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Notes: PROPERTY FROM THE ESTATE WARD BOTSFORD

(Lots 614-626)

Ward Botsford (1918-2004) was considered by many to be the ultimate classical music maven. His extensive recording work with many of the great classical music performers of our time included Sir Thomas Beecham, Guiomar Novaes, The London Symphony Orchestra, and many others. Botsford's work was produced on a variety of labels including Urania Records, Vox Productions (with which he was Vice President and co-owner), and Arabesque Records which he founded. Botsford pioneered the reissuing of historical recordings, discovering overlooked gems of past repertoire as well as championing unusual works of new and upcoming talents.

Ward Botsford also made considerable contributions to the world of children through copious recordings of favorite authors such as the complete Winnie the Pooh with Carol Channing, the Nutcracker with the Philharmonia Orchestra conducted by Michael Tilson Thomas with narration by Christopher Plummer. He recorded a variety of albums with famous folk singer Oscar Brand that were directed for children. Botsford recorded many of Maurice Sendak's books including Where the Wild Things Are, Outside Over There and the author's version of "The Nutcracker" which was narrated by Christopher Plummer. Botsford also recorded the Broadway musical version of "Really Rosie" with lyrics by Sendak and music by Carole King. Botsford produced hundreds of albums specifically for the children's market. For his work, Botsford received several Grammy awards.