The Brodsky Papers comprise letters, newscuttings, programmes, telegrams, photograph albums, loose photographs, concert tickets, official documents (marriage certificate, diplomas) and music, which were found in the Brodsky home following the death of their last surviving heir. The whole of Brodsky's life as a performer, including his 34 years as Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music, is represented along with his home life with his wife Anna. The earliest item in the collection is a letter of recommendation from Meyerbeer after hearing the young Adolph play a fantasy by Allard in Berlin in 1862. The longest correspondence is between Nina Grieg, who with Edvard met the Brodskys in Leipzig in the 1880s [Edvard had been a student at the Leipzig Conservatoire from 1858 until 1862] and Anna Brodsky. This dates from 1890 and continues with Anna's sister Olga even after the deaths of the Brodskys in 1929. It is conducted in German except for the duration of the Great War when Nina wrote in English. This covers social, political, philosophical, religious and musical matters as well as health. Of special interest is the visit of the Brodskys, with two pupils and Anna's niece, to the Griegs' home at Troldhaugen in 1906. There are about thirty letters from Edvard to Adolph and about a hundred from Nina to Anna. Also of great interest are the letters from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky who was overjoyed that his concerto had been played at last even if Hanslick, the Viennese critic, damned it as stinking. Tchaikovsky visited the Brodskys in Leipzig and was charmed by Anna Brodsky and her sister Olga. He also met Brahms and Edvard and Nina Grieg at the Brodskys' and the Griegs frequently recall this memorable evening in their letters to Adolph and Anna Brodsky. In one of his letters to Brodsky, Brahms gives practical advice to the players of his Quintet in G major op.111: the two violins must bluff their forte to allow the violoncello to come through. In 1891 he sends the Brodskys a photograph of himself and wishes them eine gute Fahrt " before they sail for New York. He had done his utmost to dissuade the Brodskys from going to America. In a letter sent to New York, Brahms asks Brodsky to mark fingerings and bowings for a Schirmer reprint. There are many letters from conductors: Hans von Bülow, who conducted in Meiningen where Brodsky was a frequent soloist; Hans Richter, who conducted the Vienna Philharmonic in the memorable first performance of the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto and later conducted the Hallé from 1897 until his retirement in 1911 [the Richters lived round the corner from the Brodskys in Bowdon]; and Hamilton Harty, who conducted the Hallé from 1920 until 1933. There are also two letters from the Manchester critic Neville Cardus. In the collection there are letters from the lesser-known composers Busoni, Sinding and Halvorsen. Turgenev, the Russian author whom Brodsky met in Paris, wrote three letters. There are many letters from Edward Elgar - the Elgar Violin Concerto was a great favourite of Brodsky's which he played daily. There are also letters from Saint-Saëns, Dont, Ysayë, Carl Fuchs and Simon Speelman, cellist and violist respectively in the Manchester formation of the Brodsky Quartet. In addition to these letters from famous international stars of the day there are begging letters for the poor children of Vienna after the Great War and rather sad letters from Ottokar Novacek [second violin and later viola in the original Brodsky Quartet] begging for money so that he can have a year off in order to compose. At a more local level are a few letters from pupils asking to be excused from their lessons. The Papers create a vivid image of Brodsky as a musician who did broadcast on the wireless but of whom we have no known recordings, as a teacher, a chamber music player, a chess player, bon viveur, philanthropist, a kind husband and affectionate uncle, and one of the earliest motorists of Bowdon. AB 1080 and AB 1081 were originally catalogued as AB ???"
Description: There are 3 copies of this newscutting one of which has Manch. Guard. 24/1/29 written, possibly by Anna Brodsky, in black ink in the margin
Aus den Tagebuchern Tschaikowskijs : Tagebucher und Briefwechsel mit Tolstoi u.a. / zum ersten Mal veroffentlicht von Rene Fulop-Miller
Description: This is one of Hans von Bülow's subscription concerts given on Thursday 7 February. In the margin at the bottom of the review has been added in ink by hand Fremdenblatt
Newscutting of a review of the third Vienna Philharmonic Concert
Description: There are 2 copies of the second part of the cutting. The concert took place probably in the early 1880s before Brodsky was appointed to the post in Leipzig.
Description: This concert was probably given in 1884, the year of the foundation of the Brodsky Quartet. This is a review of a chamber concert which took place on 24 May.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given in Leipzig
Description: This article has been torn from a newspaper and the part concerning Adolph Brodsky has been marked by hand in red. The date of this review is probably some time in the 1880s.
Newscutting of a review of an interlude by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: On the top of the first page of this newspaper has been written by hand in German: Zuruck schicken, aber es ist keine Eile, wann es Ihnen bequem ist. [Send this back, but there's no rush, when convenient for you.]
Feuilleton: Musik : Novitaten im Gesellschaftskonzert.-Adolph Brodsky.- Ungedruckte Briefe von Bülow
Description: These two sheets cover the same article as AB/020a but the top half of each page has been cut off. The name Brodsky in the heading has been underlined in red. The second copy of this article suggests that two different people sent the article to Brodsky
Feuilleton: Musik : Novitaten im Gesellschaftskonzert.-Adolph Brodsky.- Ungedruckte Briefe von Bülow
Description: These two sheets cover the same article as AB/020a and AB/020b and the top half of each page has been cut off as in AB/ 020b. The article has been marked in black
Newscutting of a review of the second concert of the Imperial Russian Music Society
Description: Aged about 5, Adolph leans against a very elaborately carved chair. The printing on the back of the photograph is in gold and under the photograph is printed in Roman lettering: Cherson Winkert.
Newscutting of a review of a chamber concert given by the Brodsky Quartet in Leipzig : from a supplement to the Leipziger Tageblatt
Description: This photograph may have been taken when Anna was suffering from partial paralysis in the early 1920s. She is seated outside on a wicker-work wheelchair. She wears a dark-coloured hat and has a shawl tucked in over her clothes. In her right hand she holds a fountain pen poised above some paper at her side.
Newscutting of a review of the tenth Gewandhaus concert : from the Leipziger Tageblatt
Description: In the margin is a cross linked to a cross at Berlioz in the text. In the margin has been added in Russian in ink "plenitel'no" [captivating]
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet on 13 March 1884
Description: In the top margin has been written in red Wiener Journal and Dr. Adolf Brodsky has been underlined. This article covers Brodsky's biography and career
Description: At the top of the cutting has been added by hand in red: Erbitte freundlich Rucksendung [Please send back]. Parts of the article have been underlined in red
Newscutting of a review of the first Brodsky Quartet concert, in Leipzig on 7 February 1884
Description: The article is taken from the evening edition of Berliner Tageblatt. This is actually 2 cuttings: the masthead has been stuck on to the article. Parts of the article have been underlined in red
Newscutting of a report of Adolph Brodsky's withdrawal from the New York Symphony Orchestra
Description: The heading for this letter to the Editor of The Manchester Courier is The Brodsky Concerts. This letter from Adolf Brodsky wishes to correct a misapprehension on the part of the critic of last Wednesday's quartet concert: Brodsky would not abandon the concerts for personal reasons.
Newscutting from The Christian Monitor, Boston, U.S.A. : 28 June 1919
Description: This newscutting consists of an entire page of advertisements and an entire page given over to music matters entitled "Music of the World".
Description: This cryptic outline of Brodsky covers his birth, education, marriage to Anna Skadovsky in 1880 and subsequent career as teacher and international performer. His recreation is given as chess and his clubs, London City Chess, Schiller Anstalt and Manchester Chess. His address is 3 Laurel Mount, Bowdon, Cheshire.
Newscutting of a review of Brodsky's farewell concert by Samuel Langford : From The Manchester Guardian
Creator: Langford, Samuel (1863-1927), music critic
Dates: 14-Jan-21
Description: At the top of this newscutting is written and underlined in ink: Anna Brodsky's copy. This concert was given a couple of months before Brodsky's 70th birthday.
Newscutting of a review of the Hallé concert conducted by Edward Elgar from The Manchester Guardian
Description: The heading for this photograph of Elgar and Brodsky reads "Sir E. Elgar in Manchester". Below the photograph is mentioned that since Elgar's last visit to the city, Manchester has suffered the loss of Dr. Brodsky.
Creator: Eller, William (fl.1893-1920), Trustee of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 25-Oct-24
Description: The title and date of the newspaper have been added in ink by hand. This is the third article in a series entitled "Famous musicians I have met"
Description: The critic is very grateful that Herr Militarmusikdirector Max Pohle has brought the great violinist Adolph Brodsky to the Chemnitz Friends of Music.
Newscutting of a review of a Euterpe Concert given in Leipzig
Newscutting from The Manchester Guardian of a photograph of a performance of The Marriage of Figaro by students of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Description: The caption for this photograph reads: A group of characters in the performance of "The Marriage of Figaro," which is to be given to-day, to-morrow, and Saturday by students of the Royal Manchester College of Music." The students are in appropriate costume for the opera. Some members of the orchestra are visible at the foot of the stage.
Description: On the bottom right front of the mount is written in ink: March 23 1911, Dr Richter entering the Free Trade Hall for his last Hallé Reh.. On the back the same is written in pencil. Richter wears a hat and overcoat. He has a cigar in his mouth and a furled umbrella in his right hand. He looks as though he is about to enter the Free Trade Hall by the back door.
Vierte Kammermusik [Serie I] im neuen Gewandhaus : am 10 Januar 1891
Description: In this cutting die Herren Brodsky and Ottokar Novacek have been underlined in red. In this concert a quartet in E minor and in manuscript by Ottokar Novacek is played by the Brodsky Quartet.
Newscutting concerning Busoni's sonata for piano and violin
Description: This extract from an article mentions that after Novacek's Quartet another new work has been performed in the Liszt-Verein concerts: the Sonata for Piano and Violin in E minor by F.B. Busoni who is working in Moscow. The sonata was played by the composer and Adolph Brodsky.
Newscutting of a review of the third Subscription Concert conducted by Hans von Bülow
Description: The name Herr Adolf Brodsky has been underlined by hand in red. The third Subscription Concert of the Hamburg Town Theatre Orchestra under Hans von Bülow.
Review of the sechste und letzte Kammermusik der Serie I am 11. April 1891
Description: This cutting has been taken from a Leipzig newspaper the title of which has not been included in its entirety in the cutting. It may be Leipziger Nachrichten.
Sechste Kammermusik [der I. Serie vierte] im Neuen Gewandhaus : Sonntag, den 19. Januar 1890
Description: The review quoted extensively in this article is AB/066 in the collection. This article quotes from the Magdeburgische Zeitung, which writes very glowingly of the violinist Adolph Brodsky in the seventh Harmonie-Concert in Magdeburg.
Description: This review is taken from the Beilage [supplement] der Leipziger Nachrichten. This concert given by the Brodsky Quartet was held in the small hall of the New Gewandhaus in Leipzig on 17 Oct.
Description: This cutting is of the first 2 pages of the Meininger Tageblatt und Allgemeiner Anzeiger, a daily newspaper in its 37th year in 1885. On the second page of this newspaper cutting is a review of the third subscription concert of the Herzogliche Hofkapelle [Duke's Court Musicians] on 25 October.
Newscutting of a review of the seventh Harmonie-Concert
Description: This review is quoted in AB/063. This review of the Seventh Harmony Concert given on Wednesday 26 February [probably in the late 1880s] was written by W.J.
Newscutting of a review of the twentieth Gewandhaus Concert on 28 February
Description: This cutting has been torn from the newspaper and the bottom left corner is incomplete. This concert was given in the presence of His Majesty King Albert.
Newscutting of a review of the fifth New Philharmonic Concert conducted by Hans von Bülow from Hamburger Nachrichten
Description: In the bottom margin of this newscutting has been added by hand in black ink Hamburger-Correspondent. The article is prefaced by the initials J.S. which may represent the name of the critic. This same concert was reviewed in Hamburger Nachrichten, AB/068.
Newscutting concerning the fourth Leipzig Music Festival
Description: In this newscutting the name Brodsky has been underlined by hand in red. This "cutting" has actually been torn out and part of the left-hand column is missing. This fourth Leipzig Music Festival probably took place in 1883 or 1884 since Brodsky is referred to as the new Leipzig violin professor. The Festival organised by director Stagemann was staged in the New Stadttheater and the second part dedicated to the memory of Richard Wagner.
Newscutting of a review of the seventh concert in the New Gewandhaus on 15 January, from the Beilage der Leipziger Nachrichten
Description: This review has been torn untidily from the newspaper. The novelty in this concert was the Second Violin Concerto by Hans Sitt who is a friend of Brodsky and a member of his string quartet. Berhard Vogel believes that the Gewandhaus audiences deserve better than this.
Newscutting of the Tonkunstlerverein Gathering in Weimar 1886
Description: In this newscutting the words das Leipziger Quartett "Brodsky" have been underlined by hand in red. This review dated 4 June covers the dates 24 to 28 May when the Tonkunstlerverein was celebrating 25 years of its founding in Weimar.
Newscutting of the Tonkunstlerverein Gathering in Weimar
Description: In this newscutting the words Herren Brodsky und Schumacher have been underlined by hand in red. This review concludes the article started in AB/072a and reviews in detail the final concerts of the Tonkunstlerversammlung in Weimar.
Newscutting of a review a concert given by the students of the Leipzig Conservatoire in the New Gewandhaus
Description: In this newscutting the name Herr Adolf Brodsky has been underlined in red. The date of this concert was probably in the mid 1880s. The orchestra had improved so much in the past year which suggests it must be at least a year after Brodsky's arrival in Leipzig in 1883
Description: The heading of the article has been marked by hand in blue. This article is about Herr Dr. Julius Korngold the critic and Wolfgang Erich Korngold the composer, who is the son of the former.
Newscutting of a review of the third musikalische Akademie des Gr. Hoftheaterorchesters
Description: When Brodsky first came to play the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto in October 1882, he was a great technician but in the meantime he has become a significant artist in the full meaning of the word.
Description: In this newspaper cutting from The Manchester Guardian, is reproduced a picture from the Illustrated London News of 16 May 1857. This shows the opening of the Art Treasures Exhibition in Manchester on 5 May. The Prince Consort stands at the top of the steps and was greeted with the National Anthem played by the Hallé Orchestra and Choir in their first public appearance. Mr. F. Ireland is presenting this picture to the Orchestra. The Illustrated London News describes the Prince Consort's drive in Manchester: "...the succession of small and happy-looking villages and hamlets of Didsbury, Withington, Fallowfield, and Rusholme...There was nothing in the scenery to indicate the proximity of a huge manufacturing city."
