[Liszt, Franz. (1811–1886)] Zöllner, Henrich. (1854–1941) [Eichberg, Oskar. (1845–1898)]
Autograph Letter on a Postcard
An interesting early autograph letter from the German composer and conductor to colleague Oskar Eichberg, dealing with plans for a meeting of a musical organization in which they were both members and mentioning a great Liszt celebration in Leipzig, which he suggests Eichberg and the other members should attend. Indicating that Eichberg had a connection to Liszt (having given his oratorio Die Legende der Heiligen Elisabeth its Berlin premiere the previous year), he mentions that "If Liszt is interested, his interest and seal of approval would be very much appreciated." Full translation below. Penned densely on a postcard, postmarked Leipzig, 1875. One vertical crease, mounting remnants, light overall toning; otherwise in fine condition. 5.5 x 3.5 inches (13.9 x 9 cm).Son of composer Carl Friedrich Zöllner, Heinrich Zöllner "studied music at the Leipzig Conservatory (1875–7)...From 1890 to 1898 he lived in the USA, where he conducted the Deutscher Liederkranz in New York; his festival cantata Die neue Welt was awarded a prize at the 1892 Cleveland Sängerfest. On his return to Leipzig, he succeeded Kretzschmar as director of music at the university and conducted the Paulus male choir; in 1902 he was Reinecke’s successor as professor of composition at the conservatory, and from 1903 music editor of the Leipziger Tageblatt...Zöllner’s prolific output includes ten operas, several large-scale works for chorus and orchestra, symphonies, overtures, piano music and numerous smaller vocal pieces. He wrote many works for male chorus, a medium popularized by his father, but showed a preference for large forms and forces by adding a full orchestral accompaniment. His most successful opera, Die versunkene Glocke, was revived frequently up to 1939." (Deane L. Root, Grove Online.)
Translated from the German: "For today a quick and hurried note, that I've wanted to write for more than 8 days, but only when I had first got the lay of the land. I have only managed to establish the inconvenient times. There will probably be no one of us here all August, and the second half of July is also uncertain, so: early to mid July or from the beginning of September on would be good times. 2) Nothing particular on our side. My wishes are simply to accomplish the various proposals which have already been discussed often enough, and that seems to be over T.'s dead body?! So in every respect, Leipzig alone seems advisable, and because of the great general fatigue, this time without a great song and dance, we must restrict ourselves to meeting in the smallest circles and reappraise the rest as much as possible. The big Liszt celebration is on the 20th. How would it be, if you all came over here for that? Then the Directorium, etc., would be together. Everyone could be accommodated, of course, if we arrange it soon. When one asks too much, one receives too many answers. Give me a brief answer about this date. If Liszt is interested, his interest and seal of approval would be very much appreciated. R...C. will probably answer you apathetically. In any case, whether he answers or not, it would be best to come to him with a fait accompli and tell him about this date, with the mention that this time no preparations are necessary, rather it would be just getting the business done with no fuss. But since I am persona ingrata, don't mention that I suggested it. Perhaps I can get things moving in the same vein with K. in the next few days. Looking forward to more with best wishes, yours, Dr. Z." (13802)
Autograph Letter Classical Music