vest, and patterned tie with one hand tucked into a trouser pocket, while the person on the right wears a dark, long-sleeved dress with arms crossed. Handwritten inscriptions in ink are visible on the background, including signatures and a note dated Feb 1953. Both individuals look forward toward the camera.
Orchestra Hall (Chicago, Ill.) - Building - - -
Chicago (Ill.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This black and white view shows the multi-story facade of Orchestra Hall in Chicago, featuring three large arched windows on the second floor and five rows of rectangular windows above. A frieze displays the names of classical composers, and a stone balustrade lines the roof. At street level, striped awnings hang over entrances where several figures stand on the sidewalk.
Jurinac, Sena, 1921- - Vocalist - soprano - Octavian -
A person stands centered in a black and white scene wearing an eighteenth-century style frock coat, lace ruffles, and knee breeches while holding a rose. Behind them is a large multi-paned window to one side and a decorative pillar with floral patterns to the other. The floor beneath them has a large ornate scrollwork design.
Malko, Nicolai, 1883-1961 - Conductor - - -
A person in formal attire poses with a raised conductor's baton. The individual wears a dark pinstriped suit and glasses, with one hand lifted and the other held near the chest. The background features a wall decorated with large, stylized musical notes and lines.
Symphony of the Air, Leonard Bernstein conductor, Carnegie Hall
Bernstein, Leonard, 1918- - Conductor - -
This black and white scene displays an orchestra arranged in rows across a wide stage with a conductor on a podium. Musicians in formal attire play a variety of instruments, including strings, brass, and a grand piano. The stage is surrounded by high, ornate walls and large curtains on the sides.
Fiedler, Arthur, 1894-1979 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
Signed: Feb. 17, 1959 -- Actual photograph in Cont. 29 (Oversized)
This black and white portrait features a person with short hair and a mustache dressed in a patterned suit jacket, collared shirt, and dark tie. They are positioned in front of a window and looking down at an open book of musical notation. At the bottom of the frame is a white margin containing handwritten text and a signature dated Feb. 17, 1959.
Matacic, Lovro von - Conductor - - - Has inscription
This black and white portrait shows a person from the chest up, wearing a formal suit jacket, a collared shirt, and a dark necktie. The individual has short, dark hair slicked back and is looking down and away from the camera. A handwritten signature is visible on the right side of the composition.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus, with Parthenon in background
Odeon of Herodes Atticus (Athens, Greece) - Building - - -
Athens (Greece) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
Ancient stone ruins are illuminated against a dark night sky on a hillside. The Parthenon sits at the highest point of the hill, while the curved walls and arches of the Odeon of Herodes Atticus are lit in the foreground. Streetlights and building lights from the surrounding city appear as bright spots and streaks in the dark landscape below the archaeological site.
Francesco Valentino as Lord Henry Ashton
Valentino, Frank - Vocalist - baritone - Lord Henry Ashton - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person dressed in seventeenth-century style theatrical attire. The subject wears a wide-brimmed hat adorned with dark plumes, a pointed white collar, and a textured doublet. Studded straps cross the chest over a metallic-looking breastplate and a striped garment.
Szell, George, 1897-1970 - Conductor - - -
A person is shown from the chest up against a plain background in a black and white format. They wear dark-rimmed glasses, a dark suit, a white shirt with a bowtie, and a light-colored pocket square. Their hands are clasped together and positioned under their chin.
Ernster, Dezsö, 1898-1981 - Vocalist - bass - Rocco -
Mödl, Martha - Vocalist - soprano - Leonora
Odeon of Herodes Atticus - Building - - -
Pantazinakos, A. - Vocalist - tenor - Jaquino
Vlachopoulos, Zoë, 1916- - Vocalist - soprano - Marzelline
Zampieri, Giuseppe, 1921-1981 - Vocalist - tenor - Florestan
An illuminated outdoor stage features rows of performers in matching light-colored attire positioned in front of a high, weathered stone wall with arched openings. Additional figures are stationed on different levels of the stage, including a central staircase and side platforms. Below the stage, an orchestra and audience members are visible in the shadows. In the distance, a small lit structure sits atop a dark hilltop against the night sky.