Newscutting of the sixth chamber music concerts : fourth of the present series
Description: At the concert on 11 January the Brodsky Quartet [Brodsky, Becker, Novacek and Klengel] gave the audience a most pleasant surprise with Novacek's Quartet in E minor played from the manuscript.
Description: This article outlines Brodsky's biography and also mentions his violin, a fine Joseph Guarnerius del Gesu of 1735 and his bows, by Tourte, Hill and others. The article includes a list of Brodsky's most famous pupils. Much of the information in this article came from Mrs. Brodsky's book, "Recollections of a Russian Home", with kind permission from Dr. Brodsky.
Description: This death notice reads: BRODSKY.- On January 22, at a nursing home, Dr. ADOLPH BRODSKY, the dearly beloved husband of Anna Brodsky of 3, Laurel Mount, Bowdon. Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music. Service at Manchester Crematorium this day [Friday], at twelve noon. No flowers, by request. All inquiries to Messrs Kendal, Milne and Co.
Newscutting of a report of the cremation service for Dr. Adolph Brodsky
Description: Mrs. Brodsky was present in an "invalid chair" in the company of many musicians including past and present students of the College, members of the Hallé and representatives of the University
Newscutting of an article on the death of Dr. Adolph Brodsky
Description: The article mentions the fact that all proceeds from Brodsky Quartet concerts were handed over to the sustentation fund at the Royal Manchester College of Music, [2162 pounds in recent years], a fund to aid students who could not continue without financial assistance.
Newscutting of an article on Brodsky's work in Manchester, from the Manchester City News
Description: Within this article is a reproduction of the portrait in oils of Brodsky by William Cartledge, presented in recognition of his 30 years as Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music and a reproduction of a photograph of the Brodsky Quartet in 1899 [Brodsky, Rawdon Briggs, S. Speelman and Carl Fuchs.]
Newscutting of an anecdote about Adolph Brodsky, from The Manchester Guardian
Description: Above the article about the funeral of Adolph Brodsky is a photograph of Dr. W.H. Moberly, the Vice-Chancellor of Manchester University, in academic dress, with others who were present at the funeral.
Newscutting of an obituary of Adolph Brodsky from The Manchester Guardian
Description: This periodical has a double spread of photographs of the director and staff at the Leipzig Conservatoire. There is also an article on the Conservatoire 1843-1896 and a list of staff for that period which includes Adolf Brodsky 1883.
Creator: Pitfield, Thomas Baron (1903-1999), Composer, artist
Dates: 1962
Description: This article was originally broadcast on the Home Service and later published in The Listener pages 683 and 684, dated 19 April 1962. The Tchaikovsky letters were translated by Mrs. Alice Pitfield, wife of the author. Thomas Pitfield mentions how the letters now known at the R.M.C.M. as the Brodsky Collection, came to be discovered many years after the Brodskys' death at their home, 3 Laurel Mount, Bowdon, Cheshire. The house was bequeathed to Anna's sister Olga and after her death when aged over 100 years the house fell to her son, Leon Picard. He died intestate and the packets of correspondence were found and opened by the Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music.
Description: At the beginning of the new season of the R.M.C.M. Club [October 1909], Mrs Brodsky and Madame Grieg [who was staying with the Brodskys in Bowdon] held a reception for members and friends.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given at the R.M.C.M. Club in October
Description: Dated c.28 October 1907 by hand. The inauguration concert programme is AB/113. The inaugural meeting of the RMCM Club on 26 October 1907, was hosted by its president, Mrs. Anna Brodsky.
Newscutting of a report of a concert given at the RMCM Club
Description: This very brief note reports on the opening concert of the RMCM Club [[covered in more detail in AB/092 and AB/093], in which Madame Grieg, Edward Isaacs, Anton Maaskoff and the Brodsky Quartet performed.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Johannes Brahms
Creator: University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (1817-present)
Dates: 31 Jul 1867
Description: The report covers the term 1866-67, and shows that Brodsky was studying violin, composition and piano. His progress has been 'outstanding'. The certificate is signed by Hellmesberger, director of the Conservatoire.
Typescript letter of introduction and recommendation for Adolph Brodsky, signed from Daniel McCabe, Lord Mayor of Manchester
Description: Parts for first violin, second violin, viola and cello for string quartets, quintets, and violin sonatas, by various composers; the violin quintet by Dvorak contains a part for piano, and Tchaikovsky's violin sonata contains a piano part and most of the other orchestral parts. Some of the parts are missing for some of the pieces. Most of the parts have been annotated by the Brodsky Quartet, some have been autographed by members of the Quartet, and there are two pieces which have been autographed by Edward Elgar and Edvard Grieg.
Description: Some of these photographs depict Adolph Brodsky posing alone, while in others he is posing with groups of students, or with the other members of the Brodsky Quartet. Also included are photographs of friends and acquaintances of the Brodskys, some of whom are unidentified. Many of the photographs have been autographed.
Publicity material relating to the Brodsky Quartet
Description: Three programmes of concerts performed by the Brodsky Quartet. The first, dated 26 March 1896, was held at the RMCM, and the quartet consisted of Adolph Brodsky, C Rawdon Briggs, Simon Speelman, and Carl Fuchs. The programme consisted of the Quartet in C Major by WA Mozart, Quartet in D Minor by F Schubert, and Quartet in C Major, Opus 59, Number 3, by L v Beethoven. The second programme is from a concert performed on 27 October 1911 in the New Islington Hall, Manchester, by the same members of the quartet; the programme is incomplete, consisting of only the first two pages. The programme consisted of the Quartet in G Major by WA Mozart, Quartet in A Minor by F Schubert, and Quartet in B Flat, Opus 18, Number 6, by L v Beethoven. The third programme is from a concert performed on 30 March 1912 in St George's Hall, by the same members of the quartet. The whole programme consisted of works by Beethoven.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1912
Description: For the college year, October to July, 1912-1913, admits 2 persons to the Annual Public Examinations and to the Students' Open Practices or Musical Evenings held between the above dates.
Certificate of National Registration issued to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: c1915
Description: Brodsky has left the certificate unsigned although instructions on the back specify that it must be signed. The wording on this certificate reads: This is to certify that Adolph Brodsky Violinist 41, of 3 Laurel Mount, Bowdon has been registered under the National Registration Act, 1915. God save the King.
Certificate of National Registration issued to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: c1915
Description: Anna Brodsky has left the certificate unsigned although instructions on the back specify that it must be signed. The wording on this certificate reads: This is to certify that Anna Brodsky Occupation 41, of 3 Laurel Mount, Bowdon has been registered under the National Registration Act, 1915. God save the King.
Description: Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank cheque made out to Mr. A. Brodsky for the sum of three shillings and ninepence. Signed by the Honorary Treasurer on behalf of the Manchester Chess Club.
Certificate of Naturalization granted to Adolph Brodsky: Home Office No. 426,368. [A.] Certificate No. 9866
Creator: Towle, William (1848-1929), Knight, hotel manager
Dates: 30-Aug-04
Description: This is an agreement for the hire of the Concert Hall at the Midland Hotel in the City of Manchester for six evening concerts [19 October 1904, 30 November 1904, 18 January 1905, 15 February 1905, 15 March 1905, 5 April 1905], at a special rental of sixty guineas. The owner stipulates that the lowest price of admission to the concerts etc. shall be one shilling. The total capacity of the hall is 847: 619 in the stalls and 228 in the balcony
Blood analysis of Anna Brodsky by Dr. Porges of the Urban Hygiene and Balneological Institute in Marienbad
Creator: Victoria University of Manchester (1851-2004)
Dates: 1912
Description: This lists for the Faculties of Law, Music, Commerce and Theology, the names of the deans, and names and addresses of the members and external examiners.
Description: This small silver straight-sided coffee pot has leather entwined round the handle. This coffee pot is inscribed with the words in upper-case letters: Brodsky with Speelman's love.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1929
Description: This concert was in aid of the fund to establish a scholarship to the memory of the late Dr. Brodsky. There is a list of donations received up-to-date.. This concert took place in the Free Trade Hall on Friday 15 March 1929. The Orchestra was led by Arthur Catterall and was conducted by R.J. Forbes; it consisted of 100 past and present students of the Royal Manchester College of Music.
Description: This concert took place at the English Embassy in Rome. On the 2 inner pages of this small ticket is given the programme for the concert, which was held on 10 April.
Description: This concert took place at the English Embassy in Rome. On the 2 inner pages of this small ticket is given the programme for the concert, which was held on 13 April.
Concert schedule for the New York Symphony Orchestra, January and February
Creator: New York Symphony Orchestra (1878-present)
Dates: 1892
Description: Lists the dates, times and places of concerts of the Symphony Orchestra of New York for January and February 1892. Some dates have been underlined in ink. The concerts are held mainly in the Music Hall, New York.
Concert schedule of the New York Symphony Orchestra, March and April
Creator: New York Symphony Orchestra (1878-present)
Dates: 1892
Description: Lists the dates, times and places of concerts of the Symphony Orchestra of New York for March and April 1892. Some marks have been made in ink. The concerts are mainly held in the Music Hall, New York.
Concert schedule of the New York Symphony Orchestra, Nov 1892-Jan 1893
Creator: New York Symphony Orchestra (1878-present)
Dates: 1892
Description: Lists the dates, times and places of concerts of the Symphony Orchestra of New York for November 1892 - January 1893. The first 4 dates have been ticked in pencil and notes have been made by hand on the back. The concerts are held mainly in the Music Hall, New York.
Concert schedule of the Second Annual Spring Festival and Concert Tour
Creator: New York Symphony Orchestra (1878-present)
Dates: 1893
Description: This tour was directed by Morris Reno, and was of the "only permanent orchestra in New York". It began on 19 April and ended on 20 May. The tour covered much of the United States and also Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto in Canada.
Poster of the Schiller-Anstalt Concerts for the 1904-5 season, under the direction of Mr. Carl Fuchs
Description: Programme of the first concert of the Brodsky Quartet which took place in the old Gewandhaus Hall on Wednesday 6 February. The members of this original Brodsky Quartet were Adolf Brodsky, Ottokar Novacek, Hans Sitt and Leopold Grutzmacher. Brahms himself was present and performed the piano part in his sonata.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet and Brahms
Description: The concert was held on 2 Jan. The players were Johannes Brahms [piano], Brodsky, Becker [violins], Sitt [viola] and Klengel [violoncello].
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet and Busoni
Description: The concert was held on 19 Jan. The players were Ferruccio B. Busoni [piano], Brodsky, Becker [violins], Sitt [viola] and Klengel [violoncello].
Description: The concert was given in the presence of His Majesty King Albert was held in the Hall of the New Gewandhaus in Leipzig and was held on Thursday 28 February. Item not found, 5/4/06.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet and others
Description: The concert was held in the small hall of the New Gewandhaus on Saturday 22 March. The players were Herr Edvard Grieg [piano], Herr Brodsky, Fraulein May Brammer [violin 1], Herren Becker, Novacek II., [violin 2], Novacek I, Weber [viola], Klengel and Wille ['cello].
Programme of the first Gewandhaus Concert, conducted by Arthur Nikisch
Creator: Novello & Co. Ltd (1811-present), music publishers
Dates: c1913
Description: This Novello poster advertises the Elgar Violin Concerto to be performed by Adolph Brodsky under Franz Schalk in Vienna on 5 January 1914. The poster also publicises Novello's scores of the Elgar Violin Concerto and other works of Elgar.
Programme of the second concert of the first season of Musikforeningens (1890-1891)
Description: The programme includes photographs of Grieg, two of Troldhaugen one of which shows Grieg's house, the Brodsky Quartet, Fraulein Ellen Beck and Mr. Percy Grainger. The concert was held on Wednesday 23 Oct in the Queen's Hall.
Programme for two concerts at Carnegie Hall by the Boston Symphony Orchestra
Description: This concert was given on 8 August. It formed part of the Great Exhibition of 1882 in Moscow and was made up entirely by works of Tchaikovsky.
Progamme for a concert performed as part of the Siloti Concerts season 1909-1910
Description: This book is covered in black tooled leather bearing the inscription "Brodsky Quartett 1883/84 - 1890/91'. The programmes have been neatly stuck in, one to a page. The concerts before October 1885 were held in the old Gewandhaus and those after that were held in the small hall of the new Gewandhaus.
Creator: Pitfield, Alice Maud (1903-2000), Craftswoman
Dates: 1880
Description: Contains interesting biographical details about Adolph Brodsky. Alice Pitfield has translated the article from Russian into English. Her notes are written around the article, which has been stuck onto paper.
Article about Adolph Brodsky's Guarnerius violin from The Keif'ian
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1880
Description: This article provides information about Brodsky's violin. Alice Pitfield has translated the article from Russian into English. Her notes are written around the article, which has been stuck onto paper.
Creator: Pitfield, Alice Maud (1903-2000), Craftswoman
Dates: 1880
Description: This article narrates an amusing anecdote about Adolph Brodsky in the winter of 1873-4. Alice Pitfield has translated the article from Russian into English. Her notes are written around the article, which has been stuck onto paper.
Autograph marriage certificate of Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: 1880
Description: The marriage took place between Adolph Davidov Brodsky aged 29 and Anna L'vovna Skadowsky aged 27 on 1 May 1880 in Sebastopol Petropavloskaia Tserkov'. [Peter Paul Church]. The certificate has been stamped in Kherson on 8 May 1895 and again on 31 March 1903.
Description: Picture postcard of the Brodsky Quartet comprising Adolph Brodsky, Christopher Rawdon Briggs, Simon Speelman and Carl Fuchs. In Anna's hand, Annadolph Brodsky writes to Herr Dehn [Gustav Dehn] to thank him for his kind letter and expresses appreciation of the last two evenings with the Dehns and their mutual friend Siloti.
Photograph album belonging to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: undated
Description: This album covers the lives of Adolph and Anna Brodsky from their respective childhoods through Brodsky's musical career until they were well established in Manchester. Interpolated in the album are quotations of poetry in English and German and also extracts in very neat manuscript of concert pieces.
Photograph album of musicians belonging to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: undated
Description: In this album are photographs dating from before the Brodskys' period in Leipzig (1883-91) and from early years of their time in the Manchester area (1895-1929). All are of pupils e.g. Edith Robinson alone and with her string quartet, and friends.
Creator: Bendix, Victor Emmanuel (1851-1926), composer, conductor, pianist
Dates: 1884
Description: This photograph is in two parts; it appears to have been ripped in two. Bendix wrote on the back of the photograph: "to the dear couple from the original taken in summer '84'.
Description: Each chess player has signed this photograph: Rudolf Charousek, Johannes Metger, Geza Maroczy, Emanuel Schiffers, Szymon Winawer and Maurice Billecard
Description: On the back, Brahms written his best wishes to the Brodskys for their journey from Hamburg to New York; he looks forward to meeting them again.
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: undated
Description: Formal photograph of Adolph and Anna.
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: 1921
Description: The Brodskys are pictured looking at a pamphlet, held by Anna. Anna wrote on the back: "Love and best wishes for a Happy New Year to all our dear friends in Holmwood from Annadolph Brodsky. 1 Jan 1921'.
Photograph of Adolph and Anna Brodsky with members of the RMCM Club
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [early 20th cent]
Description: On Anna Brodsky's left sits Edward Isaacs.
Photograph of Anna and Adolph Brodsky and various others
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [1880s]
Description: Photograph of 12 adults and 3 small boys, taken out of doors against a wooded background. Adolph and Anna Brodsky are featured. The photograph may have been taken in Ukraine, and the other people may be members of Anna's family.
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1889
Description: On the back is written: "to the artiste-galantuomo par excellence Bach the Father, Beethoven the Son, Brahms the Holy Ghost. To remind him of his most truly grateful Hans von Bülow. Hamburg 22 October 1889.
Description: Busoni has written, in German, on the mount: "To Adolph and Anna Brodsky in gratitude for the seldom-heeded spiritual stimulation and the warm friendship, with best regards and love, Ferruccio Busoni. January 1899.
Creator: Casals, Pablo Pau (1876-1973), Cellist, Conductor, Pianist, Composer
Dates: [1908]
Description: Casals has written: "to Dr. A. Brodsky in profound personal and artistic sympathy. Bradford, 17 January 1909'. The top and bottom of the photograph have been cut off.
Creator: Dayas, William Humphreys (1863-1903), Professor of Pianoforte, RMCM
Dates: 1898
Description: Dayas has written: "to my dear friend Mr. Adolf Brodsky with heartiest greetings from the Elephant, 204 pounds. Manchester, September 21, 98. Welcome back!!'
Description: Grieg has written a message in Norwegian, which reads:"Memories of days at Troldhaugen to our dear friends, Anna and Adolph. Edvard Grieg.'
Description: The photograph is for Frau Olga but the Griegs have forgotten her maiden name and ask to be excused. They recall a happy time together. Both sign the back of the photograph. Leipzig 12 January 1898.
Photograph of Hamilton Harris as “Uther†in “The Birth of Arthurâ€, at the Glastonbury Festival
Creator: Klughardt, August (1847-1902), composer, conductor
Dates: [1880s]
Description: Klughardt has written: "To my splendid Brodsky in grateful memory of the Weimar Music Festival in 1884'. He also writes a phrase of music which may come from his Quartet in F major, op. 42, which received its first Leipzig performance on 12 March 1885.
Description: The soldier may possibly be Leon Picard, the nephew of Anna Brodsky through her sister Olga, who married a Frenchman. Leon Picard fought for the French in the Great War.
Description: The soldier may possibly be Leon Picard, the nephew of Anna Brodsky through her sister Olga, who married a Frenchman. Leon Picard fought for the French in the Great War.
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: undated
Description: On the back of this photograph (a picture postcard), Anna Brodsky writes to Emily whose postcard has delighted Anna and whom Anna misses greatly.
Autograph postcard signed from Hans Richter to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Sinding, Christian August (1856-1941), Composer
Dates: c1907
Description: On the back Sinding has written: "Frau Anna Brodsky in unaltered friendship and respect from Christian Sinding'. This was enclosed with the letter, AB/685.
Photograph of Rosalie Spohr, later Grafin von Sauerma
Creator: Steinitz, Wilhelm (1836-1900) chess master
Dates: 1894
Description: Wilhelm Steinitz (1836-1900) was the first person to be generally recognised as the World Champion of Chess, a title earned by his victory over Johann Zukertort in 1886 and held until 1894 when he was defeated by Emanuel Lasker. The date of this photograph was that on which the 6th game of the Lasker match was played at the Union Square Hotel, New York, after which the match moved to Philadelphia. The back of the photo is signed as follows: Union Square Hotel, March 30th 1894 Yours very truly W Steinitz To Professor A. Brodsky.
Description: At the bottom of this photograph is printed Schach-Gruss aus Wien to which I. Mieser has added by hand, to Professor and Mrs Brodsky hoping to see you here soon.
Photograph of the Guarnerius del Gesu violin belonging to Adolph Brodsky
Description: To the left of the violin has been printed very neatly Dr. Brodsky's Guarnerius del Gesu and to the right is the name of the photographer, F. W. Schmidt, Manchester.
Photograph of the Guarnerius del Gesu violin belonging to Adolph Brodsky
Description: To the left of the violin has been printed very neatly Dr. Brodsky's Guarnerius del Gesu and to the right is the name of the photographer, F. W. Schmidt, Manchester.
Photograph of the Guarnerius del Gesu violin belonging to Adolph Brodsky
Description: To the left of the violin has been printed very neatly Dr. Brodsky's Guarnerius del Gesu and to the right is the name of the photographer, F. W. Schmidt, Manchester.
Description: On the back of this photograph, Volkmann writes: To my dear colleague Maestro Brodsky in Leipzig in grateful memory of his unsurpassable playing and personal worthiness at the Tonkunstler gathering in Colne. End June 1887.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1908
Description: Regrets the death of the first patron Edvard Grieg, lists some of the works performed, presents a healthy balance sheet thanks to Mrs. Brodsky, Misses Gashell et al., and lists members of the R.M.C.M. Club.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1912
Description: This report again lists some of the works performed at meetings during the year. The finances are not in a satisfactory state because of outstanding subscriptions. The list of 101 club members is given at the end.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1913
Description: Lists office bearers, some of the works performed during the year and the balance sheet. The 93 members' names, addresses and instruments are given at the end.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1914
Description: Lists office bearers at the beginning and the 127 members at the end. Some of the music performed at the 8 meetings during the year is listed.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1916
Description: The Great War has curtailed the activities of the RMCM Club and a "Roll of Honour" has been established. A list of works performed is given. The 104 members with their addresses and instruments are given at the end.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1918
Description: The office bearers, works performed and performers, some of whom were pupils of members and the Roll of Honour, including 2 deaths in acton, are listed. The list of books in the growing library is given. The list of members with addresses and instruments is given at the end.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1919
Description: After the list of office bearers, a brief report of each meeting is given. The hope was expressed that membership will increase now that hostilities are over. The finances are in a poor state. The 112 members are listed at the end.
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer; Forbes, Robert Jaffrey (1879-1958), conductor, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1907
Description: Mrs. Brodsky was given this receipt after donating five pounds to the R.M.C.M. Club. It is dated 3 May 1907
Description: This is an invitation to Dr. and Mrs. Brodsky to meet Madame Grieg at a College reception at 7.30 followed by a short programme of Grieg music at 8pm.
Printed postcard announcing next RMCM Club meeting
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1911
Description: Announces that the 6th meeting of the RMCM Club [season 1910-1911] will take place on Thursday 27 April at 7.30pm. The card is postmarked 21 Apr 1911
Printed postcard to Anna Brodsky announcing RMCM Club whist drive
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1911
Description: Announces the RMCM Club whist drive with numerous souvenir prizes to be held on 15 June at 7.15pm at the College. The card is postmarked 26 May 1911.
Printed postcard to Anna Brodsky announcing 7th meeting of the RMCM Club
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1911
Description: The next RMCM Club meeting will be on Thursday 25 May at 7.30pm; there will be a whist drive on 15 June. The card is postmarked 13 May 1911.
Printed postcard to Anna Brodsky announcing 2nd RMCM Club meeting
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: 1912
Description: Announces the first meeting of the RMCM Club [session 1912-1913] on 21 October, at which the Committee expect Madame Grieg to be present. The card is postmarked 14 Oct 1912
Printed postcard to Anna Brodsky announcing the next RMCM Club meeting
Description: The dozen signatories call all former students to a meeting in Lees Hall on Saturday 13 April at 4pm to discuss the formation of a musical club for former students; dated 31 Mar 1907. There are two copies of this item.
Printed letter from Sarah Andrew et al. to RMCM colleagues
Description: After a general meeting of former students on 13 April 1907, it was decided to form a musical club to continue the work begun in college. The committee invites people to join and to pay their subscriptions.
Creator: Worsley, Alfred (fl.1910s-fl.1920s), composer
Dates: 1910
Description: There are two copies of this item. Consists of agenda for the next RMCM Club meeting, as well as a voting form for members of the Committee 1910-1911. Adolph Brodsky has made notes on the back of one copy.
Printed invitation from Alfred Worsley to members of the RMCM Club
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [post-1917]
Description: A short story, written some time after the Russian Revolution as Anna Brodsky adds a note that this is taken from her book "Father Nicolas" and in view of the present New Russia she has changed the title to"Dear Old Russia".
Description: This is a complimentary copy. The pages of this paperbook are uncut and we may assume that this particular book was not read by Adolph Brodsky.
"Antoine Stradivarius: sa vie et son oeuvre [1644-1737] / avec une introduction de Camille Barrere; traduit de l'anglais par Maurice Reynold avec le concours de Louis Cezard "
Description: Items 409-414 in this catalogue are autograph letters signed from Edvard Grieg. These vary in price from 7 pounds 10 shillings to 4 guineas and date from 1870 to 1894. A summary of the contents of each letter is given. A couple of the letters are to Hallé.
"Briefe : in Auswahl herausgegeben von Albert Leitzmann'
Description: This book is a gift from N. Benis to Adolph Brodsky: "In friendly remembrance of you and dear Adolf's visit in Vienna 17.9.11. The concert director N. Benis.'
Photocopy of an advertisement for Baldwin Pianos signed by Karin Dayas
Creator: Ysaÿe, Antoine (1894-1979), music publisher
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Letter dated 25 Feb 1920. Antoine Ysaye, son of the violinist Eugène, writes to recommend and bring to Brodsky's attention the method [of violin playing] of Mathieu Crickboom which, in his father's opinion, is the best and most complete which has been conceived to date. Not found, 7 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed on behalf of the Society from Victor Tranovsky to Adolph Brodsky, dated 19 March/1 April 1909.
Creator: Bachmann, Alberto (1875-1963) violinist, composer, author
Dates: 1923
Description: Letter is dated 3 Sep 1923. Bachmann sends Brodsky a letter from Bernhoff [see AB/322L] to whom Bachmann has just sent millions of marks now worth less than the paper on which they are printed. He sympathises with the innocents who have suffered at the hands of William and his awful son, protected by Wilhelmina, weighing 110 kilos. In a postscript Bachmann asks if Brodsky has received his 3rd concerto. In French.
Autograph letter signed from Olga Skadowsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: This letter is from Anna's sister, Olga Skadowsky. The letter has been written to Anna after the Brodskys' return to England in 1915 following their release from internment. Olga has just received Anna's first letter from Bowdon. She has already received letters from Basel, Lausanne, Paris and London. Olga thought of Anna on the 11th, her birthday and on the 30th, their wedding anniversary. Olga reports on the crops, now benefiting from a few days of rain, on her milkmaid and she is very anxious about Leon her son who is working too hard - he has not had a day's holiday for three years. Olga asks what Adolph is studying and inquires about Chausson's Poème. She reports that she will be having three weeks' holiday to study grammar and nineteenth century literature. She will travel by train to Odessa to bathe in the sea. Olga is keen to hear about the welcome for the Brodskys on their return to England. In French.
Autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Olga Skadowsky.
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: 1919
Description: Leon Skadowsky is a brother of Anna and Olga. The family comprised 11 children. Anna is delighted to have received Olga's letter dated 24 December 1918. The previous letter received from Olga had been written in November 1917. Letters sent by Anna to Olga had been returned by the English post and Anna had ceased to write. Leon, Olga's son, is fine. He had been working as a chemist near Paris at Aubervillier Fort where his legs were twice severely burned by acid and he was sent to the Mediterranean for several weeks to recover. Leon Skadowsky has seen Leon in Paris and he is well. Leon no longer works as a chemist but as an interpreter thanks to his knowledge of languages. Leon Skadowsky is well and is a teacher at the air-firing school in the Gironde but is seeking a job for when he is demobilised. The Brodskys have given financial aid to both of the Leons. Anna is distressed to learn of the cruel death of her sister Marie. Anna adds in a postscript that Adolph has not changed nor has their life, but Anna herself has aged. In French.
Autograph letter signed from Olga Skadowsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Olga signs herself Skadowsky Picard. Olga is very concerned about her son Leon and the serious consequences of his burns sustained in the war. She fears that Anna is hiding the truth from her. She encloses a letter for Leon and asks Anna to send it on. She has not heard from Leon although she has been writing to him poste restante, rue du Louvre. She is well and all are well at Cherson and Moscow although aging and becoming weaker. Waria has absolutely nothing but Olga earns enough to help her and has sent tea, coffee, sugar, matches and olive oil which should last out until the spring. Olga appreciates the generous help the Brodskys have given to Leon. Olga finds no time to read but she can enjoy the stars, moon, sun, sky and treetops from her bedroom window. Olga asks for her brother's address. In French, and is dated 22 Oct/4 Nov 1919.
Autograph letter signed from Olga Skadowsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Olga is glad to have heard from Anna and to know that they are well but is very distressed about poor Leon. She wants to go to him but cannot afford to. She has a guaranteed income where she is but would not be able to work in France. She has aged greatly externally but is still strong although less sensitive and hardened. She needs to hear Adolph play and perhaps change. Every one at Odessa, Cherson and Moscow is alive and suffering. Olga begs for the truth about Leon. She does not want him to go back to chemistry but desires him to go in for agriculture, for which Europe has great need. The letter is in French and is dated 24 Jan 1920.
