Herbert, Victor. (1859-1924)
Archive of 28 Letters and Signed Music
A fine and revealing archive from the American conductor and composer, written late in life, comprising 28 autograph letters and 2 pieces of signed sheet music. In December 1922, Herbert began a correspondence with Marie Duval, an aspiring singer working as a chorus girl in Baltimore. In the present collection of letters to her, Herbert displays a fatherly, affectionate spirit, and counsels her on such various topics as her voice, her grammar, and future prospects, while also discussing his own successes. The letters, dating from Dec. 13, 1922 to Dec. 21, 1923, generally 1 p. 8vo each, are written on various letterhead, including that of the Lambs Club. Although in the letters Herbert is primarily concerned with helping Duval secure a place in his, or another, show in New York through his own NY agent, Mr. Kraft, he also discusses his work and life at several points. In small part: "[Dec. 17, 1922]...It's strange that your friend knew my dear old mother. She was a wonderful woman, fine musician, wrote and spoke four languages, had an education such as no one seems to have now...She was the only living child of my famous grandfather Samuel Lover....Please remember all the various 'points' I gave you for your studies and think of me sometimes!....[Dec. 17, 1922] How do you the 'Indian Dream On' as a song?....Drop me a line when you find time....[Jan. 21, 1923] I'm on deck again O.K! Glad to hear you are improving steadily....I'll find out about 'The Kiss in the Dark'. In as much as the piece stopped last night (nothing but bad luck -- several principals sick, etc. etc. -- the cause) I don't think there could be any objection to your singing it...[Jan. 25, 1923] Mr. Kraft of Kraft Attractions 1658 Broadway is my manager and he does a good deal of business with singers...I'll see that you get 'The Kiss in the Dark'...before I go to Phil. where I conduct next week at the Stanley...[Feb. 10, 1923] Had wonderful success in Phil. last week! -- beating my best record by $5,000.00!!! How's that? Kraft could help you with the 'Stanley People'...I'll have to hear you again, and find out if you have improved, before I can advise you....How was the German opera?...[Feb. 27, 1923] I am glad you like 'Tristan' so much. It's a good sign, for it shows that you are deeply musical...[April 27, 1923] Of course I'll send you 'Yester Thoughts'. Will you promise to play it?...I'm afraid you'll weaken when it comes to the middle part...[April 30, 1923] Mr. Kraft did try to get you into the 'Dream Girl' now (now running in Atlantic City)....but did not have success. I have no pull with that firm and nothing to do with planning the piece with that firm...[May 24, 1923] I hope it isn't your 'looks' that make them retain you! (This sounds extraordinary, but I mean it!) Wish I could drop in there once and see you work...Don't...talk much to the other girls. Women are such rats! [June 19, 1923] Any day I could see you out here, between the aft. concerts...[July 1, 1923] Spoke to Mr. Kraft. He thinks you are very charming and wants to introduce you to Mr. Dillingham...I said the nicest things about you...and told him I was sure you would 'make good'..." Together with two printed , signed pieces of sheet music, each inscribed to Duval: "Gypsy Love Song" and "Dream On." Finally, there is a TLS by H. S. Kraft to Duval, 1 p. 8vo., New York, Feb. 24, 1924, informing her that she is being considered for a part in Herbert's show. Ironically, it is unlikely that Duval ever made her debut as part of Herbert's entourage, as the composer died just two months later, on May 26, 1924. An interesting grouping, deserving of further research and generally in fine condition. (7581)Autograph Letter Classical Music