HENSCHEL, Sir George (1850-1934). Musician.
Series of 12 Autograph Letters Signed to Mr Webb, 36 pages 8vo or small 4to (rather worn, with filing-holes), The Red House, Hornton Street, 28 March 1930 - 15 January 1931. A compact correspondence chronicling a rather sad musical adventure.
Accepting the presidency of a Handel Society; suggesting that his Stabat Mater would be a better choice than his Requiem for a forthcoming performance, to be broadcast by the BBC; giving a history of the work and quoting a letter he had received from Parry ('my dear H, your work will live ...'); discussing possible soloists; asking for a copy of Bruch's Odysseus, to be performed in the same concert; discussing details of the fees to be paid; and asking for a change in the score (giving a musical quotation). At this point the whole scheme grinds to a halt:
£350 [No: 23739]
Series of 12 Autograph Letters Signed to Mr Webb, 36 pages 8vo or small 4to (rather worn, with filing-holes), The Red House, Hornton Street, 28 March 1930 - 15 January 1931. A compact correspondence chronicling a rather sad musical adventure.
Accepting the presidency of a Handel Society; suggesting that his Stabat Mater would be a better choice than his Requiem for a forthcoming performance, to be broadcast by the BBC; giving a history of the work and quoting a letter he had received from Parry ('my dear H, your work will live ...'); discussing possible soloists; asking for a copy of Bruch's Odysseus, to be performed in the same concert; discussing details of the fees to be paid; and asking for a change in the score (giving a musical quotation). At this point the whole scheme grinds to a halt:
'... It was a kind and benevolent Providence that made me give up a previous engagement for last night and go to the Handel Soc's concert instead.The correspondence concludes with financial arrangements consequent upon the cancellation of the performance, and with Henschel's resignation as president of the society.
'With sincerest and deepest regret I am forced to tell you that in the present state of wood-wind and brass - indeed of the orchestra altogether, when I think of that violin solo in G flat alone, it will be utterly impossible for me to conduct my Stabat Mater or even to wish for a performance of it at all.
'... To quote only one instance: the aspirations, last night, of oboe & trumpet were no doubt well meant and therefore praiseworthy, but the achievements lamentable, pitiable to a degree. ...'
£350 [No: 23739]
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