30 - BRUNEAU (Alfred) (1857–1934) *L'Attaque du moulin* and *Messidor*. He had his first opera, *Kérim*, performed in 1887.

BRUNEAU (Alfred) (1857–1934) *L'Attaque du moulin* and *Messidor*. He had his first opera, *Kérim*, performed in 1887. French composer and conductor. A leading figure in musical naturalism and a close collaborator of Émile Zola, whose works he adapted for the opera stage, notably *Le Rêve*, *L'Attaque du moulin*, and *Messidor*. He premiered his first opera, *Kérim*, in 1887. B.A.S. “Alfred Bruneau” to “Dear Friend.” Sunday, 5:30 a.m. [undated]. 1 page, in-8 format, on mourning paper, mounted on a black backing. A lovely letter regarding a meeting and the preparation of a libretto. The composer warmly thanks his correspondent for a meeting that left him with a particularly favorable impression: “Excellent, very excellent impression, dear friend! A man who is extremely approachable, deeply impressed, and determined to embrace contemporary styles. ” He expresses his desire to quickly continue the work he has begun and offers to send a detailed libretto: “I will come tomorrow, Monday morning, to bring you the libretto and tell you the details of this meeting, which went as well as possible.” An interesting account of the preparation for a stage production and Alfred Bruneau’s directorial concerns, particularly the choice of contemporary costumes. Autograph letter signed in black ink. Very slight signs of wear.