Music
Albert, Eugen d’ (1864-1932)
Autograph musical quotation signed from his masterpiece “Tiefland”
Scottish-born pianist and composer. Autograph musical quotation signed “Eugen d’Albert”. 1p., bifolium, 5.75 x 8.75 inch, Kärnten (Austria), (1)914 June, no day. Fine musical quotation marked “Tiefland” and inscribed to an unknown person. Mailing folds, minor handling wear, else fine condition. In the summer of 1914, d'Albert and his fifth wife, Friedrike, traveled to Villach in Kärnten to go on vacation. Tiefland (The Lowlands) is an opera in a prologue and two acts by Eugen d'Albert, to a libretto in German by Rudolf Lothar. Tiefland was d' Albert's seventh opera, and is the one which is now the best known. Excellent autograph from his masterpiece.
Price: $ 480 / € 400
Baker, Josephine (1906-1975)
Signed photograph
American-born French dancer, singer and actress. Vintage signed photograph “votre Josephine”. Postcard, 3.5 x 5.5 inch, n.p., n.d. The image depicting Baker in a full-length pose in costume. Verso printed “ANNABACOA” and “Par autorisation spéciale de Jospehine Baker. Les MILANDES (Dordogne).” Signed in blue ballpoint pen. Fine condition. Rare postcard, especially signed by Baker.
Price: $ 360 / € 300
Bartók, Béla (1881-1945)
Program signed
Hungarian composer, pianist and ethnomusicologist. He is considered one of the most important composers of the 20th century. He and Liszt are regarded as Hungary's greatest composers. Among his notable works are the opera Bluebeard's Castle, the ballet The Miraculous Mandarin, Music for Strings, Percussion and Celesta, the Concerto for Orchestra and six string quartets. Signed printed program “Bartók Béla”. Four pages, two separate sheets, 6.25 x 9.25 inch, 1937 February 19, in Hungarian. The classical music concert included quartet works by Beethoven, Haydn and Bartok. Signed in bold black ink to the second page alongside his printed name and quartet presentation. With three binder holes to the border, handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 720 / € 600
Bizet, Georges (1838-1875)
Autograph letter signed “I survived”
French composer of the Romantic era. Best known for his operas in a career cut short by his early death, Bizet achieved few successes before his final work, Carmen, which has become one of the most popular and frequently performed works in the entire opera repertoire. Fine content autograph letter signed “Georges Bizet”. 1p., 5.25 x 8.0 inch, no place, no date (summer 1868?). To Philippe Gille. In French, in full: “Je n'en suis pas mort - et me réintéresse aux choses de ce monde. Mévil est venu chez moi, je n'étais guère en état de le recevoir, hélas ! ma bonne m'a raconté ainsi sa visite: ‘Monsieur, il est venu un vieux homme, qui se branle la tête en marchant, il a dit comme ça que votre affaire allait comme vous vouliez’. Je ne comprends pas trop, vite, un mot - ou faites mieux. Venez me serrer la main - j'ai été très malade”. Translated: “I survived and I'm taking an interest in worldly matters again. Mévil came to my house; I was hardly in a state to receive him, alas! My maid told me about his visit thus: ‘Sir, an old man came, shaking his head as he walked. He said, just like that, that your business was going as you wished.’ I don't quite understand. Quickly, a word or do better. Come and shake my hand I've been very ill.” Mailing folds, handling wear, else good condition. Philippe Gille (1831-1901) was a French librettist and playwright who wrote lyrics for songs by Bizet. His collaboration on the song "Pastel," a French art song ("mélodie") by Bizet, is particularly well-known. Gille's lyrics contributed to the quality of Bizet's song compositions.
Price: $ 2,100 / € 1.750
Caruso, Enrico (1873-1921)
Self-caricature signed
World renowned Italian tenor usually considered the greatest operatic tenor ever and the first opera star to make best-selling recordings, beginning around 1903, which are still in print to this day. A fine and characteristic hand drawn self-caricature signed “Enrico Caruso S. Paulo 1917”. 5.75 x 7.75 inch, Sao Paulo 1917. Boldly drawn in dark fountain pen ink. Autograph was previously framed, minor paper loss at the top, small pinhole, else good condition. For other similar self-caricatures see Caruso's Caricatures, New York: Dover Publications, 1977. Caruso was highly talented as a caricaturist and illustrator. This is a wonderful example with a fine and large signature.
Price: $ 1,320 / € 1.100
Caruso, Enrico (1873-1921)
Self-caricature signed
World renowned Italian tenor usually considered the greatest operatic tenor ever and the first opera star to make best-selling recordings, beginning around 1903, which are still in print to this day. A fine and characteristic hand drawn self-caricature signed “Enrico Caruso London 1905”. 5.5 x 8.25 inch, London 1905. Boldly drawn in dark fountain pen ink, signed and dated to lower margin. Mounted on cardboard, some light soiling and age wear and light horizontal fold to the centre, else fine condition. For a similar self-caricature, only facing to the left, see Caruso's Caricatures, New York: Dover Publications, 1977, p. 9. Caruso was highly talented as a caricaturist and illustrator. This is a nice example.
