Influential French composer (1803–1869) of such repertory staples as the programmatic ‘Symphonie Fantastique,’ the opera ‘Les Troyens,’ and the colorful ‘travelogue in tones’ Harold in Italy. ALS in French, signed “Hector Berlioz,” one page both sides, 5.25 x 8, [November 9] 1840. Letter to Adolphe Catelin, his publisher. In full (translated): “You know that in order to put myself properly with some other editor, it is necessary that I have your affidavit freedom (release) from you. Please therefore write me that I have warned you in time in order to return to my right of publishing my works other than with you. That doesn't mean that I renounce the pleasure to deal with you with if will find a work that may be agreeable to you. How goes the sale of King Lear and of Napoleon? It would be necessary (therefore) to announce all that we have edited with you, even the Romances and other works. The public can not guess all this.” Reverse of second integral page also bears an address panel in Berlioz’s hand. In very good condition with intersecting folds, staining from wax remnants on an integral page, and writing showing through from opposing sides.
Berlioz and his publisher Catelin had worked together since 1836, promoting, among other pieces, the piano reduction of the cantata Le Cinq Mai, written in 1835, and the full score of Le Roi Lear—an overture to King Lear composed in 1831 and performed often in his concert tours. Although “the sale of King Lear and of Napoleon” (another work honoring one of his heroes) seemed to be going well, Berlioz was less than impressed with the marketing job done by Catelin regarding any of his newer works, prompting him to seek a release. Any correspondence between Berlioz and Catelin is very desirable. RRAuction COA.
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