Autograph letter signed from Olga Skadowsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Olga hopes that Anna has received her letter sent to Manchester and also one from Vara sent to the same address. Leon was with her and she had not time to write at length. Olga heard by telephone that a friend of Elena Borisovna had found the Brodskys healthy and happy. Olga is in the country 22 versts from Odessa where she was last year. She had hoped to have Leon with her for a month but he is too busy working in the lAB/in place of the dead and at the hospital in place of those who are spending the whole summer in the country. Olga has resumed her sea-bathing and recommends that Vara follows her example. The summer is very long for Olga this year. Classes finished on 18th April and the exams on the 29th. She is pleased to be able to help at the creche for children whose fathers have gone to the war. She will teach the 6 and 7 year-olds to sew. Olga has not heard from Leon for 10 days. Anna's letters take 15 days to arrive. Olga went to vespers yesterday to please the pleasant priest. The letter is in French and is dated 8 Jun 1921.
Autograph letter signed from Olga Skadowsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Olga enquires solicitously for the health of her sister. For 2 months she has heard nothing. She greatly desires to see her sister. Some time ago she received authorisation to travel abroad and will make use of it as soon as possible. Wara thanks the Brodskys. She is now staying with 2 sisters in a little room outside the convent which no longer exists. Olga has not seen her for 4 years. The letter is written in French and is dated 15 Aug 1922.
Autograph letter signed from Olga Skadowsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Olga signs herself Picard Skadowsky Olga enquires about Anna's health as she has not heard for 2 months. She thanks Adolph for the provisions and Wara's have already been sent. Olga is delighted that Adolph has been able to procure her authorisation to go abroad and she received authorisation to go to Bowden 15 days ago and she will make use of it as soon as possible. She looks forward greatly to seeing them, speaking to them, hearing about the quartet and the conservatoire, etc. The letter is probably dated 15 Aug 1922, and contains similar themes to those in AB/314a. It is written in French.
Autograph letter from Olga Skadowsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: This letter is incomplete. Olga writes to wish Adolph a happy birthday. She has not heard from the Brodskys for 14 months although she has written many times. Nor has she heard from Leon for 14 months. Olga is well and working harder than ever but the family has suffered great misfortunes: Marie, Georges and Iurek have all been killed: dead, like hero-martyrs. Wara is becoming weaker. Olga will soon send Adolph the address of Gabriel Picard with the request to ask him if Leon has arrived in France. Olga last had a card from him in Finland or near Finland en route for the War. The letter is written in French, and is dated 18/5 Mar.
Fragment of an autograph letter signed from Olga Skadowsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Olga's stock of wood is not yet exhausted. The sea is frozen as far as the eye can see and there have been vast falls of snow this year. Olga is well, especially when she remembers to eat little as recommended by Stooss. The cupola of the cathedral has a great crevice inside. Concerts are organised on Sundays to pay for the repair work. There is fine singing of Tchaikovsky. Olga continues to give lessons. The letter is written in French.
Autograph postcard signed from Olga Skadowsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Olga is well and working hard. She anxiously awaits news of Leon's departure from Moscow. She met a friend who is very thin but happy because her grandchildren have asked her to go and stay with them. She advises Anna to rest and not to overdo public-speaking. The letter is in French, and is postmarked 21 Oct 1917.
Typescript postcard from Methuen & Co. Ltd. to Olga Skadowsky
Description: This letter may be written by one of Olga's French pupils. Joan invites Madame Picard to tea on Wednesday at 4 o'clock or on Wednesday morning if that is better. She will tell Madame about their French holiday and show her photographs and postcards. The letter is in French and is dated 12 Nov 1929.
Autograph picture postcard signed from A. Jutean to Leon Picard
Description: Jutean cannot find any other postcard in Rouen. His sister is not well. All is finished for good with E.; she was only an actress. His cousin Bryluiwi has been put out to Baringer and Collin has taken his place. All is well but his health is not great. The letter is in French and is dated 9 Feb 1914.
Autograph letter signed from Ivor Bernhoff to Alberto Bachmann
Description: This letter was enclosed with a letter to Brodsky [AB/308L]. Bernhoff is overcome with gratitude at receiving a gift of money which has enabled him to procure meat, eggs, butter and milk which he has not tasted for months. Hartmann's letter has brought hope to Bernhoff and restored his faith in humanity. When he recalls the years in Leipzig chez le bon Professeur Brodsky and others, he could weep. Bernhoff works night and day. He can no longer play the violin as he has almost lost his hearing through lack of food during the war. He describes how inflation is galloping. His violin, library and possessions are worth millions and millions of marks: everything is rising in value daily. Bachmann has asked how he can help and Bernhoff suggests that he needs 5 francs daily to live. In return for this Bachmann will become Bernhoff's heir. The letter is in French and is dated 30 Aug 1923
Autograph letter signed from Olga Shoon to Olga Skadowsky
Description: A few words have been added in Russian in either Anna Brodsky's or Olga Skadowsky's hand: Letters from Odessa and other places. Olga's husband has been struck down by a terrible 'flu epidemic and is incapable of any correspondence. Olga has also been in bed but fortunately is now better. Olga asks how her son is. Olga's husband was delighted to receive the cards from Aberystwyth. The letter is in French and is dated 17 Jan 1927.
Autograph letter signed from Olga Skadowsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Olga has just received a letter from her sister Anna, the first sign of life [since the Brodskys were interned as prisoners of war in Austria at the outbreak of the Great War]. Olga reassures her sister that they are all well and continuing as before. Only nephews Lev and Vladimir are differently employed. Olga's son Leon, now reformed is still in Moscow where he is buying a house. Olga's husband Georg is now employed with grain. Olga has also written to Nina Grieg in Bergen. Olga is very relieved that Anna is walking much. Awful weather prevents Olga from going out walking. The letter is written in German and is dated 19 Oct/1 Nov 1914.
Autograph letter signed to Anna Brodsky from WH Dayas
Creator: Dayas, William Humphreys (1863-1903), Professor of Pianoforte, RMCM
Dates: 1898
Description: Dayas has a stray cat for a week and describes the accidental death of another cat in the street. The letter is in German and is dated 21 Sep 1898.
Autograph letter signed to Adolph Brodsky from WH Dayas
Creator: Dayas, William Humphreys (1863-1903), Professor of Pianoforte, RMCM
Dates: 1900
Description: Dayas invites the Brodskys to hear his violoncello sonata played by Fuchs at Gromme's the following week and suggests the possibility of a play-through at the Brodskys' home. The letter is in German and is dated 12 Nov 1900.
Autograph letter signed to Adolph Brodsky from WH Dayas
Creator: Dayas, William Humphreys (1863-1903), Professor of Pianoforte, RMCM
Dates: 1902
Description: Dayas thanks Brodsky for a wonderful quartet concert and regrets that the series has now come to an end. The letter is in German and is dated 6 Mar 1902.
Autograph letter signed from Annie and Johan Halvorsen to the Brodskys
Creator: Halvorsen, Annie (1873-1957); Halvorsen, Johan August (1864-1935), composer, conductor, violinist
Dates: 1907
Description: The Halvorsens thank the Brodskys for photographs they have sent and wish the Brodskys a happy new year. They often socialise with the Griegs. Anna Brodsky's sister has sent a new year card to Annie. Dated 3 Jan 1927. Not found, 7 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Johan Halvorsen to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Halvorsen, Johan August (1864-1935), composer, conductor, violinist
Dates: 1907
Description: Halvorsen recalls the sad days after Grieg's death which they have just experienced together. Halvorsen praises Brodsky's art and encloses a score of Fossegrimen and a symphonic intermezzo. He must do further work to the violin concerto and then send it to Brodsky. The letter is dated 23 Sep 1907. Not found, 7 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Annie and Johan Halvorsen to the Brodskys
Creator: Halvorsen, Annie (1873-1957); Halvorsen, Johan August (1864-1935), composer, conductor, violinist
Dates: 1912
Description: The Halvorsens thank the Brodsky's [for their seasonal wishes] Johan continues with his compositional work and is relieved that the public has not yet tired of it. Johan is missing their mutual friend Grieg. The letter is dated 1 Jan 1912. Not found, 7 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Johan Halvorsen to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Halvorsen, Johan August (1864-1935), composer, conductor, violinist
Dates: 1924
Description: Halvorsen recalls the happy days of their youth in Leipzig. He regrets that Anna is ill. His orchestra has become a philharmonic union but Halvorsen spent only one year there as he did not get on with the management. He returned to the National Theatre from which he will receive a pension. Halvorsen has been elected to the Royal Swedish Academy of Music. He mentions his compositions. Now almost 80 Nina Grieg is on a concert tour in Denmark. Halvorsen bemoans the demise of so many of their friends but rejoices that Brodsky is still alive and working. Dated 20 Dec 1924. Not found, 7 Apr 2006
Typescript letter signed from Herzog Georg von Mecklenburg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Georg Alexander (1859-1909), Georg Alexander Michael Friedrich Wilhelm Franz Carl, Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
Dates: 1894
Description: Herzog Georg urges Adolph Brodsky to establish a quartet for him but realises that Brodsky has a prior engagement in Bremen. The letter is in German and is dated 19/31 Dec 1894.
Autograph letter signed from Herzog Georg von Mecklenburg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Georg Alexander (1859-1909), Georg Alexander Michael Friedrich Wilhelm Franz Carl, Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
Dates: 1895
Description: Georg enquires if Brodsky likes Manchester and begs him to come to lead his quartet for a salary of 5000 roubles. The letter (with accompanying envelope) is in German and is dated 13 May 1895
Typescript letter signed from Herzog Georg von Mecklenburg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Georg Alexander (1859-1909), Georg Alexander Michael Friedrich Wilhelm Franz Carl, Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
Dates: 1895
Description: Herzog Georg has received Brodsky's letter informing him that he is already engaged. Georg will renew his offer in January 1896. In the meantime he will engage a young quartet for the winter season 1895/96. In a P.S. Georg requests Brodsky's address in Manchester. The letter is in German and is dated 18 Jun 1895.
Typescript letter signed from Herzog Georg von Mecklenburg-Strelitz to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Georg Alexander (1859-1909), Georg Alexander Michael Friedrich Wilhelm Franz Carl, Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
Dates: 1895/96
Description: Georg again invites Brodsky to lead his future string quartet at an annual salary of 5000 roubles. Georg has heard that Brodsky likes Manchester and is soon to become Principal of the RMC. Should Brodsky decline the post as leader of Gorg's quartet Georg will look for another violinist immediately. The letter is in German and is dated 21 Dec/2 Jan 1895/96.
Autograph letter signed from Josef Merz to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Josef Merz gives family news in his Christmas letter to Adolph Brodsky. He hopes to meet the quartet possibly in Berlin or even in Brunn after their concert tour to St.Petersburg and Moscow. The letter is in German and is dated 14 Dec 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Josef Merz to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Josef Merz invites Brodsky and Anna to spend a few days with him after their visit to Russia. Merz wonders if a concert may be arranged for this occasion and hopes eventually for the Elgar concerto. He continues with family news and mentions that his son Viktor prefers playing the piano and composing to working in the factory. The letter is in German and is dated 28 Jul 1913.
Autograph letter signed from Josef Merz to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Josef Merz regrets that Brodsky does not write to him. Nor has he heard from Benis who is even lazier at writing than Brodsky himself. Since the end of the war Merz has not been going to Vienna because of passport and boundary difficulties. Merz recalls Adolph as the little 10-year-old boarder at the Pick Institute who is now a great and famous violinist. Here he is, about to celebrate his seventieth birthday. He sends warm birthday wishes and hopes to see him soon. The letter is in German and is dated 2 Nov 1921.
Autograph letter signed from Arthur Friedheim to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Friedheim, Arthur (1859-1932), Pianist, Conductor, Composer
Dates: 1903
Description: Friedheim writes at great length to Brodsky. Friedheim has been very favourably impressed with Manchester and its surroundings and appreciates the friendship given by Brodsky and his wife. He has binding commitments with the Guildhall School of Music but is proposing to come to Manchester for 6 months to continue the work of William Dayas. The letter is in German and is dated 26 Jul 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Arthur Friedheim to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Friedheim, Arthur (1859-1932), Pianist, Conductor, Composer
Dates: 1903
Description: Friedheim asks Brodsky what he means by reasonable terms. He would like to confirm which days he will work [Tuesday - Friday, Wednesday - Saturday?]. The letter is written in German and is dated 13 Sep 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Nellie Fuchs to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nellie Fuchs writes a letter of sympathy and condolence on the death of Adolph Brodsky. Contributions also from Carl Fuchs and Daisy Jordan. The letter is in German and is dated 24 Jan 1929.
Autograph letter signed from Ernst Hoffzimmer to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Hoffzimmer, Ernest Kaspar (1877-1957) pianist, music teacher
Dates: 1903
Description: Hoffzimmer has just learned of the death of his former teacher [Dayas]. After a brief tribute Hoffzimmer launches into a very detailed account of his education, musical successes and travels over the last few years. He now teaches at the conservatoire in Dusseldorf. The letter is in German and is dated 9 Jun 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Gustav Dehn to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Dehn, Gustav (fl.1890s-1910s), Royal Manchester College of Music Council member
Dates: 1911
Description: Gustav Dehn thanks Anna Brodsky for her hospitality to his wife, himself and their guests on Sunday afternoon. The letter is in German and is dated 13 May 1911.
Autograph letter signed from Leo von Dobriansky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Brodsky has been enquiring about Dobriansky's violins through Herr Rosenmeyer of Frankfurt. Dobriansky has a very good example of his work available and will be happy to let Brodsky try the instrument when he is in Odessa. He requests Brodsky's address in Odessa and gives his own in a postscript. The letter is in German and is dated 4 Jul 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Johanne Stockmarr to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Stockmarr gives Brodsky the dates of her engagements in London in October and hopes that a suitable date will be found for her to play in Brodsky's concert in Manchester. She will be in England for about a month from October 15. The letter is in German and is dated 8 Jun 1909.
Autograph letter signed from E. Setzer to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Setzer thanks Brodsky for the previous evening's performance of Iphigenie in Aulis and enthuses over the orchestra and soloists. Letter is in German and is dated 7 Apr 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Hermann Gradener to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Gradener replies to Brodsky in New York which is lucky to have such a person as Brodsky in its midst. Gradener asks Brodsky to greet various musical friends when he meets them. Gradener's quintet [in C minor] is to be performed on the same evening as Sinding's. The letter is in German and is dated 21 Oct 1891.