Price: $ 1,320 / € 1.100
Caruso, Enrico (1873-1921)
Caricature signed
World renowned Italian tenor usually considered the greatest operatic tenor ever. A fine and characteristic hand drawn caricature signed “Enrico Caruso Boston”. 5.0 x 8.0 inch, Boston, no year. Boldly drawn in dark fountain pen ink. Horizontal fold, handling wear, else good condition. For other similar caricatures see Caruso's Caricatures, New York: Dover Publications, 1977. Caruso was highly talented as a caricaturist and illustrator. This is a wonderful example!
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Caruso, Enrico (1873-1921)
Caricature signed
World renowned Italian tenor usually considered the greatest operatic tenor ever and the first opera star to make best-selling recordings, beginning around 1903, which are still in print to this day. A fine and characteristic hand drawn caricature signed “Enrico Caruso Buffalo 1908”. 3.25 x 5.25 inch (visible), Buffalo 1908. Boldly drawn and signed in dark fountain pen ink. Fine condition. Handsomely matted in gray with a photograph of Caruso to an overall of 11.75 x 7.75 inch. Both items removable affixed with photo corners. For other similar self-caricatures see Caruso's Caricatures, New York: Dover Publications, 1977. Caruso was highly talented as a caricaturist and illustrator. This is a wonderful example and affordable priced.
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Chevalier, Maurice (1888-1972)
Vintage large signed photograph
French actor, cabaret singer and entertainer. Vintage signed photograph, probably from a concert program. 8.75 x 12.0 inch, n.p., n.d. Signed in ballpoint pen “Maurice Chevalier”. Left border trimmed, slightly discolored, minor handling wear.
Price: $ 100 / € 80
Debussy, Claude (1862-1918)
Autograph letter signed to pianist Walter Morse Rummel
French composer and one of the most influential composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Autograph letter signed “Claude Debussy”. 2 pages, recto and verso of a card, 5.0 x 3.5 inch, Paris (postmark), 1916 November 26. PREPARING FOR EUROPEAN PREMIERE OF "THE ÉTUDES". To pianist Walter Morse Rummel, agreeing to the date of December 14, authorizing him to describe the occasion as the "first audition of the Études of C.D." reporting that his wife remains ill, and requesting that the sixteenth-notes not be disturbed until they arrive. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope hand addressed in Debussy’s hand. Fine condition. Walter Morse Rummel (1887-1953) was a prominent pianist, especially associated with Claude Debussy's works, as well as a composer and music editor. Fine, especially with the hand addressed envelope.
Price: $ 2,640 / € 2.200
Dvořák, Antonín (1841-1904)
Charming autograph letter signed
Czech composer and one of the first to achieve worldwide recognition, most famous for his Symphony No. 9 - From the New World. Charming autograph letter signed in English, signed “A. Dvorak”. 1p., 4.5 x 6.75 inch, Vysoká, July 26, 1885. Handwritten letter to Henry Littleton of the music publisher Novello and Co. In full: "I have the pleasure to announce you my arrival (final on the 17th Aug: in the morning) (6.10 o'clock) & I hope to meet you at the station (Charing's Cross or Victoria); if you cannot be able to get up so early in the morning, I will find the way at Berners Street alone. Please, would you sent me a word? With many regards Yours sincerely". In fine condition, with faint staining along the left edge from an old mounting strip on the reverse. Dvorak took part in the Birmingham Triennial Music Festival in August 1885; the cantata “The Spectre's Bride” (Op. 69) was composed for the occasion and published by Novello. Henry Littleton was made a partner in Novello’s in 1861 and bought the business soon after. The village of Vysoká u Příbramě is located approximately 50 km south-west of Prague. It is a place which played a highly significant role in Dvořák’s private and professional life and can without exaggeration be described as his second home.
Price: $ 3,480 / € 2.900
Furtwängler, Wilhelm (1886-1954)
Signed Grammophon postcard photograph
Highly regarded German conductor and composer. Signed photo “Wilhelm Furtwängler”. Postcard, 4.25 x 5.75 inch, n.p., n.d. (about 1920). Grammophon postcard printed “Wilhelm Furtwängler nur auf “Grammophon” - “Die Stimme seines Herrn”. Black and white half-length portrait of young Furtwängler. Signed in dark black ink. Handling wear, else good.
Price: $ 840 / € 700
Grieg, Edvard (1843-1907)
Beautiful Carte-de-Visite photograph signed
Norwegian composer and pianist. He is widely considered one of the leading Romantic era composers, and his music is part of the standard classical repertoire worldwide. Beautiful Carte-de-Visite photograph signed “Edvard Grieg”. Carte-de-Visite, 2.5 x 4.0 inch, no place, April 1882. Signed and inscribed in Grieg’s hand: “Fröken Kai Dekker …” with thanks for tablecloth. Photo by Georg Brokesch, Leipzig. Minor handling wear, else fine condition.
Price: $ 2,100 / € 1.750
Grieg, Edvard (1843-1907)
Autograph letter signed
Norwegian composer and pianist. He is widely considered one of the leading Romantic era composers, and his music is part of the standard classical repertoire worldwide. His use of Norwegian folk music in his own compositions brought the music of Norway to fame. Autograph letter signed “Edvard Grieg”. 1p., 4.5 x 7.0 inch, Leipzig, 1894 February 1. In German, in full: “Hochgeehrter Herr! Herzlichen Dank für den Ausdruck Ihrer Sympathie für meine Kunst! Hochachtungsvoll“. Translated: “Dear Sir! Thank you very much for expressing your appreciation for my art! Yours respectfully”. Mailing fold, neatly mounted on thin cardboard of the same size.
