Louis Applebaum

Louis Applebaum: A Passion for Culture by Walter Pitman, published by Dundurn Press in 2002. This is the hardcover first edition and first printing, with the complete number line beginning with 1, in its original pictorial dust jacket. The substantial illustrated biography includes black-and-white photographs, bibliographical references, and an index.

Pitman chronicles the life and influence of Canadian composer and arts administrator Louis Applebaum. Applebaum helped establish the Canadian League of Composers and Canadian Music Centre and played important roles in the cultural life surrounding the National Film Board, Stratford Festival, and National Arts Centre. The book places his work in the broader development of Canadian music, film, theatre, broadcasting, and public arts institutions.

This copy is signed and personally inscribed by author Walter Pitman in blue ink on the half-title page. The inscription is addressed to a named recipient and includes a message of thanks, making this an association-style presentation copy rather than a flat-signed example.

Very good overall, with the hardcover and dust jacket showing minor shelf and extremity wear. The dust jacket is now protected in a removable clear plastic cover. The photographed representative interior spread is clean and legible and demonstrates the book’s black-and-white photographic illustrations.