Music Meets Drama

Louise Talma  (1906-1996) New York City, 1991….phone conversation…. “Hello, may I please speak to Louise Talma?”   “Speaking.”   “Miss Talma, my name is Kathleen Shimeta and I am a mezzo-soprano.   You do not know me.   I am calling because I am in the midst of planning a recital of American art songs composed by living composers.   When I perform this recital, I would like the composers to be in the audience.   The program will take place in November, American Music Month, so my recital honors living American composers.   I would like to include some of your songs on the program.”   “Have you purchased any of my songs?” “Not yet.”   “Well, when you have purchased my songs, call me back.”   And, she abruptly hung up the phone.   Thus was my introduction to composer, Louise Talma. Born in Arcachon, France, Miss Talma was raised in New York City.   Her musical training took place at Institute of Musical Arts ...