56 - CLÉMENT (Félix) (1822–1885). French organist, composer, and musicologist. A beautiful, signed autograph letter concerning music education and his *History of Music*.

CLÉMENT (Félix) (1822–1885). French organist, composer, and musicologist. A beautiful, signed autograph letter concerning music education and his *History of Music*. Paris, December 16, 1884. 3 pages in-12, in brown ink, on a double sheet, signed “Félix Clément.” An interesting autograph letter addressed to a woman, presumably in charge of music education, in which Félix Clément responds favorably to a proposal for collaboration while explaining the difficulties he encountered in completing his major work on the history of music. “I am pleased to learn of your recent return and hasten to reply to the letter you have done me the honor of writing. For many years now, I have not been giving lessons in town; given the time required for preparation, and had I not finally completed my major work on the history of music this very year, I would not have been able to respond to your proposal as you wish and as I myself wish. ” The musicologist then mentions the need to continue the musical education of a young student: “First of all, so as not to leave Mademoiselle Bartoli’s musical education unfinished, and second, because an opportunity has arisen to teach harmony to a diligent student and thus train a musician who can distinguish herself. ” He specifies his availability and proposes harmony lessons, preferably in the morning, while discussing the organization of the classes and the obligations of his correspondents. This letter, written a few months before his death, provides a particularly interesting account of Félix Clément’s final teaching activities and the importance he placed on the musical education of women. Félix Clément (1822–1885), an organist, choirmaster, and music historian, served notably as choirmaster at Saint-Augustin and Saint-Louis-d’Antin. As the author of several works on religious music and music history, he contributed to the dissemination of musical culture in the 19th century. His *History of Music from Ancient Times to the Present Day*, published in 1885, remains one of his major works. A beautiful letter from the final year of Félix Clément’s life, in which he reflects on the completion of his musicological work alongside his activities as a teacher of harmony. In good overall condition. Traces of old creases, a few small foxing spots, and slight signs of age. Fine, even handwriting; signature well preserved.