Victor 78RPM Record Set #C-25 Porgy and Bess Gershwin Tibbett Jepson 1936 WOW
$
32
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Description
Collectors, here is a special and historic four 12 inch Victor Red Seal record set: this is what I assume to be the first official set of records from the George Gershwin opera Porgy and Bess, circa 1936, set C-25. Performers are opera stars Lawrence Tibbett and Helen Jepson. The records use the original chorus and orchestra from the original production, led by the original conductor, Alexander Smallens. The record labels state (fifth picture) that this was "recorded under the supervision of the composer."
The album itself is in excellent overall condition, covers show slight wear and bottoms of the record sleeves are a little torn. All four records are here and appear to be in like new condition. I did not dare play a 1930s 78 on my 1912 Victrola, but surfaces are shiny and show little wear in any way. The records are set up for a non automatic phonograph, being marked 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8. By 1936, Gershwin was famous and popular, but the opera received mixed reviews, likely due to its subject matter (poor southern black people) and opera format, as opposed to the Gershwin brothers' many musicals from the 1924 - 1933 era. I'm sure the record set was expensive, and this came out in the height of the depression, so sales might not have been significant. Also, 85 years have passed since issuance of the set, as to how many are around, complete and in good shape in 2021, who knows??? If you want to add this to your collection, do not pass this opportunity up. Reasonable buy it now price given what I have here, go for it!!!!
Shipping to USA addresses only. $7.00 media mail postage and handling fee. Please pay within 24 hours of purchase and I will leave you positive feedback when I ship the record, your positive feedback appreciated!! See my other listings for other early 78s and thanks for looking!!
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