Thalberg, Sigismund. (1812-1871) [Lind, Jenny. (1820-1887) ]
Autograph Letter Signed regarding Revolution and Jenny Lind
ALS from the Paris-based pianist and composer to the music publisher Eugene Troupenas (1799-1850) in Paris. London, August 1, 1848. 3 pp. Large bifolium, with address, postmark and wax seal to the fourth. Usual folds, a few small stains and tiny hole or tears, overall fine. Translated from the French, in part:"I have received your good letter of July 17. Mr. Masset wrote me that I will receive the 50 Pounds sterling that Mr. Lumley owed me. I talked to Mr. Lumley about this, who answered me that he was ready to return them to me in exchange for a receipt from Mr. Masset. I wrote to the latter, but as I haven't seen an answer after, I am turning to you in order to obtain a receipt without which it is impossible for me to receive the above sum. I am glad to see that the heads in France are calming, but will that last? Here, the rioters have no chance, and right now they are going to be sent to Ireland to teach them a lesson. The season was not very great for artists without permanent employment, but as to myself, I should not complain, and as I have the intention of installing myself in this country, I hope at least to find something to make a living. It is Jenny Lind who has all ears and all wallets for herself. Never before did an artist rule over the public to such an extent, but for that matter, it is well deserved..." Slight cutout at outer edge of second leaf. 9.75 x 8 inches (24.5 x 20 cm).
While Thalberg's comments on the French revolutionaries of 1848 and the celebrated soprano Jenny Lind (1820-1887) are self-explanatory, "Mr. Lumley" and "Mr. Masset" remain unidentified at this point.
"Together with Liszt, Thalberg must be ranked as the greatest virtuoso pianist of the mid-19th century..." (Grove Online) (3949)
Autograph Letter Classical Music