97 - DELANNOY (Marcel) (1898–1962)

DELANNOY (Marcel) (1898–1962) French composer and music critic. Autograph manuscript concerning his opera *Le Fou de la Dame*. No place or date [circa 1930]. 3 pp., in-8, in black ink, with numerous autograph erasures, corrections, and additions. An interesting working manuscript in which Marcel Delannoy reflects on the genesis of his opera *Le Fou de la Dame*, which premiered at the Opéra-Comique on June 2, 1930, and shares his thoughts on the renewal of opera. In particular, he discusses his collaborations with André de la Tourasse and Jean Simonin, as well as the reception his work received from Ravel and Roussel. He elaborates on his vision of a musical theater free from traditional forms, blending jazz, archaic melodies, recitatives, and ensemble pieces: “He detests ‘theatrical’ filler.” The manuscript contains numerous corrections, deletions, and revisions, reflecting the development of his musical thought and his desire to clarify the circumstances surrounding the creation of his work. An interesting account of the evolution of French opera between the two world wars. Some old creases, small marginal tears, and a few signs of handling.