[Schweitzer, Albert. (1875-1965)] Pauling, Linus. (1901–1994)

Autograph Letter sending 90th Birthday Wishes to Albert Schweitzer

An interesting letter from the American chemist who holds the unique distinction of winning Nobel Prizes in both the Chemistry (1954) and Peace (1962) categories. TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions letterhead, October 8, 1964. Letter to David Blum, the symphonic conductor and writer on classical music who was organizing a tribute to Albert Schweitzer on the occasion of his 90th birthday. In full: "I am delighted to learn that The Ezterhazy Orchestra will pay tribute to the ninetieth birthday of one of the greatest men in the world, Dr. Albert Schweitzer, on 14 January 1965, and I am happy to join with you in honoring Dr. Schweitzer. One of the finest memories that my wife and I have is that of our two-weeks visit to Dr. Schweitzer in his Hospital in Lambarene, five years ago. I remember especially well the interesting discussions of scientific, political, and moral questions that I was privileged to have with Dr. Schweitzer, in his room, nearly every evening during the period of this visit to Lambarene. Please extend to Dr. Schweitzer the congratulations of both my wife and me, on his ninetieth birthday."

A remarkable tribute to the great Alsatian organist, philosopher, theologian and physician who is remembered for his great Bach recordings and his inspiring work as a humanitarian. Schweitzer won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953 for founding the Lambarene Hospital in Gabon, west central Africa

David Blum made a number of recordings, including works by Mozart and Telemann and a series of Haydn symphonies for the Vanguard label, with the Esterhazy Orchestra of New York, which he founded in 1961 and directed until 1969. He was music director of the Lausanne Symphony Orchestra in Switzerland from 1973 to 1982 and of the Geneva Symphony Orchestra, which he also founded, from 1977 to 1986, and conducted many other orchestras as a guest. Mr. Blum devoted his later years to writing, showing a particular fascination with musical performers and their approaches to their art. In addition to three books -- ''Casals and the Art of Interpretation,'' ''The Art of Quartet Playing: The Guarneri Quartet in Conversation With David Blum'' and ''Paul Tortelier'' -- he wrote articles for The New Yorker, The Musical Times, The Strad and the Arts and Leisure section of The New York Times. (11131)
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