Price, Leontyne - Vocalist - soprano - Thais - Has inscription
A person stands in a long, draped one-shoulder gown accented by a jeweled belt and a crown. A large shadow is cast against the wall to the person's left, and a handwritten signature in purple ink is located on the right side of the frame. The individual has dark curly hair and is wearing open-toed sandals.
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
Bertocci, Aldo - Vocalist - tenor - Gabrielle Adorno -
Rovere, Anna Maria, 1929-1998 - Vocalist - soprano - Amelia Grimaldi
Two people in ornate clothing stand on a stage set featuring tall trees and a painted backdrop. The background depicts a cloudy sky with a moon above a distant horizon. A stone-like structure with steps is located on the left side of the stage, and a bench is positioned on the right.
Campora, Giuseppe - Vocalist - tenor - Alfredo Germont -
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Violetta
A person in a large floral ball gown and a person in a dark tuxedo stand on a stage next to a wide, curved staircase. The set features ornate lamp posts with multiple round light bulbs and a dark backdrop decorated with palm tree motifs. These performers occupy the foreground, illuminated by stage lighting against the dark architectural set.
Leonard Warren as Count di Luna of Aragon
Warren, Leonard, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - baritone - Count di Luna of Aragon -
A person wearing a velvet period costume with a cape and a flat cap looks to the side while gripping a sword hilt. The individual has a trimmed beard and mustache, and the outfit features textured fabrics and a netted chest piece. The portrait is set against a plain, light background with a signature in the bottom right corner.
Hotter, Hans - Vocalist - bass-baritone - Wotan - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person with light-colored hair, a mustache, and a beard against a dark background. One side of the face is illuminated, showing one open eye looking forward, while the other side is obscured by shadow. The person has a neutral facial expression and hair that is styled upwards.
Mödl, Martha - Vocalist - soprano - Brunnhilde -
A person in performance attire with styled hair stands beside a dark horse against a black background. The person wears a textured, shimmering cape and has a hand placed on the side of the horse's head. The horse is outfitted with a bridle, and its reins are being held near the bit.
A black and white scene depicts the stage set for act two of the opera La Traviata, with two figures in costume standing near a central table. The set includes a fireplace, multiple chairs, and three large windows framed by heavy curtains. Dark curtains border the top and sides of the stage, and white text at the bottom indicates the performance details.
Bastianini, Ettore - Vocalist - baritone - Count di Luna of Aragon -
Reverse: Season's last performance […] Wednesday evening, April 6th.
A person is presented from the waist up wearing a dark, heavily embroidered doublet with large puffed sleeves and intricate beaded patterns. A wide belt with a metallic buckle is fastened at the waist, where the hilt of a sword is visible. The person has dark hair in a short bob style with bangs and a trimmed beard.
This black and white scene features three figures on a circular, lit platform positioned against a background of high, vertically draped curtains. One person stands with arms outstretched horizontally, while another stands near them and a third sits on the floor. A single vertical staff and several block-like objects are arranged on the stage surface.
Purdue University Auditorium - Building - - -
Lafayette (Ind.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This interior view shows a large theater with rows of dark seats in the foreground and on the main floor facing a stage. The stage is framed by heavy curtains and opens into a brightly lit space with further tiered seating and background doors. Vertical fluted panels decorate the side walls, and long light fixtures run along the ceiling's geometric sections.
Elmo, Cloe - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Azucena -
Rigal, Delia - Vocalist - soprano - Leonora
Two individuals are seated on a low platform in the center of a theatrical stage surrounded by tall, jagged towers. One person wears a light-colored gown and veil, while the other wears a dark robe and head covering. To the right of the figures is a large wall with an arched doorway and a long, draped curtain.
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Adriana - Has inscription
A person stands wearing a dark, elaborate gown featuring white lace and intricate patterns on the bodice. They wear a matching black hat with feathers, a white wig, and various pieces of jewelry including a necklace and bracelets. Handwritten ink text is visible in the upper-left corner of the black-and-white portrait.
Milan (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
Multiple stacked levels of theater balconies feature intricate architectural details including carved faces and floral patterns. Each box is illuminated from within, highlighting the scalloped edges and textured surfaces of the railings. A large curved ceiling with seashell-shaped motifs and a row of rectangular vents is visible at the top of the structure.
