By 2004, only four Victor Herbert shows had been recorded; today, 39 of them have, thanks to the Comic Opera Guild. As the major producer of the works of this important American composer, it is only fitting that the Guild should mount a concert of his music on the 100th Anniversary of his passing.
Known as the “Father of Broadway,” Herbert’s music filled the country’s major theaters for nearly 30 years, but today he is remembered mainly for “Babes in Toyland” and “Naughty Marietta.” Top numbers from less well-known shows will be brought to light by vocal soloists with orchestra and chorus, conducted by the country’s foremost expert on Herbert’s music, Adam Aceto. The musical material for this concert has required hundreds of hours of research. Selections will be from shows the Guild has revived, with orchestrations newly restored by Mr. Aceto. He will be joined by eight professional soloists who have starred in our previous recordings, including Kim Dolanski, Irina Medvedeva, Kirsten Kunkle Barbara Scanlon, David Troiano, Nick Kreider, Chris Grapentine and Thomas Petiet.
To make this concert possible, the Guild has sought and received funding from several organizations, including the Victor Herbert Foundation and the Ann Arbor ARPA fund, as well as the Guild’s own donors, whom it thanks.