Arthur Whiting schreibt Josef Rheinberger wie es ihm in den USA ergeht.


Jan. 1887

My dear Sir

When I saw you for the last time in Munich, you asked me to write you of my fortune, good or bad in America. I have been waiting for something of importance to happen, before complying with your request, but as my life has been rather uneventful since I left Germany, I will write to you such things as have happened.

A year ago I gave a concert of my own compositions most of which were written under your instruction; the criticisms from the press and public were very flattering and I received plenty of encouragement to continue my composition. I played the trio on two other occasions in and about Boston as well as the piano pieces.

In February of last year my overture was performed under my direction at one of the Symphony Concerts; as we have a very fine orchestra, it was very beautifully played.

Since my return I have not written as much as I wish I had; I have not felt in the mood for composition all the time. I have, however, turned out three piano pieces which I send to you today, hoping that you will find them an advance on my first work. I have also completed a piano concerto in three movements which I hope to play myself here next winter; I hope sometime to show you the score and trust you will pronounce it creditable to yourself as my teacher. I have found your precepts very practical and valuable and consider it a very fortunate day when I decided to go to Munick to study. I hope sincerely to be in Munich, for a visit at least, within a few years. Will you kindly remember me to be Frau Professor Rheinberger as well as Prof. Abel and Prof. Bussmeyer, also a „Schöne Gruss" to Prof. Giehrl and Thuille.

Hoping that I may soon hear from you I am,

Yours very sincerely

Arthur Whiting

123 St. Botoph St.

Boston Mass. U.S.A.

Jan. 1887

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