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Korngold, Erich Wolfgang (1897-1957)
Signed photograph and autograph musical quotation signed
Austrian composer and conductor, who fled Europe in the mid-1930s and later adopted US nationality. A child prodigy, he became one of the most important and influential composers in Hollywood history - two Oscar’s. His one-act operas “Violanta” and “Der Ring des Polykrates” were premiered in Munich in 1916, conducted by Bruno Walter. At 23, his opera “Die tote Stadt” (The Dead City) premiered in Hamburg and Cologne. Fine signed photograph “Erich Wolfgang Korngold”. 3.5 x 5,25 inch, Vienna, 1920 February 23. Photograph by d’Ora Vienna with blindstamp. On verso autograph musical quotation signed from his famous opera “Violanta”. In Korngold’s hand: “Ihr liebt mich, Mona Violanta” and “Schönsten Gruss!” from the duet Alfonso - Violanta in Scene 6 from Korngold's opera. Written and signed in dark black ink. Minor stain on recto, else fine condition. A fine quotation on a photograph. Also included is an album page signed and dated by his son Ernst W. Korngold (1925-1996), dated Berlin 1983.
Price: $ 2,100 / € 1.750
Liszt, Franz (1811-1886)
Impressive oversized signed photograph
Hungarian Romantic era composer, virtuoso pianist and conductor. His prowess at the keyboard earned him a reputation as perhaps the greatest virtuoso in the history of the instrument. Impressive oversized signed and inscribed sepia photograph. 9.0 x 11.75 inch, n.p., May (18)86, signed and inscribed to the lower mount: „A mon très cher Belloni, Imperturbable Belloni - de 35 à 86, Cordiale amitié, F. Liszt“ (Translated: "To my very dear Belloni, Imperturbable Belloni - from 35 to 86, Cordial friendship, F. Liszt") and additionally dated „May 86“ in his hand. The image, 4.5 x 6.0 inch, showing the composer and pianist seated in a full-length pose before his piano and was signed only two months before passing away. Some age toning, otherwise good condition. Very likely inscribed to Gaetano Belloni (1810?-1887) Franz Liszt's Italian secretary and manager. Belloni acted as a kind of agent for Liszt, assisting him in various organizational and business tasks.
Price: $ 6,600 / € 5.500
Liszt, Franz (1811-1886)
Autograph letter signed on his personal visiting card
Hungarian Romantic era composer, virtuoso pianist and conductor. His prowess at the keyboard earned him a rep. as perhaps the greatest virtuoso. With a diverse body of work spanning more than six decades, he is considered to be one of the most prolific and influential composers of his era. Autograph letter signed “F. Liszt”. 1p., visiting card, 2.75 x 4.5 inch, n.p., n.d. Short autograph letter signed on his personal visiting card with printed „F. Liszt” in the middle. In German, in full: “Hochgeehrter Freund, Empfangen Sie freundlichst Herrn Baumeister, ein liebenswürdig ausgezeichneter Künstler, ergebenst.” Translated: "Dear friend. Please welcome Mr. Baumeister, a graciously honored artist". Fine condition and uncommon on his visiting card.
Price: $ 1,900 / € 1.600
Liszt, Franz (1811-1886)
Unique autograph note on his personal visiting card
Hungarian Romantic era composer, virtuoso pianist and conductor. His prowess at the keyboard earned him a reputation as perhaps the greatest virtuoso in the history of the instrument. Autograph note unsigned. A fine handwritten note in French on his personal visiting card, 4.5 x 3.0 inch, imprinted with his name, n.p., n.d. In full (translated): "With great pleasure, dear Count, I will come to your house today, 5 o'clock. Your affectionate servant." And dated “Samedi” (Saturday) in his hand at the bottom. At the end of his printed name, Liszt has penned the long, squiggly line typically used to cross the “t” in his signature. In fine condition, with a faint block of toning. A unique and desirable Liszt piece.
Price: $ 1,680 / € 1.400
Mascagni, Pietro (1863-1945)
Cabinet card photo with autograph musical quotation “Zanetto”
Italian composer primarily known for his operas and his 1890 masterpiece Cavalleria rusticana. Fine cabinet card photograph signed “P. Mascagni”. Cabinet card photograph, 4.25 x 6.5 inch, Firenze, (18)96 July 5. Inscribed and dated with an autograph musical quotation “Piccina bionda” from his opera “Zanetto”. Photo by G. Zaccaria of Florence showing the young composer in full-face and wearing a suit and a large striped tie. Minor handling wear, else fine condition. Pietro Mascagni’s “Zanetto” was premiered in Pesaro in 1896 and played throughout Italy in that year. It marked a return to the one-act format of Mascagni’s great success Cavalleria rusticana (1890). Surely one of the finest signed photographs of Mascagni you can hope to find, especially with this fine autograph musical quotation.
