761 - RICHARD STRAUSS (1864-1949)

RICHARD STRAUSS (1864-1949) Autograph letter signed ‘Dr Richard Strauss’, to Pauline Viardot ‘Hoch geehrte Frau’ (Dear Madam) ABOUT ROSSINI’S ‘IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA’ Charlottenburg [Berlin,] 4 November 1905 [?] On headed letter-paper. 1 p. In German. 17.9 x 11.4 cm A letter of major interest, addressed to the great French mezzo-soprano Pauline Viardot (1821-1910), whose father Manuel Garcia had created the role of Almaviva in Rossini’s ‘Il barbiere di Siviglia’. ‘...Ich beabsichtige demnächst Rossini’s Barbier möglichst stylrein u. nach Rossini’s Intentionen hier neu einzustudiren...’ Letter informing Viardot of his intention to perform ‘Il barbiere’ and requesting advice concerning the performance of coloratura, asking her whether it would be faithful to the composer’s intentions to perform the work according to the original score or whether Rossini himself used or accepted coloratura versions of the vocal parts by other musicians (especially that of Rosina), such as were first employed by Adelina Patti. Provenance: Formerly in the collection of Martine Le Cesne, Pauline Viardot’s great-great-granddaughter, and her husband André Le Cesne. Upon the buyer’s request, we are pleased to provide a general condition report for the Lot described above. However, as we are not professional conservators or restorers, we strongly advise prospective buyers to conduct their own inspection or consult a specialist or restorer of their choice for a comprehensive professional assessment. Any condition descriptions provided in the catalogue or through any correspondence are for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for a firsthand evaluation. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD ‘AS IS’ IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE PUBLISHED IN THE CATALOGUE.