BRUNEAU (Alfred) (1857–1934). French composer and conductor. - Lot 28

BRUNEAU (Alfred) (1857–1934). French composer and conductor. A friend and collaborator of Émile Zola, he was one of the leading figures of musical naturalism. His notable compositions include *Le Rêve*, *L'Attaque du moulin*, *Messidor*, and *L'Ouragan*. Autograph letter signed “Alfred Bruneau” to his friend Louis Gallet, a French librettist. No place, no date (Tuesday). 2 pages in-8, mounted on black cardboard backing. An interesting letter concerning the French adaptation of a German lied and the preparation of a musical manuscript. Bruneau sends his correspondent a German lied and specifies the conditions under which its French translation must be carried out: “Here, dear friend, is the German lied. It goes without saying that you must compose your verse text based not on the spirit of the original but on that of the translation. I think one stanza will suffice. However, if you wish to make two… ” He then announces that he will soon be sending a musical score: “I will send you the score for Act 2 tomorrow or the day after tomorrow. I will have made a copy of it. ” Finally, he provides practical details about his upcoming stay in Normandy, asking his correspondent to write to him starting the following Sunday at Villa Lucie in Bénerville, near Deauville (Calvados). A fine example of working correspondence that attests to the exchanges between the composer and his librettist, as well as the care taken in adapting the poetic texts to the music. A few creases and slight signs of wear. In good overall condition.

Estimate:£83.71

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