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Mendelssohn Bartholdy, Felix (1809-1847)
Autograph letter signed
German composer, pianist, organist and conductor of the early Romantic period. Autograph letter signed “Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy”. 1p., bifolium, 4.75 x 7.5 inch, Leipzig, 1837 January 24. With a fine red “FMB” wax seal and addressed in Mendelssohn Bartholdy’s hand on verso. To the Leipzig city councilor Carl Wilhelm August Porsche, whom he asks to make an appointment for a meeting. Mendelssohn intended to seek certification of his employment as music director and joint municipal protection in Leipzig for himself and his bride, Cécile Jeanrenaud. In German, in full: „Ich wünsche dringend Sie in einer mich betreffenden Angelegenheit auf ein Paar Worte sprechen zu dürfen, u. erlaube mir daher die ergebne Anfrage ob ich Sie wohl heut im Laufe des Tages entweder in Ihrem Hause oder auf dem Rathhause antreffen könnte, u. um welche Stunde…“ Published in „Sämtliche Briefe“ Band 5 Nr. 1542. Mailing folds, handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 5,400 / € 4.500
Mendelssohn Bartholdy, Felix (1809-1847)
Letter signed
German composer, pianist, organist and conductor of the early Romantic period. Letter signed “Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy”. 1p., 7.5 x 9.0 inch, Frankfurt, 1845 January 25. To the lawyer Conrad Schleinitz, addressed on verso. In German, in full: “Da Sie mir in Ihrem freundlichen Brief vom 10ten schrieben, daß Sie die Angelegenheiten Ihres seligen Herrn Bruders übernommen haben, so richte ich die Bitte an Sie, mir doch in der Pariser Nachdrucks (oder vielmehr Vordrucks) Sache baldmöglichst eine bestimmte Antwort zu verschaffen. Sie erwähnen in Ihrem Briefe, der Herr Advokat S. habe mir darüber geschrieben oder werde es thun; beides ist aber bis jetzt nicht geschehen, und ich gerathe durch das längere Ausbleiben der Antwort wirklich in Verlegenheit. Hätten Sie daher die Güte, mir eine Entscheidung umgehend zu verschaffen. Ich muss diesen Brief diktieren, weil ich seit vierzehn Tagen bettlägerig wurde, und jetzt obwohl ganz in der Besserung, doch noch nicht im Stande bin, die Feder selbst zu führen. Hoffentlich gehts es Ihrer Frau Schwägerin und Fräulein … wohl. Sagen Sie Ihnen meinen herzlichsten Gruß”. Translated: “Since you wrote to me in your kind letter of the 10th that you had taken over the affairs of your late brother, I am writing to request that you provide me with a definitive answer as soon as possible regarding the Paris reprint (or rather preprint) matter. You mention in your letter that Mr. S., the lawyer, has written to me about it or will do so; however, neither has happened yet, and I am truly distressed by the prolonged delay in receiving a reply. Therefore, would you be so kind as to provide me with a decision immediately. I must dictate this letter because I have been bedridden for the past two weeks, and although I am now fully recovered, I am still unable to write myself. I hope your sister-in-law and Miss … are well. Please give them my warmest regards”. Slightly discolored, hole from opening the seal repaired, else good condition. Conrad Schleinitz (1805-1881), a lawyer in Leipzig and good friend of Mendelssohn Bartholdy, was also an excellent tenor who sang in the oratorios of Mendelssohn, who dedicated a Midsummer Night's Dream to him.
Price: $ 3,600 / € 3.000
Meyerbeer, Giacomo (1791-1864)
Autograph letter signed
German opera composer who has been described as perhaps the most successful stage composer of the nineteenth century. With his 1831 opera Robert le diable and its successors, he gave the genre of grand opera "decisive character". Meyerbeer's grand opera style was achieved by his merging of German orchestra style with Italian vocal tradition. Autograph letter signed “Meyerbeer”. 1p. (bifolium), 5.25 x 8.5 inch, n.p., n.d. (Lundi = monday). Addressed on recto in Meyerbeer’s hand to the Politician and playwright Charles Guillaume Étienne (1777-1845) - member Académie francaise. In French, Meyerbeer writes that he will accept Étienne’s invitation for the coming Friday morning. Discolored, handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 480 / € 400
Montand, Yves (1921-1991)
Vintage large signed photograph
Italian-French actor and singer. Vintage signed photograph, probably from a concert program. 8.75 x 12.0 inch, n.p., n.d. Signed in ballpoint pen “YMontand”. Left border trimmed, minor handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 90 / € 80
Paganini, Niccolò (1782-1840)
Rare Letter Signed to famous composer Louis Spohr
Italian violinist, violist, guitarist, and composer. He was the most celebrated violin virtuoso of his time, and left his mark as one of the pillars of modern violin technique. Very rare letter signed “Niccolo Paganini”. 1p., bifolium, 8.5 x 10.0 inch, Frankfurt (Pariser Hoff), 1830 January no day. Very likely to Louis Spohr (1784-1859), court conductor in Kassel since 1822 (the address reads: “To the ducal”) and, alongside Paganini, one of the great violin virtuosos of his time, whom he canceled a planned stay in Kassel. Paganini had been on a brilliantly successful concert tour through Germany and Poland for a year, but had to interrupt it because his little son Achille was ill. In French: “… M’ayant trop retardé dans les Places en Allemagne dans lesquels j’ai donné des concerts, je suis obligé de filer tout droit a Paris. Me voila donc derobé encore pour quelques tems au desir ardent et a la haute jouis forme, d’entendre exécuter par Vous meme mon trés honnoré ami de Vos celebres compositions, dont tous connoisseurs et amateurs ressentent des eloges bien fondées; me voilà encore privé du plaisir de Vous donner quelques preuves de mon faible talent; mais patience, je depecherai mon sejour en France et en Engleterre, retourné en Allemagne, Cassel sera la premiere Ville dans la quelle je me produirai …” Translated: “…After spending too much time in the places in Germany where I have given concerts, I have to go straight to Paris. So here I am for a while longer, torn away from the glowing longing and the great pleasure of hearing you, my dear friend, perform your famous compositions, which all connoisseurs and lovers feel well-founded praise for; I am still deprived of the pleasure of giving you a proof of my feeble ability; but patience, I will hasten my stay in France and England, return to Germany, Kassel will be the first city where I will perform...". Short handwritten note in unknown hand at the top. Handling wear, discolored, slightly fragile, hole at the top edge from opening the seal, some stains, else good condition. Not listed in Codignola “Paganini intimo” (1935) und Neill “Epistolario” (1982). A fine letter between the two great violinists.
