Bernstein, Leonard. (1918–1990) [Monteux, Pierre. (1875–1964)]
Facsimile Autograph Letter to Monteux
Color facsimile, printed in red, of an autograph letter from Bernstein to the older "Maître," dated March 29, 1962. Writing after an interview with Monteux was published in the Washington Post in which he called Bernstein "the most all round talented musician today," Bernstein says he was "deeply touched" by his remarks. "...I had no idea you valued me so highly as a composer: this was a thrill to read. And you are so right about the lack of time: I have written literally nothing in five years, since West Side Story!! Alas..." A very detailed facsimile in fine condition. 8.5 x 11 inches (21.6 x 28 cm). From the estate of Monteux's daughter, Nancie Monteux Barendse.Perhaps Monteux valued Bernstein more as a composer than as a conductor, for in an earlier letter of August 6, 1945 to his wife, he reported on Bernstein: "He conducts like an epileptic, in the lyric passages he makes faces as he was going to come, conducts without baton, poses all the time, everything for the public, nothing for the men... But he is a nice young man..." (John Canarina: Pierre Monteux, Maître, p. 188). (The 1962 letter is quoted in full in John Canarina's biography, p. 269.) (13782)
Autograph Letter Classical Music