Symphony Hall (Boston, Mass.) - Building - - -
Boston (Mass.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This neoclassical building is constructed from dark brick and features a prominent portico with six light-colored ionic columns. A broad flight of stairs leads to the main entrance, while the upper level is topped with a large triangular gable containing a circular window. Ornate lampposts and a person are visible on the sidewalk and stairs in front of the structure.
Gorin, Igor, 1908-1982 - Vocalist - baritone - - Has inscription
This black and white portrait shows a person from the chest up looking toward the side. They are dressed in a white collared shirt, a patterned tie, and a herringbone suit jacket. A signature is written on the right side of the jacket, and a small studio mark is visible in the bottom left corner.
Nilsson, Birgit - Vocalist - soprano - Senta - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up with their hair styled in a thick, wavy braid that circles the top of their head. They wear a white, long-sleeved shirt with a collar under a dark, sleeveless vest. Handwritten text in dark ink is inscribed over their forearms at the bottom of the frame against a plain background.
Kipnis, Alexander, 1891-1978 - Vocalist - bass - - Has inscription
A person is shown from the waist up against a plain, light background. They wear a textured double-breasted suit jacket with a pocket square, a light-colored collared shirt, and a dark tie. Green ink text and the date 1949 are written in the upper left corner, and the hands are clasped at the waist.
Lettvin, Theodore - Instrumentalist - piano - -
A person wearing a dark suit and white bow tie is positioned at a grand piano. One hand is raised near their chest as they look down toward the interior of the instrument. The black and white scene is framed by the large, dark, diagonal lid of the piano against a light-colored wall.
Thebom, Blanche - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Eboli - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person in a dark, high-collared dress with puffed sleeves and lace details. The individual wears a lattice-style headpiece, a large necklace, and matching earrings. A blue handwritten signature is present in the upper left area of the portrait.
Barbieri, Fedora - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Marfa -
A group of people in robes and white head coverings stand together, many holding tall, lit candles. The individuals are positioned behind a large pile of dry, leafless branches in the foreground. Some wear dark robes with a central white vertical band featuring circular patterns, while others wear light-colored robes. A wooden structure with a small icon above an entrance is visible in the background.
An ensemble of musicians in formal wear is positioned on a light wooden stage against a background of dark curtains. The group includes individuals playing violins and a double bass, one person at a harpsichord, and a conductor standing on the right side. Music stands with sheet music are arranged in front of the performers.
Windgassen, Wolfgang - Vocalist - tenor - Siegmund -
A person is shown in a black-and-white profile view, looking upward toward the left. They have wavy hair and a trimmed beard and mustache. The individual wears a dark garment with a thick, fur-like texture against a light, soft-focus background.
Pons, Lily, 1898-1976 - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
A person with short, curled hair is in a black and white studio setting wearing a strapless gown with a detailed bodice and a full dark skirt. The person wears a necklace with multiple pendants and a matching bracelet on one wrist. A handwritten signature is visible on the left side against a plain, light background.
Reverse stamped: Conductor, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
A black and white studio portrait features a person with light-colored hair and clear-framed glasses. The individual is wearing a patterned bowtie and a herringbone-patterned jacket over a button-down shirt. The background is dark and solid, and a signature is visible in the bottom right corner.
This black and white scene depicts an elaborate stage production set against a background of classical architecture with several pillars and two tall obelisks. A central pediment supports a large statue of a figure holding a trident above a pair of horses. Performers in ornate, tiered costumes fill the stage area, with some raising tridents in crossed patterns while others occupy arched alcoves on a higher level.
