Koussevitzky, Serge. (1874-1951) & Golovanov, Nikolai Semyonovich. (1891 -1953)
1919 Russian Program including the Double Bass Concerto
A rare 1919 Russian program featuring the eminent Russian conductor, composer and double-bass virtuoso, before his immigration to the US and his long tenure as Music Director for the Boston Symphony Orchestra (1924-1949), founding of the Tanglewood Festival and mentoring to many American musicians, including Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland. 4 pp. The program featured Koussevitzky in the first half, performing his own Double Bass Concerto, Op. 3 under the baton of the young Nikolai Golovanov, who also lead performances of Rimsky-Korsakov's Introduction & Wedding March from the Golden Cockerel and his own Prelude to Oscar Wilde's Salome. The second half was conducted by Koussevitzky, leading Scriabin's Le Poème de l'extase, Op. 54. Small tear to left edge, general toning, overall fine condition.Although known for his long tenure as music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra from 1924 to 1949, Koussevitzky started out as a touring double-bass virtuoso. Sometime between 1902 and 1905, he composed a concerto for his instrument, possibly with the help of Reinhold Glière. The work, instead of following the most progressive tendencies of its time is a ripe example of Russian romanticism. Koussevitzky dedicated the concerto to his fiancée and gave its premiere in Moscow, and he played it subsequently in Germany, Paris, and Boston. (21662)
Signed Photograph Classical Music