NEW YORK...

Above is pictured the death mask of Victor Herbert, celebrated composer and bandmaster who died recently, as shown by Robert G. Harper, who will present it to the American Society of Authors Publishers and Writers. Newspaper file photo, 6/11/1924, photographer unknown.

Herbert is best known today for his operettas, but he was a leading symphonic conductor of his time and an influential composer. His second violoncello concerto was openly acknowledged by Antonin Dvorak as a model of musical structure and orchestral voicing for Dvorak's own essay in the genre. Herbert was supportive of emerging composers, including Hadley. Hadley emulated him in several ways, including early success with operetta¹ and regular inclusion of new American compositions in his programs.

Victor Herbert helped found the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) which won copyright protections and royalties for composers. Hadley, in turn, founded the National Association of American Composers and Conductors (now active as National Association of Composers/USA  or NACUSA). Reflecting Hadley's interest in emerging composers and new music, NACUSA is active promoting and aiding in the performance of American concert music.