153 - ESCUDIER (Marie-Pierre) (1818–1880), French journalist, music critic, and publisher; founder, along with his brother Léon, of the magazine *La France musicale*.

ESCUDIER (Marie-Pierre) (1818–1880), French journalist, music critic, and publisher; founder, along with his brother Léon, of the magazine *La France musicale*. Autograph manuscript signed “Marie Escudier,” titled “The Power of Music.” Paris, February 15, 1861. 1 page, in-8 format, on embossed paper. A charming literary piece devoted to the power of music, featuring a musician and the inhabitants of Mecca. “Once upon a time in Mecca, there was a great musical contest. Moussa (or Moussa) came to take his place among the competitors. He listened with admirable patience to the marvelous performances of his rivals, after which he picked up his lute and played a tune full of cheerfulness;—all the inhabitants of Mecca began to laugh...” The story continues with a description of several successive tunes, each in turn provoking laughter, tears, and finally a deep sleep among the listeners. “Seeing this, the great musician set his lute down in the middle of the assembly and slipped away after writing these words: ‘The musician Moussa [...] has had his fill of Mecca.’” A delightful anecdote illustrating the power of music over human emotions, reflecting Marie Escudier’s literary and musical tastes. Marie and Léon Escudier played an important role in the French music press and publishing world in the 19th century. Their magazine *La France musicale* contributed in particular to the dissemination and promotion of Giuseppe Verdi’s works. Entirely autograph manuscript, dated and signed. A few slight signs of handling.