Sgarro, Louis, 1920-1985 - Vocalist - bass - -
A black and white studio portrait shows a person from the chest up, looking toward the side with an open-mouthed smile. They have dark hair styled with a side part and are wearing a dark suit jacket, a white collared shirt, and a light-colored paisley tie. The subject is positioned against a solid, light-colored background.
Karajan, Herbert von - Conductor - - -
A person with short hair is shown from the waist up in a black and white portrait, facing toward the left against a dark background. They wear a dark long-sleeved garment over a white dress shirt with visible cuffs and a pointed collar. One arm is positioned over the back of a chair with the hand resting on top.
Gobbi, Tito - Vocalist - baritone - Tonio -
Two individuals in theatrical costumes appear on a stage in a black and white setting. One person wears a polka-dot jumpsuit and stands behind a large bass drum with a mallet raised. The second person stands on a stool in a diamond-patterned suit while holding a small trumpet to their mouth. A draped curtain and a wall with a painted clown figure form the background.
Calabrese, Franco - Vocalist - bass - -
Petrella, Clara, 1914-1987 - Vocalist - soprano -
An elaborate stage set depicts a room with paneled walls, two hanging crystal chandeliers, and period furniture. Several people are positioned across the stage wearing historical garments including wigs, coats, and a light-colored gown with a feathered headpiece. Dark curtains frame the top and sides of the performance area.
Stich-Randall, Teresa, 1927-2007 - Vocalist - soprano - -
A person with dark, wavy hair is shown from the shoulders up against a dark, textured background. They wear drop earrings and a single-strand pearl necklace over a dark garment with a fur-like texture. A small handwritten number is visible in the bottom right corner.
Svanholm, Set - Vocalist - tenor - Admetus - Has inscription
A person appears in a black and white portrait wearing a laurel wreath, a white tunic, and a dark draped robe with a patterned shoulder piece. The individual has dark curly hair, a beard, and theatrical makeup. Handwritten blue ink in the upper right corner contains a signed dedication referencing a performance as Admetus in Gluck's Alceste.
Whittemore, Arthur Austin - Instrumentalist - piano - -
Two individuals are positioned at a black grand piano, looking at a sheet of music. One person wears a dark long-sleeved shirt and leans forward, while the other wears a checkered shirt and sits behind the music stand. A framed painting hangs on the wall behind them, and the piano's polished surface reflects their figures.
Hurley, Laurel - Vocalist - soprano - Sophie - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person with styled wavy hair wearing a dress decorated with dark floral accents and ruffled lace sleeves. They hold a rose in one hand and wear a matching rose pendant on a ribbon around their neck. A cursive signature appears on the left side of the plain, shadowed background.
Vienna (Austria) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This interior space displays an ornate architectural style with vaulted ceilings covered in paintings and intricate patterns. Multiple large, tiered chandeliers hang from the center of the ceiling, and sunlight enters from the right to illuminate the floor. The walls are detailed with moldings, pilasters, and sculptural busts set into niches above the doorways.
Rolando Panerai in Prokofiev's The Fiery Angel
A person with dark, curly hair and facial hair wears a fur-lined cloak, a high-collared shirt, and a heavy chain with a medallion. To the left of the person stands a large, textured metal rooster sculpture with wings spread wide atop a rounded base. This black and white scene is set against a dark background.
Nelli, Herva - Vocalist - soprano - Aida - Has inscription
This portrait features a person with dark, wavy hair wearing elaborate metallic jewelry consisting of a headband and a multi-layered necklace with circular plates and chain links. The individual is shown from the chest up against a plain background. Blue ink handwriting is present across the chest area, and a studio name is printed in the lower right corner.
Jobin, Raoul - Vocalist - tenor - - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up wearing a dark pinstriped suit, a white collared shirt, and a dark tie. A white pocket square is visible in the jacket pocket, and dark ink handwriting is inscribed on the front of the suit. The background is a neutral, light color.
