JOACHIM JOSEPH: (1831-1907) Hungarian violinist, conductor and composer. A.L.S., Joseph Joachim, two

JOACHIM JOSEPH: (1831-1907) Hungarian violinist, conductor and composer. A.L.S., Joseph Joachim, two

JOACHIM JOSEPH: (1831-1907) Hungarian violinist, conductor and composer. A.L.S., Joseph Joachim, two pages, 8vo, n.p., n.d. (annotated 1872 in another hand), to Mrs. Benzon, in German. Joachim politely declines an invitation, writing 'On Sunday, to celebrate the 200^th (!) Monday Popular Concert, there is a dinner I can't miss. I had suggested another day but unfortunately Sunday is the only day that suits everyone involved and so I respond to your kind message as to whether I will come to your dinner with 'no', much as I would appreciate the opportunity to correct my lack of dependability and punctuality!', however further adding that he still hopes to be able to come 'since Chappell's dinner is at 6 o'clock; I can make my evening visit to you afterwards' and concluding by mentioning that he has been back to Edinburgh and is now going to Brighton. A couple of very minor, small traces of former mounting, VG

 

The Monday Popular Concerts, which were begun in 1858 and held at St. James's Hall, London, were among the most influential 19^th century musical events and attracted the finest British and international musicians, among these Joachim, who was an annual visitor to England from 1862 onwards. His appearance at the Monday 'Pops' and other concerts in London and the main provincial towns was a regular feature of British musical life.

 

Provenance: From the Pencarrow Collection previously sold at Sotheby's, 8^th December 1999 (lot 193) where acquired by Dr. Chonon Elkan Lewis (1931-2020) English physician, violinist and composer, appointed Honorary Physician to the musicians of the Philharmonic Orchestra.