Price: $ 4,500 / € 3.750
Piaf, Édith (1915-1963)
Large photograph signed
French singer noted as France's national chanteuse and one of the country's most widely known international stars. Her fame increased during the German occupation of France, shortly after which (in 1945) she wrote the lyrics to her signature song, "La Vie en rose" ("life in pink"). Desirable cardstock photograph signed “Edith Piaf”. 7.75 x 10.0 inch, n.p., n.d. Columbia Disques promo photo signed in blue ballpoint. Photo by Harcourt, Paris and with the typical “CLUB DES DISQUES, Paris” stamp on verso. Minor handling wear, else fine condition. The classic Harcourt photo signed and excellent for display.
Price: $ 600 / € 500
Puccini, Giacomo (1858-1924)
Rare early cabinet-card-photograph signed
Italian composer whose operas are among the important operas played as standards. Widely regarded as the greatest and most successful proponent of Italian opera after Verdi. His most renowned works are La Bohème (1896), Tosca (1900), Madama Butterfly (1904) and the unfinished Turandot (1926). Magnificent cabinet-card-photograph signed “G. Puccini”. Cabinet-card-photograph, 4.25 x 6.5 inch, Milano, 1892 October 20. Inscribed by a young Puccini “Alla distintissima Signorina Etta Olivari” and dated “Milano 20 10 92”. Photograph published by Pagliano e Ricordi, Milano. Minor edge abrasions and minor mounting residue on the reverse, else fine condition. Very early and rare signed photograph of the great composer.
Price: $ 3,000 / € 2.500
Puccini, Giacomo (1858-1924)
Autograph musical quotation signed “La Bohème”
Italian composer whose operas are among the important operas played as standards. Excellent autograph musical quotation signed with his full name “Giacomo Puccini Agosto 99 (August 1899)”. Off-white 2.5 x 3.25 inch sheet. Signed and dated in ink by Puccini, who adds a bar of music from his iconic opera "La Boheme" and writing the title above. Double-matted and framed with a picture of the composer to an overall size of 14.0 x 12.5 inch. Handling wear, else good condition. The world premiere of La Bohème was in Turin on 1 February 1896 at the Teatro Regio conducted by the 28-year-old Arturo Toscanini. Since then, La Bohème has become part of the standard Italian opera repertory and is one of the most frequently performed operas worldwide.
Price: $ 3,000 / € 2.500
Puccini, Giacomo (1858-1924)
Autograph musical quotation signed “La fanciulla del West”
Italian composer whose operas are among the important operas played as standards. Excellent autograph musical quotation signed with his full name “Giacomo Puccini”. Visiting card, 3.0 x 2.0 inch, n.p. (New York), (1)910. Two bar quotation from Puccini's opera “La fanciulla del West”. Dark black ink on a visiting card of Miss Gladys Greeley, 25 Monroe Place (New York). Puccini very likely signed this visiting card during the world premiere of La fanciulla del West at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in December 1910. Mounting residue on verso, else good condition. At its premiere, Puccini declared La fanciulla del West to be the greatest composition of his career as a composer. In December 1910, its highly publicised first performance at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City was immensely popular with audiences. A rather uncommon musical quotation of Puccini.
Price: $ 3,000 / € 2.500
Puccini, Giacomo (1858-1924)
Autograph musical quotation signed “La Bohème”
Italian composer whose operas are among the important operas played as standards. Excellent autograph musical quotation signed with his full name “Giacomo Puccini”. Card, 5.25 x 3.5 inch, n.p., n.d. (Buenos Aires 1905 postmark). Two bars from his famous opera "La Boheme" in dark black ink. A beautiful card with a picture of three little girls singing. Addressed on verso in another hand to Senorita Elina Cullen Crisol in Buenos-Aires. Slightly discolored, else good condition. The world premiere of La Bohème was in Turin on 1 February 1896 at the Teatro Regio conducted by the 28-year-old Arturo Toscanini. Since then, La Bohème has become part of the standard Italian opera repertory and is one of the most frequently performed operas worldwide.
