LISZT, FRANZ. (1811-1886). Hungarian-born composer and pianist. LS. (“F. Liszt”). 2pp. 8vo. Weimar, June 10, 1886. To an unknown composer. In German with translation.

“Because I have not been able to read or write myself for a few days, I have asked one of my young piano virtuosos to play for me your composition ‘Festlicher Aufzug’ [Festive Procession].

It sounded very pompous with its predominant tonic and dominant chords. The leading beats to the trio and to the piano part are successfully composed.

Unfortunately, I must cut short my yearly summer vacation. I must visit a spa for health reasons for a while and after that I plan to attend the Bayreuth Festspiele. I am sorry that I cannot see you sooner as planned, but I will see you in Weimar when I return mid-September…”

Liszt gained notoriety as a virtuoso while touring Europe throughout the 1840s. During his extraordinary career he composed more than 700 works including his beloved Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2, Liebestraum No. 3, Douze Grandes Etudes, and Grandes études de Paganini, to name but a few. He was a friend and champion of such luminaries as Hector Berlioz, Hans von Bülow and Richard Wagner; both Bülow and Wagner became sons-in-law following their marriages to his daughter Cosima. In his final years, Liszt divided his time between Rome, Weimar and Budapest but continued to travel frequently, including to Bayreuth. Our letter refers to his final – and fatal – journey to Bayreuth to support Wagner’s Bayreuth Festival, begun in 1876, but still struggling to find success. During his visit, Liszt’s health rapidly deteriorated and he died on July 31 and was buried in Bayreuth.

Written on the first two pages of a folded sheet. Normal wear and in fine condition. Rare from this late period.