Debussy, Claude. (1862–1918) & Mallarmé, Stéphane. (1842–1898) & Demeurisse, René. (1895–1961) [Norman, Jessye. (1945–2019)]
Prelude a l'après-midi d'un faune - FROM THE COLLECTION OF JESSYE NORMAN
[Paris]: [Rombaldi]. [1943]. A rare publication relating to Debussy's beloved symphonic poem, from the collection of the magnificent soprano Jessye Norman. The volume contains a color facsimile of Debussy's manuscript and 13 fine lithographs by René Demeurisse. Unbound, as issued. Original printed wrappers and glassine. Glassine toned; internally very fine, and overall in very good condition. 10.5 x 13.5 inches (26.5 x 34 cm).Together with: Mallarmé, Stéphane. Le Reveil du Faune. Paris: Rombaldi, 1944. Number 46 of 140 copies. An unfinished group of poems originally intended to follow the Après-Midi d'un Faune, illustrated with 21 lithographs by René Demeurisse in the text and on the cover (2 full page). Unbound, as issued, with original printed wrappers and glassine, in chemise and slipcase. Slight wear to the spine of the chemise; slipcase damaged with front panel and one side panel detached, and heavy toning. Internally very fine; slipcase fair. 10.5 x 13.5 inches (26.5 x 34 cm).
One of Debussy's most famous works, the composition was inspired by the poem L'après-midi d'un faune by Stéphane Mallarmé and is considered a turning point in the history of music; Pierre Boulez considered the score to be the beginning of modern music, observing that "the flute of the faun brought new breath to the art of music." About his composition Debussy wrote: "The music of this prelude is a very free illustration of Mallarmé's beautiful poem. By no means does it claim to be a synthesis of it. Rather there is a succession of scenes through which pass the desires and dreams of the faun in the heat of the afternoon. Then, tired of pursuing the timorous flight of nymphs and naiads, he succumbs to intoxicating sleep, in which he can finally realize his dreams of possession in universal Nature."
The legendary soprano Jessye Norman is especially noted for her recordings of French chanson and opera, leaving well-regarded recordings of Debussy's L'enfant prodigue and his Deux Romances. (15068)
Book Opera Dance Classical Music