Florence Foster Jenkins - Original 78rpm Operatic Record on Melotone label
$
355
Favourite Auctions
To save auctions to your favourites, please login
If you don't have an account, please register
Description
The inimitable Florence Foster Jenkins is once again in the news, thanks to the new movie starring Meryl Streep. Jenkins remains a legend for the strange reason that she was an absolutely terrible operatic singer.
Jenkins made only 5 records, between 1941 and 1944. These were privately produced, by the Meltone Recording Studio ("Your portrait in sound".) The number of records pressed is apparently unknown but was certainly very limited since these were primarily made for Jenkins to sell to friends. They were not generally available in stores, aside perhaps from the Gramophone Store in NYC, who described one of the recordings as “a most unusual record which must be heard to be believed”. A very succinct description.
Offered here is one of those very rare pressings, "Charmant Oiseau" from the 'Pearl of Brazil', as interpreted by Jenkins with her backup pianist, Cosmé McMoon. This 78rpm recording is 12" in diameter and is unusually thick and heavy. The condition is near-mint, bright and shiny with no noticeable scratches or scuffs. It plays perfectly.
There are many CD compilations of Jenkins' recordings but originals almost never appear on the market. I have had this in my extensive collection of phonographs and records for almost 20 years. It is the only copy I have ever seen in my travels.
I will double-box it and pack it very securely for safe shipping.
price rating
