Unique presentation of twelve ink AMQS on a single off-white 7.75 x 9.25 sheet bearing a pencil drawing of Gustav Mahler (signed by the artist “A. Haferland”), circa early 1930s. Each composer pens from three to six measures; most also add the title, and, in some cases, additional information or sentiments. Represented: Ernst Toch (from Piano Sonata, Op. 47); Paul Hindemith (String Quartet, Op. 32); Heinz Thiessen (unidentified); Max Butting (unidentified); Alexander Jemnitz (Serenade, Op. 24); Kurt Weill (“Alabama Song” from The Threepenny Opera); Alban Berg (Wozzeck; Berg also adds in German: “So that the desire, after some bars of an aria from Wozzeck is taken even more into consideration, since I am not alone in this”); Arnold Schönberg (Jacob’s Ladder, including the sung text); Edmund Meisel (the film score Symphonie einer Großstadt); Ernst Krenek (Jonny spielt auf); Philipp Jarnach (unidentified); and Fidelio Finke (unidentified). A touch of subtle wear to edges, and faint toning to portrait area, otherwise fine condition. The confluence of factors that contribute to the importance and rarity of this item is truly remarkable. In addition to the sheer number of composers who have signed together, fully half of the signers (Schönberg, Berg, Hindemith, Weill, Krenek, and Toch) can indisputably be regarded as figures of primary importance in the history of 20th-century music. More incredibly still, these select six have quoted from some of their best-known and most recognizable works. While any of the quotes taken individually would be of exceeding interest, this remarkable group effort constitutes a singular treasure for the most advanced and discriminating collector. JSA/John Reznikoff Auction LOA and RRAuction COA.
