We can measure the legacy of a cultural commercial enterprise in terms of its enduring achievements. The success of the long publishing history of Casa Ricordi is reflected through its many operas still performed throughout the world after so many years, and the numerous, fundamental study methods that helped to form generations of musicians. These results are the fruit of skillfully balancing artistic goals with economic sustainability. The minutes of the shareholder meetings and those of the supervisory committee allow us to observe the influence of the personalities involved in the decision-making process (including poor choices and missed opportunities); the challenges of undertaking entrepreneurial risks; and the complexity of personal interrelationships.