Enesco, Georges. (1881–1955)
Signed Photograph
Impressive signed photograph of the Romanian composer, violinist, and conductor, inscribed in 1939 to Cleveland Orchestra harpist Alice Chalifoux. He is shown in a dramatically-lit portrait by photographer Geoffrey Landesman and has inscribed at the head of the image "A Mademoiselle Alice Chalifoux, respecteux souvenir de Georges Enesco / 1939." Signed in pencil at the foot by the photographer and dated 1937. Matte print on a larger sheet; image size 7.25 x 9.25 inches (18.7 x 23.4 cm), total size 11 x 14 inches (27.8 x 35.3 cm). Slightly curled, with a few small edge creases and one chip to the edge of the image; overall in fine condition, certainly one of the loveliest examples we've encountered.Enesco was a regular guest conductor of the Cleveland Orchestra in the 1920's and 1930's.
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. (15194)
Signed Photograph Classical Music