DS, signed “Walter E. Disney,” one page, 8.5 x 11, Walt Disney Studio Mickey Mouse letterhead, December 17, 1929. Disney notifies composer Carl Stalling that “in accordance with the employment contract…executed between yourself and me, that I…do hereby execute the option upon your exclusive services…for an additional period of one (1) year.” Boldly signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by Disney. Stalling is the most famous unknown composer of the 20th century, almost solely based on his work composing musical scores for animated cartoons. Stalling's first work in music was as house organist in Newman Theatre in Kansas City, where he would accompany the latest silent film with his organ playing. He soon came to the attention of fellow Kansan Walt Disney, who recruited Stalling as musical director for his fledgling animation company. At Disney, Stalling invented the "tick" method, a timing device that allows animators to set the tempo of the cartoons, so that the musicians can play along before the cartoon is even drawn! Stalling created the music for Disney's early "Silly Symphonies", including The Skeleton Dance. In fine condition, with a light shade of toning and horizontal and vertical mailing folds, one passing through a single letter of signature. COA Phil Sears and R&R COA.
