This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

Opening concert for the 15th Annual American Music Festival.

Seymour Siegel introduces the program by discussing WNYC's role in opening a "channel of communication in a democracy" and thanks the performers union.

Vice President of Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians, applauds the work of WNYC and the American Music Festival in "furthering the cause of live music and professional musicianship."

Mayor Wagner remembers the "part music plays in the culture of our city" and thanks WNYC for the work done at giving musicians the opportunity of participation. "If we here in New York are to still be the cultural center of our country - and I sincerely hope of the world - because unless we retain that leadership, we are going to give up something that is so important in our life here, a very important part of making our city the kind of city that we love so much, the kind of city that we want to give to our children in the way of a fine heritage." Pays tribute to the staff of WNYC.

Concert performed by Orchestra of the National Orchestra Association, under the direction of Leon Barzin. Works of the 1953 award winners of the National Institute of Arts and Letters.

Siegel introduces Dr. Douglas Moore, president of the National Institute of Arts and Letters, who explains the awards celebrated that evening.


Soloists:
Morris Wilk, violinist
William Hess, tenor

Arts and Letters winners:
Peggy Glanville-Hicks
Roger Goeb
Nikolai Lopatnikoff

Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection

WNYC archives id: 8523
Municipal archives id: LT7394