Famed German composer (1833–1897) whose works in the Classical spirit, written in the midst of the Romantic era, take a place among the most enduring music of the 19th century. Among his best-known works are four symphonies, numerous concerti, all manner of chamber and keyboard works, and the large-scale choral masterpiece German Requiem. ALS in German, signed “JB,” on a 5.5 x 3.5 postal card, no date, but postmarked February 17, 1884, and addressed on the reverse in Brahms’ hand. Letter to to his publisher, Fritz Simrock. The immensely talented marvel of the Romantic era writes in full (translated): “In the interest of the heavily taxed audience, I hope that you listen to my very recent lecture! I forgot to say, however, that there is such a second piano part at Herzogenberg that you can, of course, use immediately. I will go to Crefeld tomorrow and hope to be able to write to you as well as several others. 21-23 Elberfeld, then Amsterdam.” In fine condition, with two small pencil notations.
Brahms is not trying to lull anyone in this piece of correspondence—the composer is short of money and wants some cash. To that end, he suggests contacting “Herzogenberg” to acquire a piano arrangement for which he could be paid. “Herzogenberg” is a reference to either Brahms’ close friend Elisabeth von Herzogenberg, or her husband, composer Heinrich von Herzogenberg, both of whom regularly corresponded with the composer. At the time, Brahms was performing Symphony No. 3 in F major, a well-received work that Brahms fine-tuned for nearly a year, finally publishing it three months after sending this letter. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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