25c Arturo Toscanini single

A Performing Arts Series commemorative stamp honoring Arturo Toscanini (1867-1957) was issued on March 25, 1989, in New York City. The dedication ceremony was held at Carnegie Hall, the world-famous facility that was home to Toscanini's New York Philharmonic and the NBC Symphony. Toscanini became the eleventh member of the Performing Arts Series, joining such noted entertainers as Will Rogers, Enrico Caruso, Duke Ellington, Douglas Fairbanks, and W.C. Fields.

Many consider Toscanini the greatest conductor of all time. He was exacting, putting himself and his artists through arduous rehearsals in search of musical precision and the composer's message. His demands for clarity, expression, and honesty chased away artistic indifference and raised orchestral standards. "This is great music," he said. "I must give it my greatest effort. I cannot hold back."

Designed by Jim Sharpe, the stamps were issued in panes of fifty. American Bank Note Company printed the stamps in the photogravure process.

Reference:

Postal Bulletin (February 16, 1989).

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