Scope and arrangement
The Ballet International Records contain materials related to Adolf Schmid’s arrangements and orchestration for Ballet International during the years 1944-1945. The collection contains Schmid’s handwritten and typed orchestration notes; several drafts of analytical cost estimates and financial records for personal reference related to this project; a copy of a rehearsal schedule for October, most likely of 1944; and programs from that season’s performances. The correspondence folder contains what seems to be the full exchange of letters between Adolf Schmid and Ballet International over the period of their colaboration, with drafts or personal copies of letters he sent to them and their reply; there are also a few unrelated letters and drafts. Several pages in the orchestration notes, cost estimates and some letters are written on the verso of paper with crossed-out drafts of unrelated text. Finally, the collection contains one clipping from 1952, and 12 typewritten pages of text entitled The Introduction of a New Art in America, author is not mentioned. Of particular interest are the program magazines (folder 6). Especially the first of the two, covering October-November 1944, that introduces thoroughly the Ballet Institute and Ballet International, including the aims of the institutions, “Behind the Ballet” stories, and short biographical notes of its members and contributors from its founder and artistic director to choreographers, members of the musical department, and the dancers themselves. This collection does not include any other materials for Ballet International or Adolf Schmid, apart from the brief period of their collaboration.