In October 2005, in conjunction with the 125th anniversary of the University of Southern California, Flora Records released its most recent album, Retrospective, a look back at the history of music at USC.

Some album highlights:

• Faculty artist Olga Steeb, who gave USC instant credibility when the music program was still in its infancy, recorded at Edison Studios in New York in 1922
• The USC Thornton Chamber Choir conducted by its founder, Charles Hirt
• The Grammy-winning Los Angeles Guitar Quartet and the up-and-coming New West Guitar Quartet
• English composer Benjamin Britten at the piano in Bovard Auditorium with tenor Peter Pears, recorded in 1949
• USC Thornton alumna and current Board of Councilors member Marilyn Horne, singing as a student with the USC Thornton Symphony Strings

Produced as part of the USC Thornton Protégé Program, this debut album showcases the sounds of a unique student ensemble.

The New West Guitar Quartet is composed of Matt Roberts ’05, Perry Smith ’05, John Storie '06 and Brady Cohan '07. In reference to their West Coast roots and passion for new music, the four young jazz guitarists dubbed themselves the New West Guitar Quartet (NWGQ). Combining jazz standards and original compositions interpreted in the give-and-take of a guitar ensemble, the album puts a new perspective on the world of jazz.

The first release from Flora Records, this overview of the USC Thornton School’s programs and ensembles is a great way to get acquainted with the school.