72 - D'INDY (Vincent) (1851–1931)

D'INDY (Vincent) (1851–1931) French composer and educator, a student of César Franck and co-founder of the Schola Cantorum. Autograph letter signed “Vincent d’Indy,” addressed to musicologist Julien Tiersot. Chabret [Boffres, Ardèche], August 24, 1889. 3 pp. in-12, in black ink. Envelope with postage and postmarks preserved. A charming and lengthy letter of friendship in which Vincent d’Indy thanks Julien Tiersot for sending him a book and humorously recounts his travels in Germany. The composer explains that he was just about to order the book from his correspondent when he received it: “I received your book at the very moment when, knowing it had been published, I was about to write to a bookseller to have it sent to me; you’ve let me know—that’s very kind of you, and I sincerely thank you.” He then recalls with amusement a joint excursion to the Feldberg, accompanied by singing—notably “O du, lieber Augustin”—and fond memories of their friendship: “It’s true that once we’ve climbed the Feldberg together and sung ‘O du, lieber Augustin,’ we owe each other a great deal of courtesy.” He also mentions an excursion to the Witterstein in Germany and regrets his correspondent’s absence during that trip. The letter concludes with some personal news and reflections on his reading and musical work. A lovely exchange of letters attesting to the friendship between two important figures in late 19th-century French music, blending travel memories, humor, and intellectual discourse. Some old creases, slight signs of handling. Envelope with a 15-centime stamp and postmarks from Ardèche.