"The 'Papillons' of Schumann...is in my opinion a finer composition than the 'Carnaval'" - Autograph Letter

An interesting autograph letter from the English violinist-turned-pianist, founder of the Beethoven Association and longtime professor at the Manhattan School of Music. New York, January 26, 1924. Writing to a Miss Hillard, Bauer discusses the details of the program for a piano recital he will perform. [Text below.] 2 pp. Light overall toning and one paperclip mark; overall fine. 8.5 x 11 inches (21.6 x 28 cm).

Text, in part:
"My dear Miss Hillard, Your letter sent to Mr. Coppicus [artists' manager and later General Secretary of the Metropolitan Opera] in reference to my program has ony now come to my attention, as I have been travelling too rapidly for mail to reach me, and, being unable to understand your remark respecting the grade of this program, I have waited to consult with Mr. Whiting before replying, for I do not see the possibility of following the lines of a chamber music concert, such as you mention, in giving a piano recital.
Mr. Whiting thinks that one of the later works of Beethoven would be more acceptable than the 'Sonata Pathetique' so I shall be very happy to substitute the Sonata in C minor, opus 111, for this number. I regret my inability to include either the Brahms Variations or the Cesar Franck work which you suggest, as I have not played these compositions for some time and have no opportunity to prepare them at present. The 'Papillons' of Schumann (which is on the program sent to you) is in my opinion a finer composition than the 'Carnaval.' I shall also be happy to include Ravel 'Jeux d'Eau' in place of the 'Motley' of the 18th century tunes which I understand you desire to hear, and with these changes I trust that the program will now meet with your approval, as it does that of Mr. Whiting.
The corrected version stands therefore as follows..."

The wonderful English musician Harold Bauer, who began as a successful violinist, later had a major career as a pianist. A student of Paderewski, he premiered Debussy's "Children's Corner" and after settling in the US, founded the Beethoven Association and taught for many years at the Manhattan School of Music. (15285)

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Autograph Letter

Classical Music

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