Ahlstrom (David) Collection, 1945-1993

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Summary

Title:
David Ahlstrom Collection
Dates:
1945-1993
Creators:
Ahlstrom, David
Abstract:
Extent:
10 Boxes. 11 linear feet.
Language:
Preferred citation:

David Ahlstrom Collection. Museum of Performance and Design, Performing Arts Library

Background

Scope and content:

The David Ahlstrom Collection contains musical scores, recordings, photographs, programs, and biographical information chronicling his life as a composer. The compositions in the collection range from original scores in pencil and ink, to rolled graphic scores, to the transparencies used for printing and publishing. The recordings are 8 inch reel to reel (with some 5 inch) and standard tape cassettes. They vary from student recitals presenting his works, to lectures, to live professional performances of his many operas and musicals. There are photographs of numerous colleagues and copies of all of his published and unpublished writings. The collection also has programs from BAYO and VOICES/SF (1980’s), for which Ahlstrom was director/conductor.

Biographical / historical:

David Ahlstrom (1927-1993) studied composition with Alan Hovhaness, Bernard Rogers, and Henry Cowell, and Asian philosophy with Haridas Chaudhuri. He held a Ph.D. in composition from Eastman School of Music and he taught composition at Eastern Illinois University, Southern Methodist University, and Northwestern University. He also served as conductor (orchestra, opera, and New Music series concerts) at these and other universities. Ahlstrom’s opera “America, I Love, You,” on a libretto by e e cummings, was one of seven contemporary American operas selected for presentation on OPERA America’s First Composer/Librettist Showcase on January 6, 1981 in New Orleans. Ahlstrom lived in San Francisco where he worked as a composer and writer and as Music Director/Conductor of BAYO and VOICES/SF, an ensemble specializing in showcase performances of new American operas and works for musical theatre.

Acquisition information:
David Ahlstrom’s collection was donated by his wife, Mrs. Doris Ahlstrom on Sept. 30, 1993.

About this collection guide

Collection Guide Author:
Finding aid created by Museum of Performance and Design, Performing Arts Library staff.
Date Prepared:
1945-1993
Date Encoded:
This finding aid was produced using Record Express for OAC5 on July 14, 2025, 2:54 p.m.

Access and use

Restrictions:

Entire Collection is open for research.

Terms of access:

Reproduction of these materials can occur only if the copying falls within the provisions of the doctrine of fair use. Copyright varies by item.

Preferred citation:

David Ahlstrom Collection. Museum of Performance and Design, Performing Arts Library

Location of this collection:
2200 Jerrold Avenue
Suite T
San Francisco, CA 94124, US
Contact:
4157413531
info@mpdsf.org
Website