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Austrian composer (1860–1911) whose epic symphonies redefined the genre and assured him a place among the most important and influential composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. ALS in German, signed “Gustav Mahler,” one page both sides, 5.5 x 8.5, Der Director des K. K. Hof-Operntheaters letterhead, no date but circa 1904. Handwritten letter to a colleague, accepting an invitation to perform one of his symphonies. In part (translated): "Thank you, dear colleague! With great joy, I have received the news of your appointment, and I am delighted to offer you my heartfelt congratulations on this achievement. I am well aware of the dedication and perseverance that you have shown in the past, and I believe that you will fulfill your new responsibilities with the same diligence and success. My travels have taken me to various places recently, including a few days in Crefeld and Cologne. Your recent performance of 'Nachtlied' was particularly memorable.
The greatest joy for me is to see how the artistic world values and recognizes your talents. Your work is truly appreciated, and it has brought so much enrichment to the community. As far as my conditions are concerned, I have no objections to your proposals. Therefore, I would like to suggest a payment of 1000 marks as an advance for the next delivery (which should not be misunderstood)." In fine condition.
This letter was likely written in 1904, when Mahler was director of the Vienna Court Opera; the recipient was likely Fritz Steinbach, director of the music director of the Gürzenich Orchestra in Cologne from 1902 to 1914. Mahler would conduct the Gürzenich Orchestra in a performance of his Symphony No. 3 as part of a special subscription concert on March 27, 1904, and would premiere his Symphony No. 5 with the Gürzenich Orchestra on October 18, 1904. A superb and extremely desirable autograph letter by the Austrian master.
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