Imagine the echoes of Verdi’s “Il Trovatore” still resonating within these walls. That’s just a taste of the history that permeates the Academy of Music. Known as the “Grand Old Lady of Locust Street” the Academy of Music stands before you. It is more than just a building. It’s a living testament to Philadelphia’s rich cultural heritage.
Opened in 1857, the Academy of Music is the oldest opera house in the United States still serving its original purpose. For over a century it has hosted countless world-famous performers. These include Enrico Caruso, Maria Callas, and Luciano Pavarotti. Leopold Stokowski even conducted the American premiere of Mahler’s Eighth Symphony here.
But did you know that the Academy almost had a marble exterior? The architects, Napoleon LeBrun and Gustavus Runge, initially designed a plain brick and brownstone facade. They hoped to clad it in marble if funds allowed. Ultimately, the focus remained on the opulent interior.
Step inside. Imagine the gas jets of the original chandelier casting a warm glow. This grand fixture weighs 5,000 pounds and once required twelve people to lower it by hand. Now, an electric winch handles the task. Take note of the busts of Mozart, Poetry, and Music adorning the proscenium. The interior is an early example of American Baroque Revival architecture.
The Academy’s acoustics have been a topic of debate for years. Some praise its clarity while others find it too “dry”. Conductors like Fritz Reiner and Pierre Monteux had differing opinions on the hall’s sound. Despite these criticisms, the “Philadelphia Sound” of the Philadelphia Orchestra was cultivated here.
Beyond the arts, the Academy has witnessed some unusual events. In 1872, the Republican National Convention was held here. An indoor football game even took place between the University of Pennsylvania and Princeton in 1889. During the Phillies’ 1895 season, the Academy offered an electric play-by-play scoreboard for all of the team’s road games.
Even now, the Academy of Music is still hosting diverse events. These range from Broadway shows to comedy acts. The Philadelphia Orchestra retains ownership. This ensures that the “Grand Old Lady” continues to thrive as a cultural landmark.
As you stand here, consider the countless stories this building holds. The Academy of Music is a place where history, art, and community converge. It remains a vibrant and essential part of Philadelphia’s cultural landscape.