Toscanini, Arturo. (1867–1957)

"Merry XMAS" 1947 Diary Gift Set with Toscanini's Printed Signature

An unusual diary gift set given by the legendary conductor, consisting of 4 small appointment books, an address book, and a leather cover printed on the inside flap in gold with the message, "Merry Xmas 1947 / Arturo Toscanini." in Toscanini's handwriting. The leather cover is embossed on the front cover with the initials E. V. and includes a small gold pencil. Manufactured by Cross and in the original gift box with tissue paper, the set has not been used and shows only light toning and wear and a slight rip to one of the flaps of the cover, otherwise in fine condition. An interesting souvenir of one of the greats. 3 x 4.5 inches (7.5 x 11 cm); box 5.25 x 4.25 inches (13.3 x 10.7 cm).

The twentieth century saw no more exciting conductor than Arturo Toscanini, whose electric performances from the turn of the century to the 1950s have been dazzlingly documented on record and on film. La Scala, Milan, The Metropolitan Opera, New York, the Bayreuth and Salzburg Festivals, the New York Philharmonic, the Palestine Orchestra and the NBC Symphony Orchestra were all transformed by his involvement with them. His range of repertoire and his engagement with the contemporary composers from Verdi to Barber are of enormous significance. Among the many world premieres he conducted were Puccini’s La Bohème, La Fanciulla del West and Turandot; Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci, and Barber’s Adagio for Strings, all staples of the repertoire. (13468)

Ephemera Classical Music