Lauri-Volpi, Giacomo, 1892- - Vocalist - tenor - Turiddu - Has inscription
This portrait displays a person from the chest up, wearing a dark vest with light-colored embroidery and trim over a long-sleeved shirt. The individual's head is turned slightly to the side, and they have short dark hair. Blue ink handwriting is visible in the upper left corner, while the name "G. LAURI VOLPI" is printed at the bottom edge.
Igor Stravinsky at piano, Nicola Malko conducting Copenhagen Orchestra
Stravinsky, Igor, 1882-1971 - Composer - - - Has inscription
Kongelige Kapel (Denmark) - Building - - -
A conductor stands on a podium in front of a grand piano and a seated orchestra. The conductor holds a baton while facing musicians with various stringed instruments and music stands. A person sits at the piano, and signatures for Nicolai Malko and Igor Stravinsky are visible at the bottom of the frame.
A black and white theatrical scene features several people in period attire positioned on an ornate stage set. One person stands behind a curved stone railing with raised hands, while others are grouped on the stage floor and near a large paneled window. The background includes tall columns, steps, and a doorway with decorative carvings.
Arena (Verona, Italy) - Building - - -
A large-scale stage production features a multi-tiered set resembling a fortress with numerous stairs, archways, and battlements. Many performers are stationed on various levels, with six individuals in the center foreground performing synchronized movements. A dark orchestra pit is situated at the bottom of the frame, and a statue of a figure on a horse is visible at the highest point of the set.
Souez, Ina - Vocalist - soprano - Donna Anna - Has inscription
A person wears a dark, off-the-shoulder ball gown and holds a thin rod diagonally across their chest. Their gaze is directed upward and to the left, while pink ink inscription covers the right side of the composition. The writing is a message of appreciation signed by Ina Souez and dated July 18, 1957.
Ormandy, Eugene, 1899-1985 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A black and white portrait shows a person in profile from the chest up, seated in front of a bookshelf. The individual has thinning hair, wears a suit jacket, a collared shirt, and a striped tie, with their fingers interlaced in front of them. A signature is visible on the lower right side of the person's jacket, and text at the bottom right corner identifies the studio as Lotte Meitner-Graf, London.
Gobbi, Tito - Vocalist - baritone - Marcello - Has inscription
A person with facial hair is shown from the waist up in a black and white portrait, standing between vertical bars. The individual wears a dark, broad-collared coat over a buttoned plaid vest and a light-colored shirt with a large, dark fabric bow tied at the neck. White text in the lower left corner reads "Tito Gobbi" in a cursive signature style, and "Foto Locchi - Firenze" is printed in the lower right corner.
Schipa, Tito, 1889-1965 - Vocalist - tenor - - Has inscription
Drawing by S.v.a. Linde Jr. -- Signed: 1948 (Schipa)
This charcoal sketch depicts a person from the shoulders up with dark hair, looking toward the side. Blue handwritten ink in the lower right corner includes a message to J. Warren Perry, signed Tito Schipa and dated 1948. A smaller artist's signature reading "J.v.d. Linden Jr." is visible on the lower left against the white background.
Hess, Myra, Dame, 1890-1965 - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
A person with dark hair pulled back is shown from the side while playing a piano. They wear a dark long-sleeved top and have their fingers positioned on the keys in the lower right corner. Handwritten text in the center reads "With my very best wishes - Myra Hess," and a framed picture is visible in the background.
Venice (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This grand interior space is characterized by tall walls with intricate damask patterns and a speckled stone floor. A large crystal chandelier hangs from the ornate ceiling, and two large windows are framed by heavy, draped curtains. The room is furnished with a long settee, several matching chairs, a marble-topped chest, and a fireplace mirrored on the wall.
Björling, Jussi, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - tenor - Otello - Has inscription
A person with dark curly hair and a goatee stands against a dark background wearing a patterned tunic and a light-colored cape. Their arms are folded across their chest as they look toward the upper right of the frame. Handwritten text in ink is inscribed across the lower center of the portrait.
