Barber, Samuel, 1910-1981

Biography

Samuel Barber (1910-1981) was an American composer of orchestral, opera, choral, and piano music. He attended the Curtis Institute of Music from 1924 to 1934, studying composition with Rosario Scalero, piano with Isabelle Vengerova (1924-1926), and voice with Emilio de Gogorza.

In 1928, Scalero accepted italian-born student Gian-Carlo Menotti who became Barber's colleague and life partner. The two composers had a very close relationship with Curtis founder, Mary Louise Curtis. They corresponded often, and she assisted them professionally and financially at times. Her assistance enabled them to purchase their home, known as Capricorn, in Mt. Kisco, New York which became a meeting place for artists and intellectuals. After Barber and Menotti separated, the house was sold in 1973.

Found in 24 Collections and/or Records: