Stravinsky, Igor. (1882–1971) [Dushkin, Samuel. (1891–1976)]
Signed Letter to Dushkin about a recent Mozart biography
Interesting and spirited autograph letter from the composer to the violinist with whom he frequently performed and for whom he wrote his Violin Concerto (1931) and the Duo Concertante (1932). 16 July, 1943. 1 p. on Stravinsky's personal stationery, signed in ink with his initials and with an insertion and four lines in holograph script. Together with the original envelope. From the collection of Dushkin's grandaughter.Translated from the French, in part: "I've only just finished the MOZART of Marcia Davenport and I've been thinking about our conversation on this subject the other day in New York. Now that I've read it completely (about 400 pages) I understand well the foundations of your critcism and I withdraw my confidence in this author. In my defense, I must say that before I'd only read 80 or 100 pages of the book. It is a mediocre 'arrangement' of biographical material carefully picked up here and there. This material serves as the pretext for lyrical expanses and admiring gestures which never escape the usual banalities one is accustomed to hearing about any old 'chef d'oeuvre' of classical music. Furthermore, as it became clear, her Mozart is nothing but a rococo porcelain doll to decorate a window of a defender of a "Symphony" and of Mr. Rodzinski...." He goes on to discuss the matter of a contract for a "world premiere," and adds a postscript by hand reporting that "this week I conduct chez Hurok at the Hollywood Bowl Petrouchka with the Ballet Theater, last Tuesday and tomorrow, Saturday."
An important letter discussing Marcia Davenport's 1932 "Mozart," the first published American biography of the composer. (9353)
Signature Classical Music