Gabrilowitsch, Ossip. (1878-1936)
Typed Letter Signed
Typed letter signed from the Russian-born American pianist, conductor and composer to Frederick H. Comstock of the Oratorio Society of New York, regretting that he is unable to accept a position with the ensemble. May 11, 1912. 1 p. Gabrilowitsch writes: "Dear Sir, Your cable arrived this morning and a few hours later came your letter of April 30th. I immediately cabled you as follows: 'Regret, impossible. Gabrilowitsch.' I am writing now to say that I greatly appreciate your offer, knowing as I do what an excellent organization the Oratorio Society of New York is. I am extremely sorry that my present concert-work in Europe makes it impossible for me to settle in New York, as would be necessary if I were to accept the position. I know it would be a great artistic pleasure to work with your splendid chorus and I should have been greatly tempted to accept the offer if it had not necessitated my cancelling my European engagements. Very sincerely yours, Ossip Gabrilowitsch." Folding creases, one small split and some toning; overall very good. 8.5 x 11 inches (22 x 28.5 cm).A student of Rubinstein, Lyadov, Glazunov and others, Gabrilowitsch was one of the first to record for the reproducing piano Welte-Mignon (1905) and had a major career as piano soloist. From 1910-14, he was conductor of the Munich Konzertverein and later settled in the US, appointed the founding director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in 1918. In 1909, he married Mark Twain's daughter, Clara Clemens, a singer who appeared with him in recital. (17205)
Classical Music TLS