ADK Talks

The Sembrich: Music, History & Lake George’s Golden Age of Opera

ADK Taste

Step into the Golden Age of Opera — without leaving the Adirondacks. In this episode of ADK Talks, Jane and Steve sit down with Caleb Eck, Director of Institutional Advancement at The Sembrich, a lakeside museum, performance venue, and cultural retreat in Bolton Landing, NY.

Discover the remarkable life of Marcella Sembrich, the Polish coloratura soprano who conquered the great opera houses of Europe, starred in the first season of New York’s Metropolitan Opera, and chose Lake George as her summer teaching studio. Caleb shares stories of her meteoric career, her deep love of nature, and her enduring legacy.

We explore:

  • How Marcella fell in love with the Adirondacks
  • Why she was the Taylor Swift of the Gilded Age
  • The magic of her former estate on Lake George
  • Behind the scenes of The Sembrich’s summer festival & exhibitions


  • Collaborations that bring world-class talent to Bolton Landing


  • Why this cultural gem appeals to both opera fans and those who just love history, art, and stunning lake views


Whether you’re in the Adirondacks, Manhattan, Philly, Kansas City or beyond, this episode will inspire you to add The Sembrich to your must-visit list.

Mentioned in this Episode:


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ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat and experience in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.


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