Description

 

Krenek, Ernst (1900 – 1991)

A typed letter signed by Ernst Krenek, 3rd April 1939, on Alamo Hotel headed paper, in Colorado Springs.

The composer writes to a Mr. Abraham in German. He apologises that he hasn’t the time to fully answer his correspondent’s questions, but recommends an article about him by Dodd, Mead & Co in New York. ‘It was written by Dr. Heinsheimer and corrected by me, so it is absolutely authentic and also materially sufficient. There is also an almost complete, at least sufficient, list of my works. I think that this work will be accessible to you.’ Krenek then goes on to list works of his that are not included in the aforementioned article, including his 12 Piano Pieces and Suite for Violoncello solo. He also adds, in English, a biographical note, ‘Appointed as professor of music at Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 1939’.

In fine condition. A year prior to writing this letter, Krenek had emigrated to America, having been (incorrectly) named as Jewish by the Third Reich, and thus characterised as a “degenerate” composer.