Autograph postcard signed from Leone Sinigaglia to Adolph Brodsky
Description: In April Sinigaglia requested Breitkopf & Härtel to send Brodsky his new violin concerto. Sinigaglia is now wondering if Brodsky has received the consignment and if he will be able to work on it during the summer holidays. The letter is in German and is dated 6 Jul 1903.
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor; Richter, Marie (1855-fl.1920s)
Dates: 1905
Description: Hans and Maria Richter send congratulations and all good wishes in verse to Adolph and Anna Brodsky on the occasion of their silver wedding. The letter (with accompanying envelope) is in German and is dated 13 May 1905.
Autograph visiting card signed from Adolph Brodsky to Heinrich von Herzogenberg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [1880s]
Description: Adolph Brodsky uses one of Heinrich von Herzogenberg's visiting cards to convey a message to him in his absence. Brodsky has called to say farewell as they go off in a couple of days. He hopes they will resume good neighbourly relations next autumn. The note is in German and is dated [21 Jan].
Autograph picture postcard signed from Ludka Kromer-Merz to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Ludka wishes Uncle Brodsky and Aunt Anna a happy Easter and hopes both are well. Viktor and Mary Merz add their good wishes for Easter. The card is in German and is postmarked 20 Apr 1927.
Typescript letter signed from Gustav Maurer & Johann Paul to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Maurer, Gustav (fl.1920s); Paul, Johann (fl.1920s)
Dates: 1921
Description: The president and secretary of the Austrian league of music and singing appeal to Brodsky to help rebuild the Austrian musical tradition with new blood after the upheaval of the Great War. The letter (with accompanying envelope) is in German and is dated 27 Jun 1921. Not found, 7 Apr 2006
Autograph card from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1889
Description: The Norwegian colony in Leipzig, the Griegs, expresses great appreciation of the outstanding violinist's kind attention to Norwegian musical interests. The letter (with accompanying envelope) is in German and is dated 28 Feb 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Gertrud Fridberg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Gertrud Fridberg tells Anna Brodsky how much pleasure she has had reading her book (Recollections of a Russian home). Alooshta reminds Gertrud of the summer spent in Skelleflea in Sweden. Unfortunately her husband does not understand enough English to read it. However Gisa has enjoyed it very much. Gisela herself adds her own words of appreciation. She has been busy working for her state exams and has scarcely time for any non-scientific reading. She has heard from earliest childhood from her father about Anna and her husband. Fridberg himself adds a note to Adolph Brodsky: he has mentioned in an article that Brahms believed Die Meistersinger to be the best of Wagner's work. Friberg wonders if Brodsky, who knew Brahms, can provide any further information on the matter. The letter is in German and is dated 23 May 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Olga Neruda to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Neruda, Olga (1858-1945) pianist, teacher at the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1921
Description: Olga writes at great length to Brodsky. At the outbreak of the Great War she was in Wiesbaden and as she could not return to London in the September, she lost her post at the Guildhall School of Music. She then spent a few years in Kobenhagen where she had a few really good pupils. Now she has been staying with her sister Eugenie Lindblad and has a few pupils but is feeling very dispirited. Despite 2 orchestras, the musical life in Stockholm is very poor. Olga enquires about the Hallé and wonders who is the conductor now. Olga recommends conductor Georg Schneevoigt to Brodsky. He is very keen to come to Manchester. His wife was a pupil of Dayas in Helsinfors [Helsinki] and also came to study in Manchester one winter 1901-1902 and was often in Olga's house. In a postscript, Olga adds that, she, born in Brunn, now belongs to Czechoslovakia and may now come to England. The letter is dated 9 May 1921. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Wilma Hallé to Adolph Brodsky, with accompanying envelope
Creator: Hallé, Wilma Maria Francisca (1839-1911), Violinist
Dates: 1899
Description: Wilma thanks Brodsky for his letter and invitation to stay. She is not planning to come to England as she has arranged tours in Sweden, Norway and Finland. She sends Christmas and new year greetings to the Brodskys. In a postscript she adds that she will be playing with Grieg his 3 violin sonatas in Kobenhagen on 9 January. The letter is dated 19 Dec 1899.
Autograph picture postcard signed from Wilma Hallé and Olga Neruda to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Hallé, Wilma Maria Francisca (1839-1911), Violinist
Dates: 1906
Description: Wilma Hallé invites Anna Brodsky to tea at the Midland as Olga's flat is too small to accommodate 4 persons. The letter is dated 9 Feb 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Wilma Hallé to Adolph Brodsky, with accompanying envelope
Creator: Hallé, Wilma Maria Francisca (1839-1911), Violinist
Dates: [early 20th cent]
Description: Wilma Hallé informs Brodsky that a grand piano will not be required on stage on Thursday as she will play the Lalo with orchestra and then one of the Beethoven Romances.
Autograph letter signed from Wilma Hallé to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Hallé, Wilma Maria Francisca (1839-1911), Violinist
Dates: [early 20th cent]
Description: Wilma Hallé would like to play the duet in D with Brodsky and asks if he would send the music the following day if he has it. She suggests a play-through on the 19th as she will be in Huddersfield on the 20th. They will of course play only 2 movements.
Typescript letter signed by Hermann [illegible] from Concert-Direction Hermann Wolff to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Concert Direction Hermann Wolff (1880-fl.1908) music agency
Dates: 1908
Description: This letter corrects one from the previous day. Busoni will not be able to play in Manchester on 25 November as he is booked for Nottingham that day. A complete list of Busoni's English engagements is given. He will be in Manchester on 7 December. The letter is dated 6 Oct 1908. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter stamped M. Welleminsky to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Prager Schinken und Selchwaren Exporthaus (fl.1910s), Prague Ham and Smokers Export House Welleminsky
Dates: 1913
Description: Official paper of Prager Schinken und Selchwaren Exporthaus printed in blue with trademark of swineherd and pigs against the background of St. Vitus Cathedral. Brodsky's pork-curer sends a receipt and mentions that there should be a new delivery on 25 September after which date best-selected wares will be sent. The letter is dated 12 Jul 1913. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from D. Dlabac to Adolph & Anna Brodsky
Description: Some time has elapsed since Dlabac heard from the Brodskys of their return to Manchester. He also received 2 cards from them in Switzerland. Dlabac has been looking out for the Brodskys' friend Benis who is still in Vienna in the hope of hearing news of them. He remains silent about the times of trouble but pays tribute to the great art of music. The letter is dated 30 Jun 1915.
Autograph letter signed from D. Dlabac to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Dlabac is delighted that the Brodskys will soon be in Vienna. He wonders if, after taking the cure in Marienbad, Brodsky will be able to give an orchestral concert in Vienna. In this event Dlabac would like to include a programme note about the length of his stay in Vienna. The letter is dated 4 Sep 1921.
Autograph postcard signed from N. Benis to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Benis, N. (fl.1900s-fl.1920s), concert director
Dates: 1927
Description: Benis tells Brodsky that Herr Maaskoff has played with tremendous success in Vienna the previous day. Anton Maaskoff adds in English a few words of appreciation of Dr Dlabac and Mr Benis. Dlabac and Rudolf Schneider also sign the card. The card is dated 29 Jan 1927.
Autograph letter signed from Mauriz Krumholz to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Krumholz writes at great length to Brodsky about the post-war work of the Musikfreunde in Vienna and asks for Brodsky's support. They are planning to purchase 31 instruments some of which, including a Jakob Steiner 'cello, are quite outstanding. The letter is dated 9 May 1920. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Mauriz Krumholz to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Krumholz replies to Brodsky's letter dated 15 May. He expresses appreciation of Brodsky's help and gives a detailed account of the work being done. The letter is dated 31 May 1920. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Mauriz Krumholz to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Krumholz replies to Brodsky's letter dated 17 June. He expresses further appreciation of Brodsky's help and gives more details of the work being done and in particular of the purchase of violins. Krumholz has been advised by the violin-maker George Rauer. There are 3 Italian violins including a Bergonzi and a Guadagnini which was played for many years as first violin in the Fitzer Quartet. The letter is dated 17 Jun 1920. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Typescript letter signed from Doktor Dlabac to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Dr. Dlabac opens his letter to Brodsky with the desire that he will come back immediately to Vienna. He hopes that the Brodskys have had a pleasant time with Benis in Marienbad and that Anna will soon be restored to good health. However the real motive of this letter is to invite Brodsky to return to Vienna to replace Professor Sevcik who has gone back to Prague. Rose will also no longer be teaching at the Vienna Academy from the start of the next academic year. He is often abroad on concert tours with his quartet. The letter is dated 14 Sep 1921. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Typescript letter signed from Max Graf to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Now that the war is over Max Graf is able to communicate again by post. He is preparing a weekly musical periodical called Musikalischer Kurier not only contributing to the post-war recovery of Austrian music but also for the communication of international musicians. Graf appeals to Brodsky to write an article on the English musician's attitude to German music. No matter how short the essay the Viennese musician friends will be delighted to receive it. The letter is dated 28 Aug 1919. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Typescript letter signed from Max Graf to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Max Graf has not received a reply to his letter written a month ago. He now repeats an appeal from Dr. Josef Resch on behalf of the welfare of Viennese children more than half of whom are suffering from tuberculosis. Graf hopes that Brodsky will dedicate a concert to this cause. Graf would like to hear of other musical personalities in England to whom he may make this appeal. The letter is dated 3 Jan 1920. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Typescript letter signed from Max Graf to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Max Graf thanks Brodsky for his letter and for Anna Brodsky's book. Max Graf has heard Brodsky's pupil Maaskoff play at Herr Benis' house and was much impressed. He hopes that Maaskoff will be able to play at a concert in Vienna but times are even more difficult than usual for unknown musicians. The letter is dated 24 Jan 1921. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Typescript letter signed from N. Benis to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Benis, N. (fl.1900s-fl.1920s), concert director
Dates: 1921
Description: Benis informs Brodsky of how the funds are being apportioned: from the total of c. 400.000.-- crowns, 150.0000.--crowns to action for the children; for Resch's work 50.000.--crowns; for a Jewish children's home 100.000 crowns; for the Musik-Akademie, 100.000.-- crowns. Acknowledgments of the gifts will be sent out later. The letter is dated 21 May 1921. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Typescript letter signed from N. Benis to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Dr. Resch describes the suffering and wretchedness of the poor children of Vienna and appeals to Brodsky for help. He mentions that Max Graf with whom Resch has entrusted the theatre and music lectures for the child action, will also be in touch with Brodsky on the subject of aid for the children. The letter is dated 13 Dec 1920.
Typescript letter signed from Josef Resch to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Dr. Resch has received a reply from Brodsky and is delighted that he will give a concert in Manchester in January or February for the benefit of the children. The letter is dated 11 Jan 1921.
Typescript letter signed from Josef Resch to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Dr. Resch expresses his thanks for and appreciation of a concert which Brodsky and Miss Sarah Andrew have given in Manchester. This has raised 50,000 crowns to benefit the poor children. In a footnote Resch mentions that he has also written a letter of thanks to Miss Andrew. The letter is dated 2 May 1921. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Typescript letter signed from Walter Breisky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Walter Breisky thanks Brodsky for his gift of 100.000 Kronen to establish a fund for students of the violin who are lacking means. Breisky expresses appreciation of Brodsky's great interest in the famous Wiener Musikschule during its struggle against the present unfavourable circumstances. Breisky was Vice-chancellor of the Austrian Government from 21 July 1921 to 24 May 1922 and responsible for Education and Culture from 27 January to 24 May 1922. The letter is dated 28 Jan 1922.
Autograph letter signed from Franz Schalk to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Schalk replies to a letter from Brodsky concerning a concert tour. He thinks that 40 concerts will be impossible. Schalk would like to know about the programmmes, whether choral or symphonic. He also has engagements with the London Symphony Orchestra. The letter is dated 21 Feb 1911.
Autograph letter signed from Franz Schalk to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Schalk is annoyed that Mr. Forsyth has offered him an honorarium which is much less than he is accustomed to receiving on the continent. He is also dissatisfied with arrangements and at the long silence in his dealings with Manchester. The letter is dated 27 Oct 1911.
Autograph letter signed from Franz Schalk to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Schalk is arranging a concert for Brodsky in Vienna next January. Brodsky has suggested Bach's A minor violin concerto and the Elgar violin concerto which up to now has had little success in Vienna, despite attempts by Ysaye and Kreisler. Schalk requests a speedy reply from Brodsky. The letter is dated 9 Jun 1913.
Autograph letter signed from H. H. Wetzler to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Wetzler, Hermann Hanz (1870-1943) composer
Dates: 1920
Description: Wetzler has met Mr. Barker in Cologne and they have been recalling with great joy Brodsky's years in New York. Wetzler tells Brodsky that he is Kapellmeister of Cologne Opera and is now a successful composer. His music to Shakespeare's "As you like it" is especially popular and the overture has been performed in 50 towns in Germany and conducted by all the great conductors including Nikisch, Strauss, Pfitzner and Hausegger. It will also be played in Switzerland and probably also in New York and Chicago. As he is a native born citizen of the United States there should be no problems. Wetzler encloses a few reviews [and requests their return in a PS] and offers to send the score to Brodsky with a view to a performance in Manchester. In a PS, Wetzler asks if there is a possibility of his conducting on one occasion in Manchester. The letter is dated 18 Mar 1920. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Peperl to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Peperl writes most enthusiastically to Onkel Bobby [later Bobby] to thank him for for the English magazines which arrived on his 17th birthday, the previous day. Peperl was delighted to find something Viennese, viz. the Beethoven memorial celebrating the centenary of his death on 26 March. Peperl pays great tribute to Beethoven and describes the international event at which 13 different countries were represented. Schools were closed and there is a week of Beethoven evenings. An event from the Musikvereinssaal was broadcast on radio. The letter is dated 30 Mar 1928.
Autograph letter signed from N. Simrock to Ottokar Novacek
Description: Simrock informs Novacek that his firm only sends music for cash payment. The music has still to be written out but will be done when payment is received from Herr Brodsky. Novacek sends the letter on to Brodsky with a note that he cannot lay out such a sum and that he has told Simrock that Brodsky will reply to him. The letter is dated 3 Apr 1898.
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1889
Description: A printed telegram of the German Reich with the message written by hand. Von Bulow and others in Hamburg send their heartfelt thanks to Brodsky in Leipzig. The telegram is dated 10 Mar 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Hans Richter to Adolph Brodsky, with accompanying envelope
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1901
Description: Richter writes to Brodsky in a very light-hearted vein after a turbulent crossing to Ireland. Burton ought to be studying his recitative diligently to know it by heart but he will be alright in the arias. The letter is dated 10 Mar 1901.
