George Gershwin
American composer and pianist, 1898-1937
Gershwin's compositions spanned both popular and classical genres, and his most popular melodies are widely known. Among his best-known works are the orchestral compositions Rhapsody in Blue (1924) and An American in Paris (1928) as well as the opera Porgy and Bess (1935). Initially a commercial failure, Porgy and Bess is now considered one of the most important American operas of the twentieth century. Gershwin's compositions have been adapted for use in many films and for television, and several became jazz standards recorded in many variations. Many celebrated singers and musicians have covered his songs.
Source: Wikipedia
Komponist, Pianist und Dirigent (1898-1937). Typed letter signed (carbon copy). New York. 1 S. 4to.
$ 6,734 / 6.000 €
(40987/BN21467)
To Leslie Rogers of the Boston Symphony Orchestra: "I will try to locate the extra symphonic parts you ask for in connection with the 'Rhapsody in Blue' and I will send them out to you. As they are the only ones I have please send them back to me after you have finished using them. I believe Harms is arranging with Mr. Fiedler for a suitable fee for 'An American in Paris' [...]". - On stationery with printed letterhead. Some wear and traces of mounting on reverse, but still well-preserved.
Komponist, Pianist und Dirigent (1898-1937). 2 typed letters signed. Wohl New York. Zusammen (¾+1 =) 1¾ SS. auf 2 Bll. 4to.
$ 3,143 / 2.800 €
(45222/BN31521)
To Grace Morse of James B. Pinkerton & Son, concerning an invitation (7 June), and sending biographical material: "Mr. Isaac Goldberg is keeping me posted about what he is writing and I am sending as much material as I can think of for his articles. If you think it is necessary for me to meet Mr. Costain when Mr. Goldberg comes to New York I shall be glad to be at the meeting [...]" (2 Oct.). - On Gershwin's personalized stationery engraved at head "George Gershwin 33 Riverside Drive, New York City"; marginal splits to center horizontal folds; small damage to edges and slightly browned due to paper.