Lengthy autograph musical quotation signed ("G. Rossini") from a work for piano
9 measures in Eb major in 3/4 time, marked "Modto" at head and with "Offert a Mr. Brinley Richards, Paris, le 14 Avril 1863" at conclusion. Notated in dark brown ink within decorative olive green borders on Lard-Esnault paper.
Slightly browned; laid down to backing board with remnants of adhesive to verso.
"No composer in the first half of the 19th century enjoyed the measure of prestige, wealth, popular acclaim or artistic influence that belonged to Rossini. His contemporaries recognized him as the greatest Italian composer of his time. His achievements cast into oblivion the operatic world of Cimarosa and Paisiello, creating new standards against which other composers were to be judged. That both Bellini and Donizetti carved out personal styles is undeniable; but they worked under Rossini's shadow, and their artistic personalities emerged in confrontation with his operas. Not until the advent of Verdi was Rossini replaced at the centre of Italian operatic life." Philip Gossett in Grove Music Online
A prolific composer, Rossini's oeuvre included over 150 piano pieces.
The recipient of the present quotation is in all likelihood the noted Welsh pianist and composer Henry Brinley Richards (1817-1885). "Gaining the patronage of the Duke of Newcastle [Richards] entered the RAM, where he was twice awarded the King’s Scholarship (1835 and 1837). He went briefly to Paris for further study, becoming acquainted with Chopin, and on his return was appointed a teacher of the piano at the RAM, and later a director. ... He was said to be the finest pianist in Britain in the mid-19th century and also enjoyed a good reputation as a teacher." Owain Edwards, revised by A.F. Leighton Thomas in Grove Music Online
An attractive example.
Item #39445
Price: $6,500.00 other currencies