98 - DELANNOY (Marcel) (1898–1962)

DELANNOY (Marcel) (1898–1962) French composer and music critic, author of numerous operas and symphonic works. Autograph manuscript titled “Le Poirier de Misère.” No place or date [after 1927]. 4 pp., in-8, in black ink, on sheets of recycled paper with printed borders, with numerous handwritten erasures, corrections, and additions. An interesting autobiographical manuscript written in the third person, devoted to the genesis and creation of his first operatic work, *Le Poirier de Misère*. Marcel Delannoy recounts his early days as a composer, discussing his first melodies and piano pieces, as well as his relationships with Jean Simonin and André de la Tourasse, who inspired the subject of the work. He also reflects on the financial hardships of his early years and his teaching activities. He describes the circumstances surrounding the premiere of *Le Poirier de Misère* on February 21, 1927, conducted by Albert Wolff, and the reception the work received from several prominent figures in the music world, notably Roland-Manuel and Louis Masson. The composer looks back on this first work, highlighting its “powerful candor, spontaneity, awkward freshness, and natural primitivism”—qualities that, in his view, would remain characteristic of his musical language. The manuscript also includes notes on the cast, the key musical moments, and prospects for future performances of the work. A valuable record of Marcel Delannoy’s early career and of French musical life between the two world wars. Numerous autograph corrections, deletions, and revisions. Old creases, a few marginal tears, small stains, and signs of handling.