The stage for the opera Turandot is built into the tiers of the Arena di Verona, featuring a central pagoda on a raised platform surrounded by stairs, screen walls, and trees. Several individuals in costume stand on the performance area, with a large orchestra positioned in the foreground below the stage. The black-and-white scene shows the brightly illuminated set against the dark background of the amphitheater's upper seating.
A wide black and white view captures a multi-leveled stage set featuring stone buildings, staircases, and a central fountain. Numerous people in period attire occupy various levels of the square while an orchestra sits in a pit at the bottom of the frame. The background is dark, and several signs such as "CAFE" and "TABACOS" are visible on the buildings.
William Wildermann as Daland in The Flying Dutchman
Wildermann, William - Vocalist - bass - Daland - Has inscription
A head-and-shoulders portrait shows a person with textured, wavy light-colored hair and a beard. The person has a white pipe with a black stem in their mouth and looks slightly off to the side against a dark backdrop. Handwritten ink text is visible on the left side, and a studio mark appears in the bottom right corner.
Brouwenstijn, Gre - Vocalist - soprano - Jenufa -
Fisher, Sylvia, 1910-1996 - Vocalist - soprano - Kostelnicka Buryja
Act 2, Kostelnicka has just told Jenufa of the death of Jenufa's baby -- Lovro von Matacic conducted while Christopher West staged the opera. Settings and costumes were from Covent Garden.
In a room with dark, textured walls, a person in a dark cloak and head covering sits in a wooden chair. A second person, wearing a light-colored dress and with their hair in a long braid, kneels on the floor and rests their head against the seated person's lap. The setting includes a simple wooden table and a window with slats that lets in dramatic light.
Mary Curtis-Verna as Leonora in Il Trovatore
Curtis-Verna, Maria, 1926- - Vocalist - soprano - Leonora - Has inscription
A person is depicted from the chest up, wearing a dark, plumed hat and a dark coat over a white collared shirt with a black pattern. The individual's head is turned slightly to the side, and a handwritten signature is visible on the light-colored background to the left. The lighting is focused on the person's face, creating a contrast with the dark clothing and hat.
Ludwig, Christa - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Brangane - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up wearing a dark, jeweled costume and a textured cylindrical hat. They are looking away from the camera with hands held near the face. The background is plain and light, and there is a handwritten signature in blue ink on the right and a name in the bottom right corner.
This black and white portrait features a person dressed in a dark suit jacket, white shirt, and patterned necktie. The subject looks directly toward the camera against a plain background. Text at the bottom left reads "MAESTRO KURT ADLER," while text on the bottom right reads "Louis Mélançon."
Price, Leontyne - Vocalist - soprano - Thais -
A person wearing a flowing, floor-length gown with a cape and a small crown stands in a room. To the left is a bed covered in fabric, and to the right is an upholstered stool and a decorative table. The background features a dark wall with a horizontal band of circular patterns. The individual is shown in black and white, looking toward the left of the frame.
Bastianini, Ettore - Vocalist - baritone - Edgardo - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person with short wavy hair and a beard looking toward the side. They wear a dark, patterned doublet with a large white lace collar and matching cuffs, standing with their arms folded. A sword hilt is visible at their waist, and a signature is written in blue ink on the right side.
Stravinsky, Soulima, 1910- - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person with slicked-back hair and a mustache wearing round-framed glasses. They are dressed in a dark pinstripe suit with a white shirt and a dark tie. A signature in blue ink is written across the bottom left portion of the person's clothing.
Lehmann, Lotte - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
A person wearing a light-colored, long-sleeved gown with dark patterned trim stands in a doorway. They have a floral circlet on their head and hold their hands raised at chest level. A signature in blue ink is written across the lower portion of the skirt.
