Berio, Luciano. (1925–2003)

"Sequenza IV" - Autograph Musical Quotation with Typed Letter Signed

Autograph musical quotation from the important composer, who has written one measure of "a little sketch of 'Sequenza IV' for piano." Together with an accompanying typed letter signed dated Weehawken, N.J., March 3, 1970, and original airmail envelope. Translated from the German: "Dear Mr. Ruf, I have received your letter of February 2. Your request is, as you say, a very curious one. Naturally I am not accustomed to send someone something that I meant to throw away; but for you I have found a little sketch of 'Sequenza IV' for piano. I hope that this little thing will be useful to you. Yours, Luciano Berio." Autograph musical fragment in heavy pencil on a small slip of manuscript paper with toning and light folding crease, 7.75 x 2.75 inches (19.5 x 6 cm); letter 8.5 x 11 inches (21 x 27.8 cm). Overall fine.

Sequenza IV for solo piano (composed in 1965–66, revised in 1993) is the fourth in a series of Sequenze by Luciano Berio for different solo instruments. Commissioned to be performed at Washington University, the demanding work calls for constantly changing chords, tremolo-like passages, dramatic dynamics, and some notes played with the palm of the hand. (16313)

AMQS Classical Music