A crowd of people in robes and period attire is arranged across a stage in front of a set depicting an arched stone structure and a backdrop of cypress trees. In the center foreground, an individual lies prone on the floor while others stand in several rows behind them. Several figures wear dark hooded garments, and one person near the center holds a tall staff topped with a cross. The scene is presented in black and white with lighting that creates sharp shadows across the set.
A stage performance features a group of people positioned in front of a backdrop depicting a forest with tall, thick trees. Below the stage, an orchestra is visible in a pit with several musicians holding string instruments. The performers on stage wear various types of hats and outerwear while standing or sitting in small clusters across the floor.
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Aida - Has inscription
A person with hair styled in a high bun wears several strands of necklaces and large hoop earrings while leaning against a small stone bust. They look toward the side of the frame with their arms crossed over the sculpture. Handwritten text is visible in the lower right corner over the person's patterned clothing.
Simionato, Giulietta - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Eboli - Has inscription
The subject wears a floor-length, black lace gown and a matching veil that covers the head and shoulders. They stand in front of an ornate, rectangular mirror that is mounted on a small shelf against a plain wall. Handwritten script is visible on the surface of the image in the bottom right corner.
Fedora Barbieri in Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice
Barbieri, Fedora - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - -
A person is dressed in theatrical attire featuring a light-colored draped garment over dark clothing and lace-up sandals. They are positioned on a set piece next to a stone-like platform that holds a metal lyre. The individual wears a white, curly wig with upright ornaments and looks upward against a dark background.
Sutherland, Joan, 1926- - Vocalist - soprano - Lucia -
A person stands in a high-contrast black and white scene wearing a light-colored gown with dark markings. The individual has long dark hair and looks upward with an open mouth while clutching a large bundle of fabric. The surrounding environment is dark with a textured surface in the background.
Bing, Rudolf, Sir, 1902- - Person (other) - Manager - - Has inscription
This person is shown from the chest up in a black and white format, looking toward the side. They have a receding hairline with dark hair on the sides and wear a dark suit jacket, a white collared shirt, and a dark necktie. A white pocket square is tucked into the suit pocket, and a handwritten signature appears at the bottom.
Cesari, Renato - Vocalist - baritone - -
Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975 - Vocalist - tenor -
Act 1, scene 2 (l. to r.): Cesari, Gobbi, Tebaldi, Tucker, Mazzoli -- Gianandrea Gavazzeni, conductor
A large group of people in period-style clothing stands on a grand theatrical stage flanked by tall, fluted pillars. The set features a central throne on a raised platform and a complex backdrop illustrating medieval cityscapes and maritime scenes. Three model sailing vessels are suspended from the ceiling above the stage.
Templeton, Alec, 1910-1963 - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
A person in a tuxedo and white bow tie is seated at a piano. One hand is placed on the keyboard while the other arm rests on the edge of the instrument. The name Alec Templeton is written in cursive script in the upper right portion of the scene.
Cluytens, André - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A black and white scene features a person in the foreground of an ornate hall with balconies and windows. The individual wears a collared shirt, tie, and zip-up cardigan while holding their arms bent and hands held upward. Handwritten text, including a signature and the date 11/12/1955, appears in the bottom left corner.
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.
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.
Description of Lewisohn Stadium Concerts
Lewisohn Stadium (New York, N.Y.) - Building - - -
New York (N.Y.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
Here's News from Stadium Concerts, Incorporated. History of the Stadium Concerts series and discussion of the 1955 season. Page 4
This typed document outlines the 1952 Stadium Concerts season, specifically detailing the Industrial Sponsorship Plan and the involvement of various metropolitan businesses. The text describes how tickets were distributed to employees and sold on credit for the first time through specific retail stores. It includes a quote by Lawrence Gilman emphasizing the cultural importance of the concerts and ends with a short concluding statement mentioning Minnie Guggenheimer.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Björling, Jussi, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - tenor - Manrico -
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.
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.
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.
Arena di Verona - first opera performance in arena
Arena (Verona, Italy) - Building - - -
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Carnegie Hall (New York, N.Y.) - Building - - -
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.
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.
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.
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.
Reader's Digest article about Symphony of the Air
Reader's Digest article titled The Orchestra That Refused to Die. Page 1
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.