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Price: $2400.00 |
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MINT CONDITION |
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Letter signed by the early Romantic composer in the hand of Sir George Smart, to British artist F. Kenneth, London, 11 March, 1826. Weber arrived in London on March 6th, 1826. Riddled with tuberculosis, his health was extremely precarious. Two years previously, Weber had been given a contract with Covent Garden to write an opera based upon C. M. Wieland’s epic poem “Oberon”. He accepted the contract despite having the handicap of not speaking, or reading English. He was given rooms at the home of Sir George Smart, the conductor and a close friend. Our letter dictated to Smart and signed by Weber is to a painter turning down his services. Sir, I should have had much pleasure in complying with your request, but that I have promised to sit to another artist if my time will admit of it but which I much fear. I have the honor to be Sir, Your Obdt. Ser x C. M. von Weber 71 Postland Street March 11th F. F. Kenneth Esq. The composer was at the start of rehearsals of his new opera, which a month to the day of this letter, “Oberon” premiered to an enthusiastic reception. Weber conducted 12 performances in total of the opera, not to mention various other concerts around the City. In his weakened state, he managed to hold on until June 5th, when he was found dead in his rooms at Smart’s home. A rare English language letter by Weber. |
CARL MARIA VON WEBER - COMPOSER |
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Phone: 212-860-5541 * Fax: 917-677-8247
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