Rodzinski, Artur. (1892–1958)
Signed Photograph to "the Angel of the Cleveland Orchestra"
Signed photograph of the eminent conductor, shown dramatically shadowed against a wall as he studies a score. He has signed and inscribed at the left to harpist Alice Chalifoux: "To my 'sweetheart,' Alice Chalifoux, the 'angel of the Cleveland orchestra,' with best wishes for great happiness in new life" and dated 1937. Photographed by Geoffrey Landesman, with the photographer's stamp on the verso. In very fine condition. 9.25 x 7.25 inches (23.5 x 18.3 cm).After emigrating from Poland in 1926 to serve as assistant conductor to Stokowski in Philadelphia, Rodzinski was later director of the Cleveland Orchestra (1933–1943), the New York Philharmonic and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
From the collection of Alice Chalifoux, principal harpist with the Cleveland Orchestra from 1931 to 1974 and, for many years, its only female member. Chalifoux played under the first five music directors of the Cleveland Orchestra: Nikolai Sokoloff, Artur Rodzinski, Erich Leinsdorf, George Szell and Lorin Maazel. She studied with Carlos Salzedo and went on to train a further generation of harpists at the Cleveland Institute of Music, Oberlin College, Baldwin-Wallace College and the Salzedo Harp Colony. Described as "diminutive, salty-tongued and beloved," she was especially known for her sharp wit. (15191)
Signed Photograph Classical Music