In this inscription, Bernstein thanked the New York Philharmonic for his "great opportunity."

CREDIT: Landshoff, Herman, photographer. "Bernstein's inscription, written in November 1943, reads 'To the New York Philharmonic Society in deepest gratitude for giving me my great opportunity / Sincerely, Leonard Bernstein / NYC-2/4/44.' Published in January 1944 issue of Harper's Bazaar." The Leonard Bernstein Collection, ca. 1920-1989, Library of Congress.