Item 12 is a response to an autograph seeker from one of the Woodstock musicians. No, not that Woodstock. This is from the village that gave the festival its name. None of those musicians would have explained their delay in responding by saying they were “working very hard, conducting the orchestra at Chautauqua, N.Y.” The writer of this note was Georges Barrere, a notable flautist of the first half of the 20th century. Barrere grew up and was trained in France. However, early in the century, he was invited to play for the New York Symphony Orchestra. He came; he stayed. Barrere was the founder of the New York Flute Club. His letter is dated September 10, 1936. $125.
Now for a little name dropping – item 25 is a letter from Italian opera composer Vincenzo Bellini circa 1830. Bellini had been a child prodigy and was now a respected opera composer who, like Mozart, would die at way too early an age. Bellini had received a letter from “Rubini,” most likely Italian tenor Giovanni Rubini. The letter informed him that Rosina Turina, sister of Bellini's mistress Giuditta Turina, was very ill, and might well be dead by the time the letter was received. Bellini writes his friend Giuseppe Pasta not to mention it to his mistress, since her mother is coming with the news and he does not want to upset her. Giuseppe Pasta was the husband of the renown singer Giuditta Pasta, generally considered one of the greatest opera singers ever. $5,800.
Item 45 is a photograph of another great singer, Enrico Caruso. It is inscribed, signed, and dated, November 7, (1904?). The legend looks most dapper, with his cane, hat, and striped suit. It comes with a 78 rpm recording of Caruso singing O sole mio. $1,100.
J & J Lubrano Music Antiquarians may be reached at 631-549-0672 or info@lubranomusic.com. Their website is www.lubranomusic.com.
