How a Composer and an Industrialist Created an Iconic Music Hall

In ‘This Week in History,’ a German composer brought a grand vision to New York City and left a lasting legacy for American music.

Carnegie Hall as it appeared after the 1896 addition of the studio tower, photographed in 1899. Courtesy of Carnegie Hall Archives

After a decade as the Kapellmeister in the Court of Weimar, Franz Liszt resigned. Between his resignation in 1859 and his move to Rome in 1861, he wrote a letter of introduction for a fellow musician who would alter American history.

“To all who are known to me personally in friendship and those who are able to judge and understand musical talent I herewith specially and particularly recommend Mr. Music Director Leopold Damrosch, Composer, Conductor, and Violin Virtuoso in all aspects an honorable and respected Artist.”