STRAUSS RICHARD: (1864-1949) German composer and conductor. A good A.L.S., Richard Strauss, two pages, 8vo, Weimar, 22^nd November 1891, to Hans Bronsart von Schellendorff, in German. Strauss writes to offer his views on some upcoming performances, 'Walter just informed me of Frau Pichon's cancellation. If I may be permitted to offer a respectful suggestion, I think it would be best if a guest could be found from Leipzig for the countess in the 'Poacher', so as to keep the 'Poacher' with Frl. Schoder on Tuesday at all costs, as I really think it would be very good if the 'Poacher' is staged with Frl. Schoder, in many respects! On the other hand, I myself wouldn't like to risk doing the 'Magic Flute' with Frl. Schoder with one rehearsal a day for any price; on Monday I have a concert, the 3 ladies haven't rehearsed here; also, I think it isn't in Frl. Schoder's own interest to bring her out now as Pamina, in which role Frau Stavenhagen and Frl. De Klina far outshine her. But I think I can promise a great success for Frl. Schoder's Baroness in the 'Poacher', as she has an exceptional talent for the light genre and for the time being even more gifts as a soubrette, whereas the lyrical is still her weak side. Thus, if, as I say the 'Poacher' can be kept for Tuesday, I think this would be most valuable and can prophesy a good performance. I would advise against the 'Magic Flute' under these circumstances at all costs. Perhaps Lucia [di Lammermoor] instead! Pardon this hasty scribbling, but Walter is waiting for it.' Accompanied by the front panel of the original envelope hand addressed by Strauss. A letter of fine musical content. A few small areas of paper loss to the lower edge, close to, but not affecting the signature. About VG

 

Hans Bronsart von Schellendorff (1830-1913) German composer and musician who studied under Franz Liszt and served as general manager of the Royal Theatre in Hanover 1867-87, also holding a similar post in Weimar from 1887-95.

 

Marie Gutheil-Schoder (1874-1935) German soprano who debuted in the secondary role of the First Lady at the Weimar Court Opera in Mozart's opera The Magic Flute in her native city in 1891.

 

Der Wildschutz (The Poacher) is a German comic opera in three acts by Albert Lortzing from a libretto by the composer. Based on a play by August von Kotzebue, it premiered in Leipzig in December 1842.