The Academy of Music

Invitation and Program Book

Completed in 1857, the Academy of Music is the oldest opera house located in the United States still in use for its intended purpose. Inspired by the La Scala Opera House in Rome, the Academy’s architecture is distinguished by its grand interior spaces and handsome brick exterior. The Academy is the performance venue where the Philadelphia Orchestra made its sound famous.

158th Anniversary Concert and Ball. Since 1957, the building’s centenary year, the Orchestra has celebrated the Academy with an annual concert and ball, the city’s premier formal event. The theme for the 158th Anniversary Concert and Ball was “Honoring Our Grand Traditions.”

Emphasizing the magnificent venue, the event’s invitation and program book utilize the building’s architectural features and intricate decoration as the signature elements to communicate the splendor and excitement of the evening. Classic beaux arts design and mid-century modern touches simultaneously allude to the rich history of the Academy and the event.

My Role
Creative Concepts
Art Direction
Architectural Photography
Illustration
Design Lead

Jan C. Almquist
Project Management
Art Direction

Rich Cossentino
Graphic Design