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Lot #635
Vincent Novello Autograph Letter Signed on His Proposed 'Life of Mozart'

Novello heads to "Germany for the purpose of obtaining authentic materials for my intended 'Life of Mozart'"

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Description

Novello heads to "Germany for the purpose of obtaining authentic materials for my intended 'Life of Mozart'"

English musician (1781-1861) who was a composer of popular sacred music. ALS signed “V. Novello,” one page, 6.25 x 7.75, June 10, 1829. Handwritten letter to composer Thomas Attwood, who had been a student of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In part: "I have at last determined to on visiting Germany for the purpose of obtaining authentic materials for my intended 'Life of Mozart'—and shall leave England at the end of this month. I was quite shocked to hear…that the sister of Mozart is now almost blind—nearly 80 years old—and 'in distress.' In consequence of this intelligence, it is my intention to make a little private Collection in her favor, amongst those of my musical friends who respect the memory of her illustrious Brother—& to place whatever sum may be collected—in her own hands. I have already put down £10 myself…Should you feel inclined to add to the proposed little Collection, I shall be very happy to convey it to Saltzburg in the way above-mentioned…May I request the favor of a line of introduction from you to the Sister, as well as to the widow of Mozart—to whom, I, of course, intend to pay my respects." He goes on to request introductory letters to "any of the Musical Cognoscenti at Vienna, or, Prague, who may have it in their power to assist my researches—or promoted the fulfillment of my wishes relative to the biography of Mozart." In very good to fine condition, with a trimmed top edge, a light stain, and the second page affixed to a slightly larger piece of card stock. Novello's journals documenting his trip to Salzburg to meet Mozart's sister, Nannerl, and Mozart's widow, Constanze, were published in 1955 under the title 'A Mozart Pilgrimage: Being the Travel Diaries of Vincent & Mary Novello in the Year 1829.'

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
  • Dates: #689 - Ended April 17, 2024





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