ALS in French, signed “I. Stravinsky,” one page both sides, 8 x 10.5, April 12, 1938. Letter written from the RMS Aquitania to Mr. Dushkin (Samuel Dushkin, world renowned violinist and close friend, with whom he cooperated in composing many pieces, including Violin Concerto). In full (translated): “Thank you for your cordial note and for Denise so kind lines. I am very happy to know that things are fine at your house and that the first care that your little Edith receive, she receives it from parents happy and in good health. Unfortunately it is not quite the same thing at home: the couple Mika Youra happiness is compromised by Mika’s terrible sickness. Her condition is giving us the most acute worries. She is at home (the mountain did not agree with her) being cared for by two doctors who consider her condition if not hopeless nevertheless truly serious. We have already spent weeks in constant anguish. I just sent to Nadia (63 Garden Street, Cambridge, Mass.) the III rd movement of my new concerto (two rolls one week apart) in response to her cable which was announcing the concert at Mrs. Bliss for May 1st (sic). You are saying on the other hand that it will take place on May 8th. It is a good thing, because I was dreading the little amount of time to make the copy which would be imprudent to undertake here in Europe (at [someone’s name illegible]) with above all uncertainty to have it on time for the rehearsals. x) [refers to side margin] x) [side margin] Nadia should have copy made immediately of the parts according to the proofs in her possession, it is in fact [symbols above] 3rd movement what she intended to do according to her cable (where she was asking me the manuscript [continued on top margin] that I could not send her because it was being printed at Schott). Arriving today from N.Y. ‘Europa’ with the 1st part of the 3rd movement and on April 19 ‘Aquitania’ with the final. [resuming the letter] I would be also very happy to see you again (in a month?) soon you and Denise and it is in this hope that I kiss you both affectionately.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical folds and light show-through from text on opposite side. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in Stravinsky’s hand. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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