Price: $ 3,000 / € 2.500
Queen (1970)
Fully signed program from Queen's epic 1975 “A Night at the Opera Tour”
British rock band formed in London in 1970 by Freddie Mercury (1946-1991/ lead vocals, piano), Brian May (1947/ guitar, vocals), and Roger Taylor (1949/ drums, vocals), later joined by John Deacon (1951/ bass). Their earliest works were influenced by progressive rock, hard rock and heavy metal, but the band gradually ventured into more conventional and radio-friendly works by incorporating further styles, such as arena rock and pop rock. Scarce original program for the UK leg of Queen’s 1975 “A Night at the Opera Tour”. 16 pages, 10.5 x 8.25 inch, signed and inscribed on their respective musician pages in ballpoint: “Freddie Mercury”, “Brian May, to Kim”, “To Kim with love, John Deacon, x,” and "Love to Kim, Roger Taylor.” The front cover is also signed by Elton John drummer Roger Pope and manager John Reid, and the last page of the program is signed by members of the supporting act, Mr Big. In very good to fine condition, with creasing and handling wear to the covers. To support their landmark fourth studio album, A Night at the Opera, Queen embarked on a massive 78-show world tour that began on November 14, 1975, and concluded on April 22, 1976. The tour, which marked the debut of the classic Queen rock epic “Bohemian Rhapsody” included a total of 26 shows in the United Kingdom that ran from mid-November to late December. A rare piece of music history.
Price: $ 6,000 / € 5.000
Rossini, Gioachino (1792-1868)
Great carte-de-visite photograph signed
Italian composer. His best-known operas include the Italian comedies “Il barbiere di Siviglia” (The Barber of Seville). Great original carte-de-visite photograph signed. Inscribed by Rossini in Italian: “Ricordo d'amicizia offerta al Dr. G(iovanni) B(attista) Zampironi, Passy - 1862. G. Rossini”. 2.5 x 3.75 inch, Passy (Rossinis home between 1855-1868). Photo by Ét.(ienne) Carjat printed in the lower left corner. Giovanni Battista Zampironi (1836-1906) was an Italian pharmacist, known for being the inventor of the zampirone. Étienne Carjat (1828-1906) was a French journalist, caricaturist and photographer, best known for his numerous portraits and caricatures of political, literary and artistic Parisian figures. Mounting residue on verso, two small pin holes, horizontal bend, but photographers mount not broken, else good condition.
Price: $ 1,800 / € 1.500
Rossini, Gioachino (1792-1868)
Letter signed to famous tenor Marco Bordogni
Italian composer. His best-known operas include the Italian comedies “Il barbiere di Siviglia” (The Barber of Seville). Letter signed “Gioachino Rossini”. 2 pages, 6.75 x 8.5 inch, bifolium, n.p., 1854 December 30. Letter handwritten by Rossini’s second wife Olympe Pélissier and signed by Rossini with his rare full signature. Letter in French to “Mon cher Bordogni” in Paris. In this fine letter Rossini recommend Mr. Servadio, director of the Journal L’Arte in Florence. In parts: “Je me sert de la main de ma femme pour te recommander Monsieur Servadio, directeur du journal de L'Arte de florence compositeur de musique et agent correspondant theatrial!...” Giulio Marco Bordogni (1789-1856) was an Italian operatic tenor and singing teacher of great popularity and success. Olympe Pélissier (1799-1878) was a French artists' model, courtesan and the second wife of Rossini.
Price: $ 1,320 / € 1.100
Schumann, Robert (1810-1856) & Schumann, Clara (1819-1896)
One of a kind document signed
Robert Schumann was a German composer, pianist, and music critic of the early Romantic era. Clara Schumann was a German pianist, composer and piano teacher, one of the most distinguished pianists of the Romantic era and wife of Robert Schumann. One of a kind document signed “Dr. Robert Schumann”. 1p., 8.75 x 5.25 inch, Dresden, 1847 February 7. Document is written and dated by Clara Schumann. Extension of the lease for the apartment at Große Reitbahngasse 20 in Dresden. Clara and Robert Schumann moved into the apartment in September 1846. in German, in full: “Unterzeichneter bescheinigt hiermit von dem Herrn Fritsche die erste Etage in Nro 20 große Reitbahngaße aufs Neue von Ostern bis Michaelis 1847 zu dem Preis von 70 Thalern gemiethet zu haben.“ Translation: “The undersigned hereby certifies that he has rented the first floor in No. 20, Große Reitbahngaße, from Mr. Fritsche again from Easter to Michaelis 1847 at the price of 70 Thaler.” Handling wear, else good condition. A one of a kind document signed by Robert Schumann and written by Clara Schumann. Schumann Letter Edition Series II Volume 22 p. 775, online letter database ID 2097.
Price: $ 6,600 / € 5.500
Schumann, Clara (1819-1896)
Autograph letter signed
German pianist, composer and piano teacher. Regarded as one of the most distinguished pianists of the Romantic era. Autograph letter signed “Clara Schumann”. 1p., 5.75 x 8.75 inch, Düsseld(orf), 1879 July 6. Schumann sends her autograph to an admirer. Letter in German, in full: “Gern erfülle ich Ihren Wunsch, indem ich Ihnen meine Unterschrift sende”. Mailing folds, handling wear, pencil note (Clara Schumann) at the top erased, else fine condition.
