Solomon, Edward. (1855–1895)

"New March S. S. America" - Autograph Musical Manuscript

Autograph musical manuscript from the English composer of operettas, bearing an apparently unpublished march for piano, as well as a further musical sketch on the verso. The page is headed "New March S. S. America," suggesting that it may have been composed on one of Solomon's transatlantic voyages. 81 measures in E minor, penned over 12 systems and 2 pages. The march's fanfare-like opening leads into an energetic theme, which is contrasted with a more gentle trio in E major. On the verso of the sheet, Solomon has sketched what appears to be another march in F major, beginning with four bars in two staves and then expanding the same theme below to 16 measures of three staves. Folding creases and heavy wear to the sheet, with some edge losses and toning, but legible throughout; overall very good. 10.25 x 13.5 inches (26.3 x 34 cm).

The English composer, conductor and pianist Edward Solomon was born in London and is best-known for his comic operettas, which found success in both London and the United States, and for his marriage to singer and actress Lillian Russell. Their relationship soured as his shows became less successful, and when Russell learned of his first, and undissolved, marriage. Solomon was arrested for bigamy in 1886, but was never convicted—Russell finally obtained a divorce in 1893. Solomon died of typhoid fever in 1895, aged only 39. (16386)

Manuscript Music Classical Music