Autograph letter signed from J. Adler to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Adler thanks Brodsky for his letter. He wonders about the possibility of a quartet tour in the United States. He hopes that Adolph and Anna have enjoyed their visit to Russia. The letter is dated 12 Nov 1900.
Autograph letter signed from Otto Gunther to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Günther, Otto (1822-1897), lawyer, City Councillor, Music Director at Leipzig Conservatory
Dates: 1883
Description: The Leipzig Royal Conservatoire of Music writes to offer the post of professor of violin to Brodsky in succession to Schradieck who is leaving for America. The letter outlines salary and conditions of service. The appointment is from 1 Apr 1883 to 31 Mar 1884. The letter is dated 9 Jan 1883. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Otto Gunther to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Günther, Otto (1822-1897), lawyer, City Councillor, Music Director at Leipzig Conservatory
Dates: 1883
Description: Doktor Otto Gunther acknowledges Brodsky's signed contract and friendly accompanying note. The Leipziger Tageblatt has reported Brodsky's appointment. Teaching begins on 2 April and Doktor Gunther suggests that Brodsky may like to come towards the middle of March. He welcomes Brodsky very warmly and looks forward to seeing him very soon. The letter is dated 12 Jan 1883.
Autograph letter signed from Heele and Felix Berber to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Berber, Felix (1871-1930), violinist; Berber, Heele (fl.1900s)
Dates: 1903
Description: Felix Berber finally puts his intention of writing to Brodsky into practice and sends a very long letter. He lists his engagements which include the Brahms Double Concerto with Klengel and will be in Leipzig, Halle, Saarbrucken, Coblenz, Rostock and elsewhere. Berber has heard Novacek's 8 Conzertstucke and found them interesting. The letter is dated 3 Aug 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Felix Berber to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Berber has been delighted to receive Brodsky's letter. They had been on a quartet tour in which his wife played 2nd violin. Berber gives news and recalls meeting Olga and Brodsky's nephew and an incident with the Brodsky dog in 1887. The letter is dated 29 Mar 1926. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter signed from Felix Berber to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Berber writes to Brodsky about forthcoming engagements: he will play the Beethoven concerto with Pfitzner. The quartet has previously played a concert of Beethoven. Berber may come to England in the summer. The letter is dated 18 Mar 1927.
Autograph picture postcard signed by Felix Berber to Adolph Brodsky
Description: A picture postcard of Lichtental bei Baden-Baden. Berber is writing as he sits in the rain. Berber has not been very well for the last 6 days but must recover for his engagements. On the 20th he will be travelling to Munich via Kissinger where he will play Beethoven on the 23rd. It is postmarked 14 Jun 1927.
A letter written by a child [possibly niece or nephew of Adolph Brodsky] to Adolph
Description: This appears to have been written in a child's best handwriting, and looks like a whimsical poem to amuse Uncle Adolph, entitled Aff oder Mensch.
Handwritten letter signed by Adel to Adolph Brodsky
Description: This letter has been written in one hand and signed in another. The letter was probably written in Vienna not long after the end of the Great War. Adel addresses Brodsky in the familiar form Du. Adel thanks Brodsky for his gift of one pound sterling which has brought him Christmas joy. Adel hopes that he may perhaps meet Benies [sic].
Autograph letter signed from Karl Wahle to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Karl Wahle writes a letter to Brodsky in which he asks for food and clothes. As a result of being chilled when working in unheated rooms during the war Karl has been ill for 2.5 years and can only move with the aid of crutches. He is 63 years old, was born in Vienna, responsible until his illness and employed as a factory official. They are living in terrible conditions. The winter is dreadful and claiming lives. The letter is dated 28 Jan 1921. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Description: The letter is not divided into paragraphs. It is written in German hand with very occasional words in Roman letters. This letter to Anna Brodsky is written by a woman who has never met Anna although they do have friends in common. The poor woman has had terrible health and financial problems and unloads her heart to Anna. We may well doubt whether Anna ever read the letter since the writer requests that it should be burned after being read. A wealthy "Onkel" has helped with medical expenses but has not supplied her with clothes. Though poor himself, Dlabac has helped greatly. Benis, Ernst Hacker and Frau Rothe also feature in this script. The letter appears to be lacking the concluding pages and thus we cannot identify the writer. We can only surmise that she was living in Vienna and writing just after the Great War. Not found, 10 Apr 2006
Autograph letter card signed from Hans Richter to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1902
Description: Giovanni Guidice, alias Richter, asks Maestro Brodsky what piece he will play in addition to the concerto by Sinding. This missive is addressed to Serenissimo Sordido Presto. The card is postmarked 4 Mar 1902.
Autograph letter signed from Christopher Rawdon Briggs to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Briggs, Christopher Rawdon (1869-1948), violinist
Dates: 1919
Description: Rawdon Briggs has a cold which makes him much deafer than usual: a few days ago very high sounds were all but inaudible even with the Acousticon. Rawdon Briggs suggests that Brodsky should try to get a deputy [Bridge, Briggs's wife or Miss Robinson] for December 4th and in Norbreck on the 7th. In a P.S. Briggs adds that Brodsky ought to have accepted his resignation long ago. The letter is dated 21 Nov 1919.
Autograph letter signed from Pauline W. Elsner to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Pauline Elsner is looking forward to the return of Brodsky, Speelman and Hatton to perform in Dublin, thanks to Mr. Geoghegan. Elsner asks for Brodsky's help in selling old editions of the Beethoven, Haydn and Mozart quartets which belonged to her grandfather. There is also a big collection of valuable cello music: her father was a pupil of Romberg and his own father. She hopes that Brodsky may find a collector and expresses appreciation of Brodsky's kindness to fellow artistes. The letter is dated 4 Apr 1919.
Autograph letter signed from A.E. Voorsanger to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Voorsanger writes to be excused from his lesson this morning as he is giving his third recital at noon and would like a final rehearsal this morning to leave nothing to chance.
Autograph letter signed from Maud Hallé to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Maud Hallé writes to congratulate Brodsky on the beautiful performance of the students on the previous evening. She believes that one of the greatest things her father ever did for Manchester was bringing Brodsky and wishes her father could have been there to hear to what a pitch of excellence Brodsky has brought the College. The letter is dated 16 Mar 1910.
Autograph letter signed from Novello & Co. Ltd. to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Novello & Co. Ltd (1811-present), music publishers
Dates: 1913
Description: Brodsky has written to Novello, Elgar's publisher, about the full score and band parts of Elgar's Violin Concerto. Novello is quite willing for Brodsky to forward them to Vienna for his performance there. The letter is dated 9 Dec 1913.
Autograph postcard signed from F. Archer to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Archer writes most appreciatively of the concert on the previous day which happened to be his birthday. He does not expect another such treat on future February 24th. The letter is dated 25 Feb 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Ashworth Barnes to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Barnes, Ashworth (fl.1900s), Accrington Chamber Concerts member
Dates: 1909
Description: Ashworth Barnes is writing on behalf of the Accrington Chamber Concerts. For the first concert on 12 November, he would like to have a quartet from the College: Mr. Alfred Barker, Miss Kontorovitch, Miss Dorothy Haworth and Mr. Seth Lancaster. On the same evening it is proposed to have Charles Kelly and Norman Allin with Alwyne Bowne as accompanist. In a postscript, Barnes mentions that they would like to have had Toni Maaskoff but the expense of the fare to and from London and the difficulty of rehearsal are in the way. The letter is dated 27 Sep 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Frank Merrick to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Merrick, Frank (1886-1981), Pianist, teacher and composer
Dates: 1919
Description: Mr. Withers has asked if Frank Merrick will continue with the present arrangement regarding rooms until the next Council meeting. Merrick is willing, but would like henceforth to have no.12 for 2 whole days per week - either Tuesday and Friday or Monday and Thursday. The letter is dated 25 May 1919.
Autograph letter signed from Leopold Kramer to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Kramer, Leopold (fl.1910s), concertmaster
Dates: 1919
Description: Kramer recalls meeting the Brodskys in Raabs near Waidhofen an der Thaya years ago. Kramer is now concertmeister of the opera [Stadttheater] in Hamburg, which is not particularly pleasing to him. He now writes begging Brodsky to place him in his school and in his quartet. He belongs to the Czechoslovak Republic and does not think there will be any political difficulties. The letter is dated 14 Oct 1919.
Autograph letter signed from Sydney Rosenbloom to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Rosenbloom has heard from Anton Maaskoff that Brodsky will play his sonata in Liverpool on 16th December and Rosenbloom looks forward to playing it with him. Rosenbloom will return the manuscript in a few days and probably let him have a proof copy of the work in a few weeks. The letter is dated 25 Oct 1911.
Description: A note to Anna Brodsky saying "Chicago Limited going East. Drink your health in champagne'. It is signed by a Brodsky, but the first two names are unclear.
Description: An appeal to Adolph Brodsky to send money to aid the Newspaper Press Fund, and to attend the Sixty Fourth Annual Dinner at the Savoy Hotel. There are two copies of this letter.
Autograph letter signed from Walter William Cobbett to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Cobbett, Walter William (1847-1937), businessman, violinist, author
Dates: 1923
Description: Cobbett is updating his articles in Grove's Dictionary for the new edition and asks Brodsky for particulars of his career over the last 17 years: names of his most successful pupils, personnel of his quartet, with any notable appearances, such as the Grieg Memorial Concert in London. Cobbett recalls meeting Brodsky at the late Frederick Smith's and calling at the Brodskys'. The letter is dated 12 Aug 1923.
Autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Mrs. Crawshaw
Description: On his return from holiday, Brodsky has received a letter from Mrs. Crawshaw to the effect that her daughter [Jane, later Jennie, Crawshaw] will either leave the college altogether or be transferred to Mr. Backhaus. The letter is dated 1 Oct 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Isaacs to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Isaacs, Edward (1881-1953), Pianist, Composer
Dates: 1924
Description: Isaacs writes to Brodsky that he has taken his advice and applied for the vacant professorship at College enclosing a certificate from his oculist to the effect that he is able to take up his work, including teaching. The letter is dated 14 Jul 1924.
Autograph letter signed from Alfred Barker to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Brodsky's affectionate pupil Alfi writes to express regret about the previous day's incident involving the quartet and Mrs. Briggs who was very rude to Alfi. He fears that he is a bother to the quartet much though he enjoys playing in it and will understand if Brodsky would rather have another second violin. The letter is dated 26 Nov 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Anton Hegner to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Hegner sends a letter to Brodsky with his string quartet, op. 13, which has just been published by Breitkopf & Härtel in Leipzig. Hegner would like Brodsky to take an interest in it and possibly play it at a public concert in the near future. The letter is dated 14 Jan 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Winifred Hallé to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: Winifred Hallé writes to send the Brodskys her best wishes for Christmas and the New Year and thanks for "Christmas Eve in Dear Old Russia" [a short work in prose by Anna Brodsky]. She will be leaving the south on the 28th for a fortnight and will ring the Brodskys. Mr. Holme has sent a copy of the Annual Report and Winifred was delighted to read the preface about her father [Charles Hallé]. The letter is dated 21 Dec 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Walter Hatton to Adolph Brodsky
Description: On the official headed paper of the Brodsky Quartet, which at that time, comprised Dr. Adolph Brodsky, John S. Bridge, Frank S. Park and Walter Hatton. Hatton has received a letter from Miss Garnett who has altered the date of the first Windermere concert and would like a sketch programme of the three concerts. Hatton will send them on to her once he receives them from Brodsky. Hatton has heard from Mrs. Speelman who does not know that Mr. Speelman ever had an address book. All their things are stored away but if she finds anything, she will send it on. The letter is dated 18 May 1920.
Autograph letter signed from Laurence Atkinson to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Atkinson wonders if Brodsky remembers him: they used to sing and play together. For many years he has been teaching the Italian method of voice production and German, French, Italian, Russian and English classic songs. He has always intended to return to his native city Manchester. He would like to come to Manchester every week and if Brodsky could find him 10 pupils, he would come regularly. His fees would be 11 guineas for a course of lessons. Atkinson signs himself Principal of the Battistine Vocal Academy. The letter is dated 10 Jan 1924.
Autograph letter signed from Gustav C. Eckhard to Anna Brodsky
Description: Twelvetrees informs Brodsky that he has just accepted the position of principal 'cello in the Hallé Orchestra next season and, as these concerts will hardly provide a living, he asks Brodsky's advice about finding pupils. He has had 15 years' teaching experience at the RIAM Dublin and wonders if the College of Music has any need of another 'Cello Professor at present. Twelvetrees has decided to give up the Halls and to return to the more civilised life of teaching and concert work. The letter is dated 4 Aug 1921.
Autograph letter signed from W.S. Meadmore to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Meadmore thanks Brodsky for his book and photograph. He will let Brodsky have news of the articles as soon as they are published. The letter is dated 27 Mar.
Autograph letter signed from Harry Mortimer to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Mortimer, Harry (fl.1910s-1940), Clarinettist
Dates: 1913
Description: Harry Mortimer (clarinettist) believes there is a vacancy in the Hallé orchestra, owing to Mr. Brough going to the Scottish Orchestra. Mortimer should like to obtain the post, particularly as he has waited a long time. Mortimer is also writing to Mr. Holme. The letter is dated 20 Jun 1913.
Autograph letter signed from W.A. Cheetham to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Cheetham has been consulted by James N. Cheetham of Jackson Street, Stretford, about serious injuries sustained on Sunday afternoon near Knutsford when he was run down by Brodsky's motor car. Mr Cheetham was cycling at a necessarily moderate pace with his wife in a trailer behind him. He had successfully negotiated a turn, when Brodsky appeared in the opposite direction on the wrong side of the road. Mr Cheetham was dashed to the ground and his bicycle damaged. Brodsky fetched a surgeon to the spot. Mr Cheetham has since been attended by his own doctor who certifies that he has a broken rib, a scalp wound and shock to the system. He has to remain in bed. Mr Cheetham wonders what compensation Brodsky is willing to make for the damage and consequent loss sustained at his hands. The letter is dated 6 Sep 1904.
Autograph postcard signed from S. Warburn to Hans Richter
Description: The illustration on the postcard is of the Vatican Gardens and the cupola of St. Peter's. Warburn and her daughter send their love. Ezekiel is still in America. Warburn will give a concert on the 25th. The postcard is postmarked 2 Apr 1902.
