Rachmaninoff, Sergei. (1873–1943)

Signed Letter to Sergei Barsukov

TLS, signed in cyrillic "S. Rachmaninoff." 1 page, on the composer's 33 Riverside Drive, NY letterhead. 21 April, 1923. Fold creases, light toning and staining around the edges, overall very good. The letter in Russian, interestingly written in pre-revolutionary spelling (with lots of extra letters that Lenin's reforms had officially dropped by this date), translated as follows:



Dear [lit. much-esteemed] Mr Barsukov:



Forgive me if I turn down your request. It is true, I never do this, no matter in what case, or for whom. I hope that you yourself will accompany well [even] without my indications, which are so difficult and unpleasant to make.



Your most obedient servant [lit: With esteem for you]

S. Rakhmaninov"



Sold together with a program dated August, 1923 on which Barsukov performed three Rachmaninoff songs with Mezzo "Mrs. Winthrop Gardiner". The letter is addressed to pianist and composer (and aviation instructor for the U.S. Armed Forces!), Sergei Barsukov (1912 - ?) who had evidently written to Rachmaninoff asking for a coaching! (9578)
Signature
Classical Music