Description:

Johannes Brahms
Vienna, Austria, n.d.
Johannes Brahms ALS to Fellow Composer, Fantastic Musical Content
ALS

A fine, content-rich autograph letter signed by Johannes Brahms (1833-1897), written in German and signed in the lower right as "J. Brahms", concerning an invitation to appear for a musical engagement. 1p on postcard, 4.75" x 3.5", Vienna, undated (ca. after 1864). Hand addressed on the verso to German pianist and conductor Franz Wüllner of Munich. Within, the composer inquires about rehearsals and references Felix Otton Dessoff (1835-1892), a fellow conductor and trusted colleague. The card has been postmarked in two places on verso, with isolated strip of toning along right edge, not affecting text. Exhibits light discoloration and faint handling marks throughout. Small crease in the upper left. Else, very good to near fine.

Roughly translated through the use of A.I. in part:

"…with the greatest pleasure I accept your kind invitation, and shall gladly appear on Sunday the 2nd, provided nothing unforeseen intervenes. I will arrive Saturday evening and intend to stay two days. Kindly arrange for my accommodation at the hotel on Philipp Spitta in Sonderhausen.
Please let me know whether rehearsals are planned. Herr Dessoff in Vienna with perhaps already have spoken with you. Should it be necessary, I will gladly bring with me the works that are to be performed."

Franz Wüllner (1832-1902) was a German composer and conductor. He led the premieres of Wagner's 'Das Rheingold' and 'Die Walküre', but was much criticized by Wagner himself, who greatly preferred the more celebrated conductors Hans von Bülow (1830-1894) and Hermann Levi (1839-1900).

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 4.75" x 3.5"
  • Medium: ALS

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