MASSENET, JULES. (1842-1912). French composer; the most prolific and important French opera composer of his time. Ten ANS’s (“Massenet”). 11pp. Nine 8vo and one 12mo. Paris, 1911-1912. To French writer RAYMOND VRONCOURT DE LA VILLE (1883-1956).
Massenet’s influence on turn-of-the-century French music was profound. Not only did his many operas bridge the transition from a traditional to a more modern style, but his teaching at the Paris Conservatory beginning in 1878 shaped the work of nearly every major French composer of his era. His numerous compositions for voice, piano, orchestra, and chorus – now largely forgotten – have been eclipsed by the success of such operas as Werther, Thais, Sapho, and his 1884 Manon.
Ten Letters, primarily social in content, with their envelopes addressed in Massenet’s hand. A fine opportunity to acquire a quantity of letters by France’s greatest opera composer of the latter part of the 19th century. Nine are one side only and suitable for easy framing. All are in very fine condition.
