Austrian-born composer (1874-1951) whose development of the 'twelve-tone' system proved to be one of the most far-reaching innovations in the history of 20th-century music. Rare TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, April 13, 1939. Letter to music historian Gerald Abraham, in full: “I do not have the 1928 article of Grove's dictionary, and consequently am unable to correct it. I am sure you will find sufficient data in two booklets (for my fiftieth and sixtieth birthdays) published by Universal and in the book ‘Schoenberg,’ 1937 Schirmer, which you should be able to secure in London. I am at present teaching at the University of California at Los Angeles and also engaged in writing a book on the ‘Fundamentals of musical composition’ which I hope to publish this year. I regret that I am unable to do more than refer you to the above material for, as you see, I am at the moment extremely busy. I believe, however, that they will suffice for your needs.” Schoenberg adds a handwritten postscript in German below his signature, and a pencil notation in English to the left: “Universal Edition, Wien I, Karlsplatz 6, edited by Merle Armitage.” In fine condition, with some very faint stains. Schoenberg remains rare across all formats, with this being our first letter from him in nearly a decade.
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