Description

Description: Italian-born opera composer Leoncavallo (1857-1919) produced his most remembered work, "Pagliacci," in 1892. This two page letter written in French and dated August 17, 1898 thanks a musician who transcribed musical themes from 17th and 18th century French Baroque dances. He probably used these themes in his opera "Der Roland von Berlin." He writes: 

Dear Master,

I would like to thank you personally for your kindness towards me. The old themes you had the great courtesy of transcribing are very interesting and precious. I’m putting my heart and soul into [the 120th loure*]. I am trying my best to present my work in Berlin next year. It will be a piece worthy of Germany, a great country that welcomed me as one of its sons, a piece worthy of its subject and the person who inspired me.

I hope to see you soon, dear Master. Thank you.

Yours truly,

R. Leoncavallo

To Master W. [Coppert*]

Framed with a portrait to 13" x 16". This is a two-sided frame with glass on both sides so that the first page of the letter can be read. A full transcript is included. Item #A00222.

Condition: Fine.