Hurley, Laurel - Vocalist - soprano - Marzelline -
Løvberg, Aase Nordmo, 1923- - Vocalist - soprano - Leonore
Uhde, Hermann, 1914-1965 - Vocalist - bass - Pizarro
This black and white scene displays many people in diverse historical attire positioned across a set resembling a stone fortress. A large group is gathered on and around a central staircase, while several individuals in military uniforms stand beneath a wide arch in the background. High-contrast lighting from the upper right creates sharp shadows and highlights across the stage.
Flagstad, Kirsten, 1895-1962 - Vocalist - soprano - Alcestis - Has inscription
Pernerstorfer, Alois, 1912- - Vocalist - bass-baritone - Apollo
Sullivan, Brian, 1919-1969 - Vocalist - tenor - Admetus - Has inscription
Act 3, Apollo appreas to Admetus and Alcestis
A theatrical stage features three people dressed in classical robes and tunics positioned at different elevations. One person stands high in the center against a large, glowing circular backdrop with radiating lines, while two others stand in the lower foreground near architectural elements like steps and a large basin. Cursive signatures for Brian Sullivan and Kirsten Flagstad are written across the middle and lower sections of the black-and-white scene.
Elisabeth Schwarzkopf as Countess Almaviva
Schwarzkopf, Elisabeth - Vocalist - soprano - Countess Almaviva - Has inscription
A black and white portrait shows a person wearing a lace-trimmed gown and a jeweled tiara. The person holds a large, white feather fan in front of them, which has a signature written across it in blue ink. They wear a necklace with a starburst pendant and drop earrings while looking toward the side.
Bori, Lucrezia, 1887-1960 - Vocalist - soprano - Norina - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person in an ornate light-colored dress with voluminous sleeves and floral accents, accompanied by a large matching hat. They are positioned looking down at a small book held in their hands. A handwritten message and signature in blue ink are visible across the bottom half of the frame.
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Violetta -
This black and white scene depicts a grand ballroom set on a theater stage with numerous people dressed in formal nineteenth-century attire. A wide, curving staircase dominates the left side, leading down to a checkered floor where more people are gathered in clusters. A large, ornate chandelier hangs from the domed ceiling, which is supported by thick, dark columns. Draped fabrics and tall doorways frame the background of the set.
A theatrical stage set is constructed within a large outdoor amphitheater, featuring a central golden pagoda atop a grand staircase. Hundreds of individuals in colorful costumes are positioned across the stage floor and the tiered seating levels. Numerous flags line the top of the structure, while golden statues and decorative stone panels flank the main performance area.
Claudia Muzio as Leonora in Il Trovatore
Muzio, Claudia, 1889-1936 - Vocalist - soprano - Leonora -
A person stands with their back mostly to the camera, wearing a dark, floor-length gown featuring a train and sheer lace sleeves that cover the hands. One arm is raised while the other is extended lower, and their head is turned in profile toward the raised hand. The individual has dark, wavy hair adorned with thin, hanging decorative elements against a neutral, mottled studio backdrop.
Stock, Frederick, 1872-1942 - Conductor/Instrumentalist - violin - - Has inscription
A person stands at a music stand against a dark background, wearing a suit jacket and tie. One hand holds a baton in an upright position while the other hand is raised with an open palm. A signature is written across the white border at the bottom of the frame.
Lipton, Martha - Vocalist - soprano - Contessa de Coigny - Has inscription
This person wears an ornate historical costume with a wide lace collar, ruffled sleeves, and heavy jewelry. They have a tall white wig styled with ornaments and hold a partially open folding fan. A handwritten signature in blue ink is visible on the upper right side of the black and white frame.
Votipka, Thelma - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Mamma Lucia -
A person in dark clothing with a fringed hood is positioned against a light background with their hands clasped beneath their chin. A ring is visible on the person's finger, and graying hair is visible under the hood. The black and white scene captures the subject from the waist up.
Menotti, Gian Carlo, 1911- - Composer - - - Has inscription
A black and white portrait features a person from the chest up against a textured wall. The subject wears a chevron-patterned jacket, a light collared shirt, and a dark tie. A signature is written on the wall to the left of the individual.
