(Theatrical History: Brooklyn Academy of Music) A terrific relic of the opening of this venerable Brooklyn institution, a 1 1/2 x 2 3/4 in. brass ‘ticket’ with a 1/4 in. hole at left, being an unusual invitation to the opening performance and gala for the Brooklyn Academy of Music in January 1861:

“Brooklyn Academy of Music Brooklyn, Jan 5th, 1861. You are respectfully invited to attend the Opening Entertainment of the Brooklyn Academy of Music. On Tuesday Evening, January 15th And Thursday [January] 17th” The reverse describes the opening entertainment: “On the first Evening, grand Vocal and Instrumental Concert, commencing at 8 o’clock. On the Second Evening, Grand Promenade and Ball, at the same hour. Respectfully Yours, Committee of Arrangements.”

The Brooklyn Commercial Advertiser described the opening night on 16 January: “For an opening night the attendance was not large but the unpleasant state of the weather probably tended to prevent many form availing themselves of the opportunity … The full orchestra of the Philharmonic society under the direction of Mr. Theodore Eisfield, opened the entertainment with the overture from der Freischutz which was well performed and elicited well merited applause. Mr. S. B. Chittenden, one of the committee of arrangements, then came forward and, in a brief address, detailed the difficulties with which the committee had to contend in inaugurating this enterprise.He stated that it was not the intention of the directors to allow any theatrical performance within its walls.The want, he said of a fitting hall in which concerts, operas, and musical entertainments could be given, had long been felt in Brooklyn.The citizens also wanted some place where their charitable institutions could hold their anniversaries; where citizens, irrespective of politics or parties, could assemble and devise or consult upon those schemes of charity and benevolence in which they so much delighted; where their musical societies could have their rehearsals and entertainments; in short where the elegant and refined citizens could assemble for any benevolent or artistic purpose. This want is now supplied by the Academy of Music.”

Offered together with Adraian van SINDEREN (1887 – 1963) Document Signed “Adrian Van Sinderen” as President of the Brooklyn Academy of Music, 7 1/2 x 11 in., Brooklyn, 20 May 1925, an engraved stock certificate for twenty shares of stock in The Brooklyn Academy of Music, numbered “2240.” Van Sinderen was a successful banker, Brooklyn civic leader and philanthropist.

Brass ticket bears Some minor scratches and small bend at lower right, very minor tarnish, else fine.The stock certificate is very fine.

(EXA 4312) $750