Books › Musical Courier 1926-05-20: Vol 92 Iss 20, 1926 › scan 10
Scan 10
Musical Courier 1926-05-20: Vol 92 Iss 20, 1926
14 lines. Read by computer on 29 September 2026. Printed page 11. See the scan on archive.org.
1RAVINIA OPERA, 1926
2An Opera House in the Woods
3Annual season of ten weeks and three days of Opera and Concerts, June 26 to September 6 inclusive
5RAVINIA has its foundations rooted in a single purpose—to lend impetus to that great movement through which the American people are being brought to a deeper appreciation and understanding of the art of music-drama. It was founded on idealism, it has been continued in altruism. No note of commerciality has ever sounded in that symphony which has been woven from its activities. The idea of profit has had no place in its scheme of things. Art alone is the keynote of its structure—art elevated to the highest plane in the enshrinement of the classics of operatic literature and the augmentation of these classics through constant effort. As its accomplishment has mounted ever upward, its raison d'etre—the cultural advancement of the community it serves and a further contribution to all that America has done as its share toward the propagation of music—has never been lost to view.
7When these things are considered there is justification for a natural pride as we contemplate the years which have slipped by so rapidly since Ravinia was brought into being. It has taken of time, of effort, of care and responsibility. But these alone could not have achieved such results. Without idealism, faith, hope, and cooperation there could have been no Ravinia as it is known today. They are the factors which created its atmosphere, that have constantly supplied its background, and to them its traditions steadfastly cling. These elements, born of the spirit, have given Ravinia its place in the sun; have placed upon it the stamp of worthiness and have served as warrant for the world artists who deem it an honor and a privilege to be a part of this institution which, since its inception, has continuously included the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, making it unique in that it is the only opera house in the world with a permanent symphonic orchestra as a part of its personnel.
9So the plans for the coming season go on, and it is only necessary to glance at the roster of artists here set forth, to realize what the season of 1926 has in store. The gates of Ravinia swing wide and thousands of pilgrim feet will tread its paths during the coming summer. May we hope that you will be of their number—that you will share in that musical inspiration which is so much a part of this Opera House in the Woods.
11—LOUIS ECKSTEIN, President.
13Executive Offices: Chicago, Illinois
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