Famed German composer and performer who successfully combined romantic music with classical spirit, and is best remembered for his four outstanding symphonies, his Violin Concerto, Piano Concerto and the German Requiem. ALS in German, signed “Joh. Brahms,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.75 x 9, no date. Letter to an unidentified gentleman. In full, “Accept my sincere thanks for your kind letter and the exceedingly kind offer from your association. I truly would love to spend this autumn once again in complete relaxation making music with you. However there is a money-poke of mine that keeps saying, giving concerts is experimenting which it cannot abide. For that reason permit me to enquire if I could perhaps play in one of your subscription concerts and subsequently even risk a concert of my own? If that seems at all convenient then I beg you please to advise me without delay: when the first of these concerts will take place, if I could not perhaps play in the very first one, whether my own piano concerto would be acceptable to you, how the honorarium would be apportioned and whatever else may be necessary. Unfortunately I’ve tarried so long before writing these lines and expressing my appreciation of the kind tribute accorded me by the Gesang-Verein [Choral Society] that I now must be so bold as to urge you for an even prompter than usual reply. A positive one would truly delight. May I request that you extend my regards to my many kind acquaintances in Basel.” In fine condition, with small tape remnants to edges and corners, text showing through on opposing sides, and a few folds and wrinkles. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
