(Credit: Karin Cooper)

During the Washington National Opera’s 2021-22 season Opening Night gala, the company announced that Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s family honored her love for the Washington National Opera with a gift of her piano.

The gift also included the costume worn for her appearance in a WNO’s production of Donizetti’s “La fille du régiment” in 2016. The company was also gifted with personal opera recordings, books, and other memorabilia by Justice Ginsburg.

“Ruth Bader Ginsburg was one of the greatest advocates for our art form,” said Artistic Director Francesca Zambello. “She also made all of us better artists through her high principles and inspiring way of living. With her in our audience, we wanted to do our best to elevate ourselves to her level. Thanks to this gift of her piano, WNO artists are connected to her passion and legacy as they prepare for roles and future careers for generations to come,” added Zambello.

The family of the late Justice Antonin Scalia also paid tribute to the two justices’ friendship with a donation to WNO. The gift was made by Trish and Gene Scalia, in memory of Justice Scalia and Justice and Marty Ginsburg.

“I can think of no organization better suited to present such a tribute concert than Washington National Opera,” said James Ginsburg, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s son. “I greatly look forward to seeing these tribute performances by some of my mom’s favorite singers,” added Ginsburg.