CORTOT (Alfred) (1877–1962). Franco-Swiss pianist, conductor - Lot 68

CORTOT (Alfred) (1877–1962). Franco-Swiss pianist, conductor, and educator. One of the most illustrious pianists of the 20th century and founder of the École normale de musique de Paris. Typewritten letter signed “Alf Cortot,” addressed to the Portuguese composer Francisco de Lacerda (1859–1934). Paris, May 27, 1932. 2 pages, in-8 format, on personal letterhead “alf. Cortot - 79, avenue Henri-Martin.” Autograph signature in black ink. A very interesting letter devoted to the Paris premiere of Francisco de Lacerda’s *Trovas*, their performance by Madeleine Grey, and a musical program featuring Brahms, Prokofiev, and Jacques Ibert. Alfred Cortot informs his correspondent of the difficulties he encountered in organizing the premiere of his *Trovas*—a cycle of melodies inspired by Portuguese folklore—as part of the concerts at the École normale de musique de Paris. He explains that the singer Madeleine Grey, who was particularly enthusiastic about this work, requested additional preparation time: “Alas! I was unable to carry out my plan to perform your remarkable *Trovas* at my last concert at the École Normale. ” Cortot then announced the postponement of this premiere to June 22, 1932, and outlined a program of remarkable musical richness, including, notably, the Paris premiere of Johannes Brahms’s Serenade, Op. 16, two previously unpublished pieces by Sergei Prokofiev, and a divertissement by Jacques Ibert, also being performed for the first time. He expressed particular confidence in the reception Lacerda’s work would receive: “I therefore choose to believe that the critics will make an effort on this occasion, and I have no doubt as to the reception your suite of melodies will receive from them.” The letter also provides valuable insight into the conditions surrounding the performance and adaptation of vocal works in the early 20th century. Cortot points out that the third and sixth melodies of the *Trovas* do not exactly match Madeleine Grey’s vocal range and that she wishes to transpose them up a tone. He seeks the composer’s approval for this modification, while emphasizing the performer’s exceptional qualities: “I am certain that you will find in her a first-rate performer and that she will know how to bring out the intense poetry of your compositions. ” This correspondence illustrates the essential role played by Alfred Cortot in promoting contemporary music and his personal commitment to foreign composers, particularly Portuguese ones. It also serves as a first-rate account of the musical activities at the École normale de musique de Paris and of the artistic collaboration between Cortot and Madeleine Grey, a performer particularly appreciated for her musical intelligence and her sense of French melody. A beautiful letter with a particularly rich musical content, bringing together several leading figures of European musical life between the two world wars. The document is preserved with its original folds, a few slight creases, and signs of handling. The autograph signature is clearly legible. In good overall condition.

Schätzpreis:€120

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