Antonia Brico Papers

Antonia Brico (June 26, 1902-August 3, 1989) was a conductor and pianist born in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. She Immigrated to U.S. in 1908 with her foster parents and settled in Calif. Brico received undergraduate degree from University of California at Berkeley (1924). Attended the Berlin Academy of Music and was the first American to graduate from its master class in conducting (1929). Founded the New York Women's Symphony Orchestra (1935). First woman to conduct the New York Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra (1938). Moved to Denver, Colo. in 1942. Founded Bach's Society, Women's String Ensemble and was a conductor for the Denver Community Symphony (later Denver Symphony Orchestra). Founded Denver Community Symphony (1948); during 1949 called Denver Philharmonic Orchestra. Name changed to Denver Businessmen's Orchestra (1950) and finally, Brico Symphony (1966). Died In Denver, Colo. on August 3, 1989.