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. Manuscript DS, in German, signed “Mahler,” one page both sides, 8.25 x 13.25, September 5, 1899. Crisply penned untranslated contract between the publishing house and the Vienna Court Opera concerning the print of the score and orchestra material for the first production of the ballet Vergissmeinnicht in Vienna, signed at the conclusion in black ink by Mahler. Central horizontal and vertical fold, a couple of pencil notations to top of first page, office stamp to bottom of second page, a bit of light soiling, and a diagonal crease to bottom of page, otherwise fine condition.
Since his days as a student at the University of Vienna, Mahler’s professional goal had been The Court Opera, where he was finally appointed director in 1897. His grandiose vision for the Opera was one that was virtually unobtainable. He saw each production as a blend of music, acting, and staging in the Wagnerian sense, rivaling the finest festival performances at Bayreuth. Vergissmeinnicht was a one act ballet by Richard Goldberger, and premiered at the Court Opera in October of 1899. It was performed 48 times, until the end of Mahler's management at the Court Opera in 1907. An excellent example from Mahler’s most frenzied period while at the Court Opera. RRAuction COA.
