Cortot, Alfred. (1877–1962)
Autograph Letter regarding new long-playing records
A very interesting letter from the great French pianist, mentioning Belgian pianist Emile Bosquet and expressing his pleasure that the new long-playing records will allow musicians to play at more comfortable tempos! Lausanne, January 4, 1950. To a Mr. Van der Spek in Brussels, Cortot writes (translated from the French): "The new method of recording you spoke to me about was in fact brought to my attention in England, but I was also informed that it will undoubtedly be necessary to await the exhaustion of the old discs before being able to benefit by the progress which will allow music to no longer be forced to lie on Procrustes' bed because of timing limits!" (Full text below.) 3 pp., very neatly penned on a bifolium, in very fine condition. Together with the original envelope. 6 x 8.25 inches (15.5 x 21 cm).Translated from the French, in full:
"Dear sir and friend,
It was actually in Lausanne that I received your kind end-of-year message. Would you be so kind as to thank Bosquet for me for the pains he took to request a copy of the Polonaise by Chopin meant for me? It goes without saying that he or you will let me know what I owe for the set-up of the photo.
The success won by your friend is not only an appropriate token of the admiring gratitude that is owed to his magnificent talent and unequalled musicality. I regret not having been a member of his audience!
The new method of recording you spoke to me about was in fact brought to my attention in England, but I was also informed that it will undoubtedly be necessary to await the exhaustion of the old discs before being able to benefit by the progress which will allow music to no longer be forced to lie on Procrustes' bed because of timing limits!
I will be delighted to see and hear Madame Fontigny, whether in Paris, in June (the 32 sonatas by Beethoven) or in Lausanne (Schumann). Would you present my respects to her and believe me, dear sir and friend, very sincerely yours,
Alfred Cortot."
In Greek mythology, Procrustes or "the stretcher [who hammers out the metal]" was a rogue smith and bandit from Attica who physically attacked people by stretching them or cutting off their legs, so as to force them to fit the size of an iron bed. (15299)
Autograph Letter Classical Music