Important German composer (1813–1883) who, by expanding harmonic, instrumental, and dramatic forces to a previously undreamed-of degree, single-handedly revolutionized opera and attained status as one of the most influential geniuses in the history of music. Scarce AMQS on a 6.25 x 4 slip of manuscript paper, approximately eight measures of the “Pilgrim’s Chorus” from Tannhäuser, signed “Richard Wagner,” the composer adding the full original title, “Gesang der Pilger Aus: Tannhäuser, und der Sängerkrieg auf Wartburg.” A small ink date, January 3, 1846, has been added in another hand. Accompanied by a handwritten letter of provenance from the original recipient, violinist, critic, and impresario John Ella (1802–1888), who notes that Wagner presented the item to him in Dresden “as a memento of my visit & a token of friendship” and that it was exhibited in the Loan Collection at South Kensington in 1885. All of the items, along with an original unsigned CDV, are framed and matted together to an overall size of 11 x 15.5. In very good condition, with slip trimmed at edges (very slightly touching Wagner’s writing) and affixed to a slightly larger card and scattered light overall foxing. A unusually early and well-documented example! JSA/John Reznikoff Auction LOA and RRAuction COA
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