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Shostakovich, Dmitri (1906-1975)
Scarce autograph letter signed to actor Boris Livanov
Russian composer, pianist and a prominent figure of 20th-century music. Scarce autograph letter signed “D. Shostakovich”. 1p., 5.0 x 7.5 inch, Moscow, 1954 June 17. A fine letter in Russian to Boris N. Livanov. He congratulates him on a high award. With all his heart he wishes that he always stays happy and healthy and continues to enchant "our wonderful people" with his great art. Mailing fold, minor handling wear, else fine condition. Boris Nikolayevich Livanov (1904-1972) was a Soviet and Russian actor and theatre director. People's Artist of the USSR (1948) and a member of the Moscow Art Theatre from 1924 through 1972. Shostakovich is uncommon in handwritten letters and this one is in outstanding condition.
Price: $ 1,800 / € 1.500
Sibelius, Jean (1865-1957)
Photograph signed
Finnish composer and violinist of the late Romantic periods. Photograph signed “Jean Sibelius”. 3.5 x 4.75 inch photograph by Bonney of the composer at his piano. Affixed on cardstock, overall 6.0 x 8.75 inch. No place, no date. Bold and large ink signature below the photograph. Handling wear, else good condition. Sibelius is uncommon in signed photos.
Price: $ 1,260 / € 1.050
Sibelius, Jean (1865-1957)
Typed letter signed
Finnish composer and violinist of the late Romantic and early-modern periods. He is widely recognized as his country's greatest composer. Typed letter signed “Jean Sibelius”. 1p. (bifolium), 5.75 x 8.25 inch, Järvenpää, 1949 December 30. Signed in pencil. To Miss Katharine Cornell. In full: “You have been extremely kind in remembering me again on my birthday with excellent cigars through the American Arts Foundation. The cigars have arrived here in perfect condition and I need not say that they were very welcome. Please accept my warmest thanks for your great kindness. You have made me very happy and proud. With kindest regards and best wishes for the new year.” Mailing folds, handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 900 / € 750
Strauss, Johann (1825-1899)
Carte-de-visite photograph with autograph musical quotation signed
Also known as Johann Strauss, Jr., the Younger. Austrian composer and known as "The Waltz King". Excellent carte-de-visite photograph signed “Johann Strauss”. Carte-de-visite photo, 2.5 x 4.25 inch, no place, no date. Inscribed on verso by Strauss “Fräulein Emilie Tolentino der reizenden Sängerin zur freundlichen Erinnerung an Johann Strauss”. With an autograph musical quotation by Strauss on verso, four bars from the waltz „Wiener Blut” (Vienna blood). Photograph by Schrank & Massak in Vienna, a fine head and shoulders portrait, three-quarter face, showing him in middle age. Fine condition. Wiener Blut “Vienna Blood” Op. 354 is a waltz by Johann Strauss first performed by the composer on 22 April 1873. The new dedication waltz was to celebrate the wedding of the Emperor Franz Joseph I's daughter Archduchess Gisela Louise Maria and Prince Leopold of Bavaria. However, the waltz was also noted by Strauss' biographers as the début of Strauss with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
Price: $ 4,800 / € 4.000
Strauss, Johann (1825-1899)
Impressive signed photograph
Also known as Johann Strauss, Jr., the Younger. Austrian composer and known as "The Waltz King". Impressive signed photograph “Johann Strauss”. Platinotypie, 4.0 x 5.75 inch, on 8.5 x 12.0 inch photographers mount. Inscribed by Strauss in German: „Herzliche Glückwünsche dem verehrten Collegen und Freunde Eduard Kremser zur freundlichen Erinnerung / Johann Strauss". Photograph of a paiting by Leopold Horovitz (Ischl 9. 1891). Photo by J. Löwy, Wien 1897. Slightly discolored, minor handling and corner wear, else good condition. Kremser worked from 1869 to 1899 as choirmaster of the Vienna Men's Singing Association, which, among other things, premiered the waltzes "On the Beautiful Blue Danube" and "Wine, woman and Song". Impressive photograph!
Price: $ 2,760 / € 2.300
Stravinsky, Igor (1882-1971)
Typed letter signed re: his opera “Rake’s Progress”
Russian composer, pianist and conductor, later of French (from 1934) and American (from 1945) citizenship. He is widely considered one of the most important and influential composers of the 20th century and a pivotal figure in modernist music. Typed letter signed “I. Stravinsky”. 1p., 6.5 x 10.25 inch, Hollywood, 1950 June 21. Letter to his attorney Mr. L. Arnold Weissberg in New York. In full: “Thanks for your letter of June 19. As it is likely that Mr. Ricketson will not be very long before contacting you in New-York, I have had a copy made of my contract with Hawkes concerning the “RAKE’S PROGRESS” copy that I am enclosing herewith (not enclosed). Waiting now for the next developments, and expecting to hear from you before long.” Punch holes, mailing folds, handling wear, else good condition. The Rake's Progress is Stravinsky's longest work and is widely considered one of the few great operas composed since the 1920s.