Autograph postcard signed from Simon Speelman to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Speelman gives Brodsky a list of dates settled for their Manchester concerts and a couple of provisional dates for Dublin for the winter season 1908-09. The card is postmarked 26 May 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Simon Speelman to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Speelman gives Brodsky a provisional date, 3 November, for a Dublin concert. The Dublin Society has asked Speelman to quote terms for a recital by Esposito, Brodsky, Hatton and himself. Speelman has asked the Society to deal with Esposito and quoted 35 guineas inclusive for the three. Speelman requests a reply by return. Speelman asks Brodsky for the parts of the Elgar quartet and the score if he has one. The letter is dated 7 Jul 1919.
Autograph letter signed from Simon Speelman to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Speelman writes to Brodsky about clashes with concert dates in Bury, Liverpool and Belfast. Speelman finishes in Blackpool on the 23rd of September but will go immediately to Utrecht to see a specialist about his hand. The letter is dated 26 Aug.
Autograph letter signed from Simon Speelman to Carl Fuchs
Description: Speelman writes to Fuchs of the suggestion made by a man at the beginning of the season that the quartet should appear at some music halls. At first Speelman believed that this was a joke but the man has written to him [Speelman encloses the letters for Fuchs and instructs him to keep them] and if the audience likes them, they will have 6 or 8 weeks of engagements. Speelman asks Fuchs to discuss the matter with Brodsky and Briggs and to write to him at the Hotel Palais Royal Amsterdam so that he receives the letter on Wednesday 27th. The letter is dated 21 Sep.
Autograph letter signed from Simon Speelman to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Speelman regrets missing Brodsky but hopes he may have some viola teaching for him. The Geoghegans send greetings to the Brodskys. Speelman asks when they will rehearse for Ancoats. The letter is dated 6 Nov.
Autograph letter signed to Adolph Brodsky from Ada Speelman
Description: Ada Speelman writes to Brodsky in sorrow and gratitude for his help (Simon died in 1920). She is displeased with Forsyth and the Pier Company. Simon had also been hurt after his wife had written to Mr. Forsyth to say that he was too ill to fulfil his Hallé engagements but received no reply. Ada feels that Simon has been unappreciated during his 50 years in Manchester. Ada appreciates Brodsky's and Mr. Hatton's offer to settle with Forsyth but she would rather deal with it herself. The letter is dated 29 Jun.
Autograph letter signed from Granville Hill to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Granville Hill apologises for the delay in replying to Brodsky's letter. He will look in at the College on Friday morning at 11 to run through the Mendelssohn or any other pieces Brodsky has selected for next Sunday's concert. The letter is dated 25 Oct 1920.
Autograph letter signed from Granville Hill to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Granville Hill writes a letter of apology and explanation to cancel his engagement with the Brodskys on Saturday. Leeds College of Music sent a telegram asking him to lecture to the students on Saturday in place of a man who had to go to London. The fee is good and the Leeds people have helped him with concert work in that town. He concludes by repeating his apologies and regrets. The letter is dated 1 Jul 1926.
Autograph letter signed from Mary McCullagh to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Mr. Fuchs has invited Mary McCullagh to join in the Mendelssohn Octet on 9th January. She is greatly honoured and expresses her appreciation to Brodsky. The letter is dated 12 Nov 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Mary McCullagh to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Mary invites Brodsky to attend a concert given by Mary and others; his support would be much appreciated. The letter is dated 29 May 1921.
Autograph letter signed from Mary McCullagh to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Mary thanks Brodsky for attending their recent concert in Manchester, and apologetically asks for further help. The letter is dated 16 July 1921.
Autograph letter signed from Mary McCullagh to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Behrens thanks Brodsky for his letter and appears to be upset by what has been published about himself in newspapers. He regrets that one can do nothing to escape, but one ought to have the opportunity, before publishing, of protesting. The letter is dated 9 May 1928.
Autograph letter signed from F. Bonaris to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Borwick writes of Richard Muhlfeld's plans to visit England in January. The letter is dated 19 Dec. Muhlfeld signed the RMCM Visitors' Book on 18 Jan 1900; it thus appears this letter was written in Dec 1899.
Autograph letter signed from Arthur Catterall to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Catterall writes to congratulate him on his fine performance, which Catterall has just heard on the radio. The letter is dated 27 Jun 1927.
Autograph letter signed from Rosa Newmarch to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Newmarch, Rosa (1857-1940) writer on music
Dates: 1905
Description: Rosa returns the autograph letters of Tchaikovsky to the Brodskys with thanks; the book is due to be published shortly. The letter is dated 26 Oct 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Henry Joseph Wood to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Hopkinson, Alfred (1851-1939) lawyer, politician, Vice-Chancellor of the Victoria University
Dates: 1902
Description: The Vice-Chancellor of the Victoria University, Manchester, writes to ask whether Brodsky can attend a ceremony in March to receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Music. The letter is dated 31 Jan 1902.
Resolution of the Council of the Victoria University, Manchester
Creator: Victoria University of Manchester (1851-2004)
Dates: 1902
Description: This resolution recommends that the Court confers the degree of Doctor of Music, honoris causa, upon Mr. Adolph Brodsky, contingent on his being present at the Degree Ceremony to be held on March 13th 1902. It is dated 30 Jan 1902.
Autograph letter signed from F.E. Weiss to whom it may concern
Creator: Weiss, F.E. (fl.1890s-1930s), Professor of Botany and Vice-Chancellor at Victoria University, Chair of Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1915
Description: Weiss writes in his capacity as Vice-Chancellor of the University and Chairman of the Royal [Manchester] College of Music to achieve the release of Brodsky, being held as a non-combatant prisoner of war in Austria. Weiss certifies that Brodsky is a lecturer in music at the University and Principal of the RMCM. The letter is dated 7 Apr 1915.
Autograph letter signed from F.E. Weiss to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Weiss, F.E. (fl.1890s-1930s), Professor of Botany and Vice-Chancellor at Victoria University, Chair of Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1915
Description: Gustav Behrens has passed on Brodsky's letter to Weiss who now writes to Brodsky enclosing a statement which may speed up the Brodskys' return to England. The letter is dated 7 Apr 1915.
Autograph letter signed from Henry A. Miers to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Miers, Henry Alexander (1858-1942) mineralogist, Professor of Crystallography and Vice-Chancellor at Victoria University
Dates: 1921
Description: Miers informs Brodsky that he (Brodsky) will be receiving an invitation to the meeting in the Whitworth Hall and evening Conversazione on Founder's Day, March 12th. The letter is dated 24 Feb 1921.
Typescript letter signed from Lawrence Haward to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Haward, Lawrence Warrington (1878-1957), art collector, director of Manchester Art Gallery
Dates: 1916
Description: Haward was curator of the City of Manchester Art Gallery. He is anxious that Brodsky's students are made more aware of the Gallery, and encloses an exhibition leaflet. The letter is dated 30 Nov 1916.
Autograph letter signed from Granville Bantock to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Bantock sends Brodsky a copy of the Constitution of a Musical League on the lines of a German Tonkunstler Verein and hopes that Brodsky will consent to join the Committee. Elgar is the Chairman. Richter, Henry Wood, Delius and others are on the present committee. The letter is dated 2 Jan 1908.
Typescript letter signed from Landon Ronald to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Letter, dated 10 Mar 1923, from the Home Office confirming that Brodsky's Certificate of Naturalization and Oath of Allegiance have been registered at the Office.
Autograph letter from the Russian Vice Consul to All Whomever It May Concern, re Brodsky's naturalization.
Creator: Oldham, Edith (1865-1950), Royal College of Music student, secretary of Feis Ceiol
Dates: 1903
Description: The Festival secretaries write to invite Brodsky to adjudicate in the stringed instrument and chamber music competitions to be held at the next Feis Ceiol (Competitive Music Festival), Dublin. The letter is dated 10 Oct 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Edith Oldham to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Oldham, Edith (1865-1950), Royal College of Music student, secretary of Feis Ceiol
Dates: 1903
Description: The Festival secretary fears that Brodsky has not received the letter written earlier [see AB/463L], to invite Brodsky to adjudicate in the solo strings and chamber music competitions to be held at the next Feis Ceiol (Competitive Music Festival). The letter is dated 27 Oct 1903.
Autograph letter signed from WP Geoghegan to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Geoghegan, William Purser (fl.1880s-1920s), master brewer with Guinness
Dates: 1920
Description: Geoghegan writes to thank Brodsky for his letter. He mentions that they have not been affected personally by the Irish troubles. The letter is dated 26 Aug 1920.
Autograph letter signed from F Geoghegan to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Geoghegan sends birthday greetings to Adolph (whose birthday is on the 19 Mar). She also hopes that Anna is feeling better. Dated 19 Mar 1923.
Autograph letter signed from WP Geoghegan to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Geoghegan, William Purser (fl.1880s-1920s), master brewer with Guinness
Dates: 1927
Description: Geoghegan thanks Brodsky for his kind letter and his wife's sketches which they have read with pleasure. The Geoghegans send their best wishes for Christmas and for 1928. The letter is dated 19 Dec 1927.
Autograph letter signed from the Geoghegans to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Geoghegan, William Purser (fl.1880s-1920s), master brewer with Guinness; Geoghegan, Mary E (fl.1920s)
Dates: 1928
Description: The letter has also been signed by M.E. Geoghegan. The Geoghegans thank the Brodskys for their Christmas wishes and for the little Russian booklet. They wish they could hope to live to see friendship between nations. The letter is dated 19 Dec 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Hamilton Harty to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Harty, Herbert Hamilton (1879-1941), Knight, composer, conductor, pianist
Dates: 1923
Description: Harty thanks Anna Brodsky for her charming little stories and sends warm wishes to the Brodskys for the New Year. The letter is dated 31 Dec 1923.
Autograph letter signed from Hamilton Harty to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Harty, Herbert Hamilton (1879-1941), Knight, composer, conductor, pianist
Dates: 1926
Description: Harty writes to Brodsky that Elgar is delighted that Brodsky will play his Violin Concerto on the occasion of his visit to Manchester on 20th January [1927]. The committee members are also very grateful for Brodsky's help. The letter is dated 18 Sep 1926.
Autograph letter signed from Hamilton Harty to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Harty, Herbert Hamilton (1879-1941), Knight, composer, conductor, pianist
Dates: 21-Jan-28
Description: Harty hopes that Madame Brodsky was not too tired after her experiences on Thursday evening. Harty was greatly impressed by the beauty of the "Pathetic". The letter is dated 21 Jan 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Hamilton Harty to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Harty, Herbert Hamilton (1879-1941), Knight, composer, conductor, pianist
Dates: 1928
Description: Harty writes to Brodsky that his pupil, Hecht, played for him today. Harty will give him the first vacancy. The letter is dated 25 Apr 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Hamilton Harty to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Harty, Herbert Hamilton (1879-1941), Knight, composer, conductor, pianist
Dates: 1929
Description: Harty writes a letter of condolence to Mrs. Brodsky after the death of Brodsky. He pays tribute not only to his musical genius developed to the full, but also to his beautiful cheerful gay personality which meant so much to all who knew him. The letter is dated 30 Jan 1929.
Autograph letter signed from Hamilton Harty to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Harty, Herbert Hamilton (1879-1941), Knight, composer, conductor, pianist
Dates: 1929
Description: Harty has delayed in writing to thank Anna Brodsky for her kind letter because of travelling and conducting. He is glad to observe from her firm and clear handwriting that she is in fair health. He is delighted to receive the two photographs of Brodsky which are being framed and will long hang near him on his walls. The letter is dated 18 Mar 1929.
Typescript letter signed from J Aikman Forsyth to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Forsyth, James Aikmen (fl.1890s-1910s), Director of Forsyth's Music Shop, Honerary Secretary of the Hallé Concerts Society
Dates: 1908
Description: Forsyth informs Brodsky that he has persuaded Mr Watkinson to increase his fee for 2 Feb 1909 to 15 guineas. Forsyth would be glad if Brodsky would book the date. The letter is dated 15 Jun 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Olive E. Baguley to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Baguley, Olive E. (fl.1920s), secretary of the Hallé Concerts Society
Dates: 1923
Description: Olive Baguley was secretary of the Hallé Concerts Society. She has been requested by Mr Harty to confirm the engagement of the Brodsky Quartet to appear in his series of Chamber Concerts on Monday, 1 October 1923, at a fee of twenty guineas. The letter is dated 14 Jul 1923.
Description: Letter of condolence to Anna Brodsky following the death of Adolph. It is signed by the Chairman, EW Gromme, Gustav Behrens, LSR Abbott, Alfred Lomas, Philip M Oliver and the conductor, Hamilton Harty. The letter is dated 8 Feb 1929.
Autograph letter signed from W. Towle to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Towle, William (1848-1929), Knight, hotel manager
Dates: 1903
Description: This is a confirmation in writing of a verbal agreement at an interview a few days ago. Brodsky is hiring the Gentlemen's Concert Hall for six concerts during the 1903-4 season at a rental of 25 guineas per evening. The letter covers the conditions of the contract in great detail. The letter is dated 20 Jul 1903.
Typescript letter signed from V. Trempi to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Baguley, Olive E. (fl.1920s), secretary of the Hallé Concerts Society
Dates: 1926
Description: Baguley writes to Adolph Brodsky in her capacity as Secretary of the Hallé Concerts Society. This is a covering letter returning some letters and photographs which Brodksy had lent to the Society. The letter is dated 26 Oct 1926.
Autograph letter signed from Adolphus W Ward to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Ward, Adolphus William (1837-1924), historian
Dates: 1895
Description: Ward formally invites Brodsky to accept the Principal Professorship of the Violin in the College on the conditions mentioned in the enclosed papers. The letter is dated 25 Jan 1895.
Autograph extract from the minutes of Council from Stanley Withers to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Withers, Stanley (fl.1890s-1928), Registrar of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1895
Description: Stanley Withers copies the extract from the minutes of Council for Brodsky. Resolved: that Mr. Adolph Brodsky be offered the appointment of Principal Professor of the Violin and Conductor of the College Orchestra from September 20th next on the following terms: the salary to be 500 pounds a year for 15 hours' tuition per week and the appointment to be made for one year but renewable. Dated 25 Jan 1895.
