The Victor Cafe, Part 1

We are delighted to announce that this show is now sponsored by Cunningham Piano, which has graciously provided the space to record our show and amazing pianos we get to play on, such as the Bösendorfer 214 VC 7’ grand piano featured in this episode. Thank you, Cunningham Piano!

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In South Philadelphia, there is a special restaurant called The Victor Cafe, where the waitstaff sing opera arias while patrons enjoy a wonderful Italian meal. The Victor Cafe saw some of the world's most prominent musicians pass through their doors, and the walls of the restaurant are covered with their portraits.

Earlier this year, Madalina had the opportunity to interview one of the restaurant's owners, Greg DiStefano. We'll get to that interview in the next two episodes - for now, Madalina shares the incredible history of The Victor Cafe and its amazing connection to some of the earliest music technologies - the Edison cylindrical Phonograph and the Victor Victrola Gramophone.

Our musical selection is by Italian composer Ottorino Respighi, "Air de chasse sicilien", or "Sicilien Hunting Song", from his set of 6 little pieces for piano 4-hands.