Antonia and Her Magic Wand

Sure to inspire young music lovers to follow their dreams, here is a picture book biography about trailblazing Antonia Brico, the first female conductor of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.

Ever since she saw her first symphony orchestra as a little girl, Antonia Brico knew she wanted to be a conductor. To wave a baton like a magic wand and cast a musical spell. 

But in the 1920s, female conductors were unheard of. From Antonia’s music college in California, to the grand concert halls of Berlin and New York City, her ambitions were met with a resounding chorus of Nos. Still, she never stopped chasing her dream because she believed in the music within her. 

Featuring vibrant artwork that captures the magic and energy of a symphony, this inspiring picture book shows how, with indomitable faith in herself, Antonia pushed through every obstacle and became the first woman to conduct the New York Philharmonic — the most prestigious symphony orchestra in the United States!