Special Collections in the McKay Music Library

The Aldrich Archive

Physical collection that can be searched through the online catalogue.

Named after the early 20^th century American opera star Mariska Aldrich, this archive contains over 25,000 commercial, out-of-print, and historical recordings; operatic scores and sheet music; periodicals and books about music; and historical photos and ephemera. During her careers, Madame Aldrich began collecting operatic memorabilia and audio recordings. Her daughter, Anna Mary Aldrich (Meeka) and her husband, Rick Anderson, continued caring for and adding to her mother’s collection, expanding it to its current size. In 1998, after their deaths, the Aldrich Foundation gifted the collection to the University of Utah. 

To arrange a visit to the Aldrich Archive, please contact us.

About Madame Mariska Aldrich

Mariska Aldrich (1881-1965) was an American dramatic soprano singer and actress, born in Boston, Massachusetts. She made her operatic debut at the Manhattan Opera House in 1908 in Meyerbeer’s Les Huguenots. Mariska was the first American-born soprano to become a star with the Metropolitan Opera and the first American to sing all three Brünnhildes of Wagner’s Ring in Germany. After years of singing in Europe and the United States, Madame Aldrich settled in Los Angeles, coaching singers and teaching voice. 

Of great beauty, with a figure both commanding and handsome, she exhibited a voice that is bound to leave an impression on New York music lovers. It has grace, range, volume of tone and wonderful beauty.”

-unknown reviewer  

Henry Wolking Collection

Physical collection that can be searched online here.

Henry Wolking is a composer, trombonist, conductor, teacher, and author currently based in Nevada. A Florida native, he began his teaching career as head of the jazz area at the University of Utah, a position which he held for almost forty years. He retired in 2011 and is a University Professor Emeritus of Music. The McKay Library holds archival masters of scores and parts as well as circulating scores and parts in come cases. See more information about Professor Henry Wolking, including an audio interview.