Badioli, Carlo - Vocalist - bass - Bartolo (Barbiere di Siviglia) - Has inscription
A person stands in a theatrical costume consisting of a tricorn hat, a ruffled collar, a patterned waistcoat, and a dark cape. They hold a cane in one hand and a set of keys in the other. Printed text at the bottom identifies the subject as Don Bartolo in a 1953 production.
Heifetz, Jascha, 1901- - Instrumentalist - violin - - Has inscription
A person wearing a dark suit and tie is seated at a desk, holding a cigarette holder with rising smoke. The desk in front of them contains sheet music with a handwritten signature, an ashtray, and several pencils. A sculpted bust stands in the background to the left, and text is present across the middle and lower parts of the frame.
Calabrese, Franco - Vocalist - bass - Don Geronio -
Callas, Maria, 1923-1977 - Vocalist - soprano - Fiorilla
Gardino, Jolanda - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Zaida
A stage set depicts a formal interior with dark wood-paneled walls, decorative oval frames, and a central painting of a tropical landscape. Three people in historical attire are positioned around a table covered with a fringed cloth, with one person seated on the left, another in a light-colored gown at the center, and a third standing on the right. The entire scene is framed by a proscenium arch with heavy curtains and a decorative valance.
Pierre Monteux receives standing ovation as conductor, San Francisco Symphony
San Francisco Symphony Orchestra - Ensemble - - -
Monteux, Pierre, 1875-1964 - Conductor - -
Monteux receives standing ovation upon his return as permanent conductor
An orchestra performs on a stage framed by large draped curtains within a tiered concert hall. A dense crowd of people stands in the main seating area and along the upper balconies, many looking toward the stage. The architecture features high vaulted ceilings, ornate moldings, and arched windows along the side wall.
Stokowski, Leopold, 1882-1971 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
This black and white portrait shows a person wearing a dark, button-down shirt standing behind a music stand holding sheet music and an RCA Victor microphone. The person has light-colored hair and holds both hands up and out to their sides. A red handwritten signature is superimposed across the center of the frame.
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Violetta - Has inscription
A person in period attire wears a wide-brimmed straw hat and a light-colored dress with a ruffled neckline. They hold a parasol handle adorned with a dark bow while looking slightly to the side. Handwritten ink inscriptions appear in the upper left corner and diagonally across the person's torso.
Corena, Fernando - Vocalist - bass - Dr. Dulcamara -
This black and white scene depicts a theatrical production featuring a horse-drawn carriage and several performers in period attire. One person in a striped jacket stands in the carriage with an arm outstretched, while another sits at the front holding a trumpet and a long pole. Other people on the ground reach toward the carriage against a backdrop that includes a banner and a building facade.
Warren, Leonard, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - baritone - Simon Boccanegra - Has inscription
A person with a long beard and wavy hair wears historical garments including a laced tunic and a dark cloak. They hold a small, decorative sword across their chest with both hands. A handwritten signature and numeric sequence are visible at the bottom left.
Malcuzynski, Witold, 1914- - Instrumentalist - piano - -
A person in formal attire is shown in profile seated at a piano. They wear a dark suit and tie with slicked-back hair while placing their hands on the keyboard. A window with horizontal blinds is visible in the background.
This scene depicts a theatrical production staged against a wide stone wall with three tiers of arched niches housing many performers. On the ground level, a large group of costumed figures surrounds two central individuals standing in a spotlight. The monochromatic lighting highlights the textured stone and the numerous people positioned throughout the vertical set.
Corelli, Franco - Vocalist - tenor - Calaf -
A black and white portrait features a person from the chest up wearing a large, textured headpiece made of dark curls. The individual has dark, stylized eye makeup and wears a high-collared garment with intricate braided trim. Text at the bottom identifies the subject as Franco Corelli in the role of Calaf from "Turandot."