Anita Socola Specht facts for kids

Anita Socola Specht (born June 1871, died November 11, 1958) was an amazing American musician. She was a talented composer, a skilled pianist, and a singer. She also led the Louisiana State Federation of Music Clubs. She helped start the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra, which is now called the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

Who Was Anita Socola Specht?

Anita Socola Specht was a very important person in American music. She lived a long life, from 1871 to 1958. She was known for her many musical talents. She played the piano, sang, and wrote her own music.

Early Life and Talents

Anita was born in Louisiana. Her parents were Eliza Curien and Angelo Socola. She had five brothers who were actors. This shows that her family had a love for the arts!

Anita started her music career very young. She was only 13 years old when she performed for the first time at the Grunewald Opera House. There, she met William Henry Bernard Specht, who was a conductor. They later married in 1906 and had one son.

Anita was very smart and could speak French and Spanish fluently. She studied music in several big cities. These included New Orleans, Chicago, and New York City. She learned from famous teachers like Alexander Lambert.

A Musical Star

Anita showed her incredible talent at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. This was a huge fair held in Chicago. She won the title of “best amateur pianist in the United States.” Some of the judges were so impressed that they told her, “You are not an amateur, you are an artist!”

Helping the New Orleans Symphony

Anita Specht did more than just perform. She also helped build the music community. In 1887, she helped create the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra. This orchestra is still active today, but it is now called the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

In 1921, she was chosen to be the president of the Louisiana State Federation of Music Clubs. This role meant she helped guide music groups across the state.

Lasting Legacy

Anita Specht wrote many musical pieces. These included a beautiful Nocturne that was arranged for an orchestra. She also wrote several pieces for the piano.

Her letters with her husband are kept safe today. They are part of the William Russell Jazz Collection. This collection is at the Historic New Orleans Collection.

Before she passed away in 1958, Anita Specht started an award. It is called the Giunio Socola Memorial Award. This award is given for excellent public debate at Jesuit High School in New Orleans. It is still given out today, helping young people shine.