Cynthia Auerbach papers, 1968-1986

Links

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• View PDF finding aid (75.38 KB)

Creator

Auerbach, Cynthia.

Location

Music Division

Extent

• 8 linear feet (13 boxes)

Scope/Contents Note

The Cynthia Auerbach papers documents her directorial career from 1968 through 1986. The collection consists primarily of production notes for many of the operas she directed. These notes include notations on blocking, props,and actual notes photocopied and given to the actors. Occasionally programs and marked librettos are included with the materials. Often, lists of actors that appeared in her productions are available as well. There are no materials of a personal nature within this collection.

Biographical/Historical Note

Cynthia Auerbach (1943-1987) was a prolific director of opera during her relatively brief life. Born in Spring Valley, New York, she studied piano at the Juilliard School and attended the State University of New York at Potsdam, earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in piano education and music theory. Auerbach was a member ofthe faculty of the Manhattan School of Music, eventually becoming the assistant director of the Preparatory Division. Her interest and experience in directing opera began when she founded a children's opera theater at the Manhattan School of Music in 1968. She soon began directing for the Bel Canto Opera and the New School, before becoming a resident director at New York City Opera,where her productions of La Boheme and Carmen received considerable acclaim. Her success with the New York City Opera led to numerous engagements with regional American opera companies, including an appointment as artistic director for the Chautauqua Opera, as well as the Rochester Opera Company. In addition to her work as a director, Auerbach also was known as a pianist, coach, andconductor, and enjoyed writing parodies of famous operaticarias for fundraisers and galas before her untimely death.

Controlled Access Terms

• Auerbach, Cynthia.
• Opera producers and directors -- United States.
• Librettos.
• Programs.
• Opera producers and directors.

Additional Creator Names

• Manhattan School of Music (New York, N.Y.)
• American Music Collection.