85 - 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 in Paris. Autograph letter signed “Vincent d’Indy,” addressed to Narcisse Brument, conductor and librettist. Valence, October 5, 1897. 2½ pp. in-8, in black ink, on mourning paper with a black border. An interesting letter in which Vincent d'Indy declines an offer to conduct an orchestra, citing his musical commitments and his desire to preserve his artistic independence. The composer explains that his successive travels prevented him from replying sooner to his correspondent and politely declines the offer made to him: “A series of trips prevented me from replying immediately to your kind letter containing an equally kind proposal, which would appeal to me greatly if I expected to be somewhat settled in Paris. ” He notes that he must soon travel to Munich, then to Karlsruhe, and perhaps to Vienna, and that under these circumstances, he cannot assume the responsibility of musical direction: “Under these circumstances, I do not believe it is possible for me to assume the responsibility of directing (even in an artistic capacity) concerts. ” He adds, however, that he would gladly participate in the project as a musician: “It goes without saying that I have not and will not speak to anyone about your kind proposal, so that if you offer the same thing to another musician, he will not be aware that I was the first to be approached. ” A fine piece of correspondence attesting to Vincent d’Indy’s international activity in the late 19th century, his connections with the concert world, and his exacting view of artistic responsibilities. Some old creases and minor signs of handling. Mourning paper and a beautiful autograph signature.