Godowsky, Leopold. (1870–1938)
Signed Photograph to the editor of his "Progressive Exercises"
Rare signed photograph from the Polish American pianist, composer, and teacher who was one of the most highly regarded performers of his time, inscribed to fellow pianist Frederic Lillebridge. Godowsky is shown seated in an armchair and has penned on the mount below the image: "Mr Frederic Lillebridge in remembrance of the hours spent together on the Progressive series, with best and sincere regards. Leopold Godwosky / Bad Ischl, Aug. 14 1912." Photograph by Ivan der Ryk, Rotterdam. Rather heavy wear to the mount, with cracks and a corner loss; scattered dings to the image; overall good. 10 x 12.25 inches (25.2 x 31.3 cm).A self-taught child prodigy from what is now Lithuania, Godowsky toured Europe before becoming a renowned teacher in the United States. He was known for his theories concerning the application of relaxed weight and economy of motion in piano playing, principles later propagated by his pupils, such as Heinrich Neuhaus. Ferruccio Busoni said that he and Godowsky were the only composers to have added anything of significance to keyboard writing since Franz Liszt.
Frederic Lillebridge, an American pianist, composer and professor at the New York College of Music, also served as the Executive Editor of Godowsky's well-known piano method, Progressive Exercises. (17370)
Signed Photograph Classical Music