Price: $ 840 / € 700
Toscanini, Arturo (1867-1957)
Signed photograph
Italian conductor, known for his dynamic interpretations of Beethoven, Verdi and Wagner. Fine paper photograph “Arturo Toscanini 6-3-1937”. 5.5 x 9.0 inch, n.p. (Rotterdam), 1937 March 6. Black and white chest up portrait probably removed from a book or program. Minor mounting residue at the top on verso, else good condition. Toscanini had conducted the Residentie-Orkest that day in Rotterdam.
Price: $ 600 / € 500
Verdi, Giuseppe (1813-1901)
Wonderful cabinet-card-photograph signed
Italian composer of operas. Verdi came to dominate the Italian opera scene after the era of Gioachino Rossini, Vincenzo Bellini and Gaetano Donizetti, whose works influenced him and his operas remain extremely popular. Wonderful cabinet-card-photograph signed and inscribed “A Anton Giulio Barrili con simpatia e l'altra stima St Agata 19 Maggio 1892” (“To Anton Giulio Barrili with sympathy and esteem St Agata 19 May 1892”). St Agata (Villa Verdi), 1892 May 19. A fine gold edge photograph marked “SEBASTIANUTTI & BENQUE, MILANO” on the front and on verso. Minor paper loss at the top, else fine condition. Surely one of the finest Verdi signed photographs you can hope to find. Villa Verdi is the estate house that composer Giuseppe Verdi ordered built in 1848 and where he lived from that year until the end of his life. It is in the village of Sant'Agata 3.5 km north of the town of Busseto, which itself lies 4.5 km west-north-west of the tiny village of Le Roncole.
Price: $ 4,800 / € 4.000
Verdi, Giuseppe (1813-1901)
Autograph letter signed in fine condition
Italian composer of operas. Autograph letter signed “G. Verdi”. 1p., bifolium, 4.5 x 7.0 inch, Montecantini, 1891 July 7. Uncommon letter in French, in full: “Monsieur Sauchon, J’ai reçu le Bulletin de compte relevé pour la 168 répartition avril 1891. J’ai reçu aussi le chèque de L. 555:97 pour N. de Sandoz et C., que j’exigerai quand j’irai à Gênes vers la fin de ce mois. Agréez, Mr Sauchon, l’expression de ma considération distinguée”. Translated: “Mr. Sauchon, I received the Account Statement for the 168 distribution April 1891. I also received the check for L. 555:97 for N. de Sandoz and C., which I will demand when I go to Genoa towards the end of this month. Accept, Mr Sauchon, the expression of my distinguished consideration.” Mailing fold, blue pencil note at the top, else fine condition. Verdi visited Montecantini (Italian comune of c. 20,000 inhabitants in the province of Pistoia, in the Italian region of Tuscany) for over 20 years.
Price: $ 2,100 / € 1.750
Wagner, Richard (1813-1883)
Autograph letter signed to one of his students
German composer, theater director and conductor who is primarily known for his operas especially “The Ring of the Nibelung”. Autograph letter signed “Richard Wagner”. 1 page, 5.25 x 8.25 inch, bifolium, no place, no date (about 1860), written and signed in dark black ink. In German: "Meine verehrteste Schülerin! Wollen Sie die Güte haben, mit Vorweisung dieser Karte, baldmöglichst zu Mr. Giacomelli, 5 Rue Geoffroi-Marie Fbg Montm(artre) schicken, so werden Sie das Gewünschte noch erhalten können. Herzlich habe ich mich gefreut von Ihnen ein Lebenszeichen zu erhalten, und würde mit grossen Vergnügen Ihnen diese Freude persönlich mittheilen! Mit den besten Empfehlungen Ihr ergebenster“. Translated: "My dearest student! If you would be so kind to send this card to Mr. Giacomelli, 5 Rue Geoffroi-Marie Fbg Montm(artre) as soon as possible, you will still be able to get what you want. I was very happy to receive a sign of life, and it would be my great pleasure to share this joy with you personally!” Mailing folds, else good condition. The music critic and impresario Adolphe GIACOMELLI (1825?-1893) was an ardent supporter of Wagner, who entrusted him with the organization of his concerts in France and Belgium in 1860.
Price: $ 4,200 / € 3.500
Weber, Carl Maria von (1786-1826)
Handwritten envelope to his wife
German composer, conductor, pianist, guitarist and critic and one of the first significant composers of the Romantic school. Mailing envelope, unsigned, 9.0 x 6.25 inch unfolded, (18)24 July 16 (postmark). Addressed in the hand of Carl Maria von Weber to his wife "Freyfrau Carolina von Weber, Dresden, in Hosterwitz bei Pillnitz.” Vertical on the left side a note in different hand, in German: “Diese Adresse ist von der Hand Carl Maria von Weber’s (an seine Frau) von derselben erhalten. F.W. Zähns“. (This address was written in Carl Maria von Weber’s hand (to his wife) received from the same. F.W. Zähns). With light soiling, handling wear, else fine condition. Accompanied by a fine vintage unsigned postcard photograph of Weber. Caroline Elisabeth Antoinette Brandt, married Caroline von Weber (between 1792/1793 and 1852), was a German stage actor and singer. She married Weber in 1817.
Price: $ 840 / € 700