Primrose, William. (1904–1982) [Wieniawski, Henryk. (1835–1880)]
Caprice op. 18, no. 3, arr. Primrose - Autograph Musical Manuscript
Autograph musical manuscript from the leading violist of his time, a member of the London String Quartet and the NBC Symphony under Toscanini who later embarked on an unprecedented successful solo career as violist. Here he has arranged Wieniawski's Caprice, op. 18, no. 3, originally for two violins, for viola and piano, transposing the work down by a fifth and adding a sparse, mostly chordal accompaniment. Viola part penned in a very small and precise hand, with piano part in a larger hand below. Small additions and changes have been made throughout to the piano part in pencil, including dynamics, tempo markings, articulations, and note changes. Signed on the cover. 5 pp. on 3 sheets of manuscript paper, which have been taped together into a makeshift binding. Corner creases, with some further tape repairs to the corners, showing evidence of performance use, a few small edge tears and light toning. Overall in very good condition. 9.5 x 12 inches (23.8 x 30.4 cm). Autograph manuscripts from the celebrated violist are of the utmost rarity.Primrose was known for his brilliant technique, and adapted several virtuosic violin works for the viola, including Paganini's violin caprices. On hearing him perform these, Mischa Elman is said to have exclaimed, "It must be easier on viola!" (15914)
Manuscript Music Classical Music