Printed and autograph letter signed from Stanley Withers to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Withers, Stanley (fl.1890s-1928), Registrar of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1895
Description: This a printed standard letter of appointment with additions made by hand. Stanley Withers was the College Registrar. The letter is dated 25 Jan 1895.
Autograph letter from Charles Hallé to Adolph Brodsky, with accompanying envelope
Creator: Hallé, Charles (1819-1895), Knight; pianist, conductor, founder of Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1894
Description: Hallé introduces himself to Brodsky, mentions that Willy Hess must leave England because of ill-health and offers Brodsky three vacant posts: Principal Teacher [Violin] at the RMCM, including direction of the ensemble and orchestral class amounting to 15 hours per week for 36 weeks of the year at an annual salary of 10,000 Marks; Leadership of Hallé's own orchestra for at least 30 concerts in the winter season [October to April] with additional payment of 100 Marks per concert should 30 be exceeded; Leadership of the Philharmonic Society in Liverpool at a salary of about 1850 Marks for 12 concerts in the winter season. In addition private lessons could be given at the rate of 21 Marks per lesson. This is what Manchester can offer Brodsky with effect from next Easter. Hallé would like Brodsky to reply quickly so that he may propose the successor to Mr. Hess to the Directors of the College. In a postscript Hallé requests that he should address his reply to Greenhays, Manchester. The letter is dated 31 Dec 1894.
Autograph letter signed from Charles Hallé to Adolph Brodsky, with accompanying envelope
Creator: Hallé, Charles (1819-1895), Knight; pianist, conductor, founder of Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1895
Description: Hallé is delighted to hear that Brodsky will accept the post in Manchester and will do his utmost to make the post agreeable to him. The Directors of the College meet on the 23rd of January and after this Brodsky will receive official confirmation on the terms stated by Hallé. Hallé will settle the matter with the Liverpool Philharmonic next week. The appointment of Leader there is Hallé's privilege but Brodsky will hear officially. The salary for 12 concerts amounts to 95 pounds. For the Hallé concerts the salary is 150 pounds for 30 concerts and 5 pounds for each additional concert. Hallé will give Brodsky any information and facilitate his journey to this country. The letter is dated 14 Jan 1895.
Autograph letter signed from Charles Hallé to Adolph Brodsky, with accompanying envelope
Creator: Hallé, Charles (1819-1895), Knight; pianist, conductor, founder of Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1895
Description: Charles Hallé supposes that Brodsky's journey through Russia is nearing its end and hopes that Brodsky has not forgotten them in Manchester. Hallé reminds Brodsky that he promised to pay them a visit which would be welcome with timely notice any time up to 7 July. Hallé also asks for biographical details for himself as well as for the local press. The letter is dated 21 Apr 1895.
Autograph letter signed from Helen S Schuster to Olga Skadowsky, with accompanying envelope
Description: Gertrude's sister sends something with thanks. Gertrude enjoyed the previous evening's concert very much and they have nearly finished the Bolshevists. Dated 13 Dec.
Description: This letter is from a pupil of Olga Skadowsky. Geegee regrets that she has not paid for some Russian reading sessions she had some months ago. She was suddenly called away to Droitwich because of a friend having an operation. Anna has also been teaching her but she wants to read Russian. They are reading "Our Mutual Friend" with great enjoyment.
Brahms, Concerto for violin with pianoforte accompaniment, op. 77
Creator: Forster, Kathleen (fl.1900s-1950s), violinist, teacher at the Northern School of Music
Dates: undated
Description: On the cover of this music is written Kathleen Forster who was a pupil of Adolph Brodsky. The fingering and bowing on this part may have been pencilled in by Brodsky. The price of this music was ten shillings.
Creator: Hall, H Marion (fl.1900s-1910s), violinist
Dates: c1910
Description: This music which belonged to H. Marion Hall was passed to the College by Kathleen Forster. The music was purchased from W.H. Priestley & Sons, Colmore Row, Birmingham at the price of three shillings net. H. Marion Hall may have been a private pupil of Brodsky in which case the markings on the violin part may have been made by Brodsky.
Mendelssohn, Concerto for violin and orchestra, Op. 64 in E minor
Creator: Forster, Kathleen (fl.1900s-1950s), violinist, teacher at the Northern School of Music
Dates: 1915
Description: This music belonged to Kathleen Forster who was a pupil of Brodsky. She has covered the music in the brown paper which Augener used to send the parcel to Kathleen's mother. The markings on the violin part may have been made by Brodsky.
Rode, Violin concerto no.7 in A minor; Piano accompaniment arranged by Friedrich Hermann
Creator: Hall, H Marion (fl.1900s-1910s), violinist
Dates: c1906
Description: Composition by Pierre Rode. This music belonging to Marion Hall was given to Kathleen Forster who later passed it on with her own music to the College.
Tchaikovsky, Concerto for violin, Op. 35, with pianoforte accompaniment
Creator: Forster, Kathleen (fl.1900s-1950s), violinist, teacher at the Northern School of Music
Dates: undated
Description: This music belonged to Kathleen Forster of Pendleton, who at the age of 16 entered the Royal Manchester College of Music in October 1919. As Kathleen Forster was a pupil of Brodsky, the fingering and bowing on the violin part may have been added by Brodsky.
Creator: Hall, H Marion (fl.1900s-1910s), violinist
Dates: undated
Description: Composition by Henri Wieniawski. This music belonged to H. Marion Hall. The few markings may have been added to the violin part by Brodsky (if Marion Hall was one of Brodsky's private pupils).
Scott, The gentle maiden: Irish air for the violin and piano
Creator: Hall, H Marion (fl.1900s-1910s), violinist
Dates: 1910
Description: This music belonged to Marion Hall and came to the College through Kathleen Forster. Marion has written her name and the date February 1911 on the front cover.
Creator: Worsley, Alfred (fl.1910s-fl.1920s), composer
Dates: c1910
Description: Amusing poem about Tommy Poulter, a member of the committe of the RMCM. At the top of the page Alfred Worsley has written "Lines suggested as a remembrance of a RMCM Club Committee Meeting at 3 Laurel Mount, Bowdon. 29 April 1910 by the Hon. Secy."
Autograph text of the Annual Report of the RMCM by Adolph Brodsky
Description: In this report Brodsky announces a successful year and mentions notable events of the year e.g. Mozart's "Figaro" performed by the Opera and Orchestra Class. Many students are having great success on the concert platform. Several have joined the Hallé and Dr. Richter is highly satisfied with them.
Autograph Annual Report of the RMCM by Adolph Brodsky
Description: In this report Brodsky pays tribute to the teaching staff and the Registrar who have all done more than their duty. Brodsky writes philosophically about the art of music. He thanks the Principal of Owens College for establishing links between the 2 colleges. Dr. Pyne, Dr. Watson and Brodsky himself have been appointed lecturers at Owens College. A former student, Miss Wormald, has been appointed as singing teacher at the College. Miss Anna Hallé, sister of the former Principal, has been appointed teacher in German as the singing students did not have good German pronunciation. Brodsky concludes with mention of the Sustentation Fund, to thank the old friends of the fund, the Misses Gaskell, Mrs. Briggs, Miss Warburg and others. Mrs. John Webster's gift of 700 pounds will enable the College to have a scholarship or exhibition of 20 pounds a year for the violin, or the 'cello.
Description: Brodsky mentions matters such as the relationship between RMCM and Owens College; he does not think they will have any sort of Jubilee to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of RMCM; and discusses the various success stories for the College of the past year.
Description: This report appears incomplete. Brodsky pays tribute to the piano teacher Dayas who died the previous spring. Dayas taught at the college for 7 years until his untimely death at the age of 39. Brodsky has had difficulty in replacing Dayas but has now found Mr. Arthur Friedheim who like Dayas was also a pupil of Liszt and had been mentioned by Dayas to his pupils. Brodsky has made another new appointment: Thomas Poulter, who gained the Teachers' Diploma with distinction has been appointed violin teacher. Brodsky is delighted at the increasing number of their students in the Hallé Orchestra.
Description: Miss Anna Hallé who has conducted the German class for the last 2 years has resigned on the advice of her doctor. Brodsky mentions the new members of staff: Miss Fillunger the internationally known singer; Mr. Backhaus has been appointed head of Piano; Dr. Carroll has succeeded Dr. Hiles. He goes on to discuss the Sustentation Fund.
Autograph notes for a speech about the formation of a music club for former students
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: undated
Description: Notes and suggestions for the formation of a club for former students of the College. The aim of the Club would be to encourage and support musicians who miss College life. The members would be able to perform to each other and form a sympathetic audience for their compositions. If they are willing to work for this club, Anna Brodsky will help to organise it as best she can. Some notes have been added in Russian.
Autograph account of the meeting to form the RMCM Club
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: c1907
Description: This report describes the foundation of the RMCM Club at a meeting at the Brodskys' home on 22 February 1907. The purpose of the Club was to support advanced and former students in their quest for work, to encourage new compositions, to aim for perfection in performance and to cultivate good fellowship. The club will meet once a month and arrange concerts.
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: c1908
Description: In this address the President of the Club, Anna Brodsky, reports that the number of members has now increased to 89. Compositions of the members Mr. Isaacs and Mr. Leo Smith have been performed. Dr. Keighley has given a very interesting lecture. The Committee sometimes invited artists to play: Alexander Siloti was the first to give a recital. One of their patrons, Dr. Brodsky will give a violin recital at the opening meeting on 12 October. Mr. Millar has resigned as honorary secretary but has been persuaded to stand for re-election. Mr. Isaacs has assisted when Mr. Millar was unable to carry out his duties because of his professional work. The concluding pages of this speech are missing.
List of persons present at a meeting held on 21 Feb 1907
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: c1917
Description: This is a speech of confidence in the RMCM Club, which has now completed its 11th year despite the Great War. Anna Brodsky believes that no one can stand alone and that union is strength. She places her hope in the League of Nations which will make war impossible. Anna Brodsky believes that the Club will keep former students of the College united.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: undated
Description: These notes are in both English and Russian. These notes may be Anna Brodsky's agenda for an annual meeting of the RMCM Club in its early years. Anna lists where the distant members live, the furthest away being in Calcutta, Natal, Capetown and New York. The rest live in England: many in Manchester, with some in London. 22 members have performed at meetings of the Club and the finances are in a satisfactory condition.
List of members and addresses of members of the RMCM Club who live outside Manchester
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: undated
Description: This list contains 37 members. Many of these "out of Manchester" members live fairly locally, but 2 are in South Africa, one is in India and one is in New York.
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: undated
Description: This list of prizes was probably for an RMCM Club event. The list includes gong, clock, 2 jewel caskets, one from Mrs Brodsky, boxes of cigarettes, boxes of chocolates, postcard album, matchbox holder, hatpin stand, Omar Khayam, Emerson Treasury, silk handkerchief, and others.
Autograph list of names connected with the RMCM Club
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: undated
Description: This list of both men and women may be connected with the RMCM Club. After 2 of the names is written "solo' which suggests that it may be a list of potential performers.
Description: This is a note on the international nature of the Brodsky Quartet: a Russian, an Englishman, a Dutchman and a German. The writer suggests that the great powers of Europe could take an example from the Brodsky Quartet and form a quartet among themselves.
Programme of a concert given at Bowdon Literary and Scientific Club
Description: The title given to this programme is Evolution of the Cremona Violin. Dr. Brodsky demonstrates a Maggini viola dated 1620, a Stainer violin dated 1671, and an Amati, dated 1682. The concert was held on 1 Oct 1906.
Notes about playing the violin, and on teaching pupils how to play
Creator: Johnstone, Arthur (1861-1904) music critic at The Manchester Guardian
Dates: c1896
Description: Arthur Johnstone [1861-1904] was music critic of The Manchester Guardian 1896 until his death in 1904. These notes are made from Meyers' Conversations Lexicon, edition of 1894 and cover Brodsky's life from birth in Taganrog on 21 March 1851, his musical training with Hellmesberger in Vienna, his teaching at the Moscow Conservatoire and in Leipzig right up to his stay of 3 winters in New York starting in 1891.
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: undated
Description: In these incomplete notes Anna mentions the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto which was premiered by Brodsky in Vienna in 1881. She mentions his 8 years of work in Leipzig and his 3 years in America. She adds his return to Europe and the offer from Sir Charles Hallé upon whose death Brodsky became Principal of the RMCM. Brodsky also founded a Brodsky Quartet in Manchester and it gives a series of concerts in aid of the Sustentation Fund which helps students without a means to gain higher education in music.
Autograph text of a speech given to the Debating Society
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: undated
Description: After a preamble about Mrs. Brodsky's promise that Dr Brodsky would speak to the Debating Society, Brodsky admits that he would much rather play the works of composers than speak about them. Brodsky decided to speak on how to teach the violin, a subject of which he has good knowledge and about 30 years' experience. His final choice of title was "my experiences as a teacher".
Autograph notes to introduce Charles Rowley to the Students' Association
Description: Nina Grieg has listed Grieg's songs under their German titles: Mit einer Primulaveris; Dich liebe ich; Zwei braune Augen; Du mein Gedank, Du mein Sein und Werden; Weihnachts Wiegenlied; Waldwanderung. On one piece of paper is written in Anna Brodsky's hand, "Good luck with your project. Our hearts beat in time with yours.'
Autograph extract from a speech given by Anna Brodsky at the RMCM Club
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: 1912
Description: Extract from Anna Brodsky's remarks at the opening meeting of the season 1912-13 of the RMCM Club on 21 Oct 1912. These words form a very warm welcome to Madame Grieg who is visiting the Club for a second time. The full speech is to be found in AB/541.
Autograph extract of a speech given by Anna Brodsky at the RMCM Club
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: 1912
Description: Anna Brodsky writes very enthusiastically about the opening meeting of the 1912-13 season of the RMCM Club on 21 Oct. Nina Grieg was present at the event. After refreshments Anna Brodsky made a speech of welcome to Nina Grieg, then a short musical programme was played
Autograph copy of an Account of the first evening of the RMCM Club, season 1912-1913
Description: Adolph Davidovich Brodsky has paid 2750 roubles [the equivalent of 275 pounds then] for the Joseph Guarnerius del Gesu. The signature on this receipt is indecipherable. It is dated 1 Jan 1880
Autograph letter signed from John H. Bennett to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Bennett's wife, who was Katherine Dunham, often speaks of the Brodskys with great affection and Bennett regrets very much to hear that Mrs Brodsky is not well.
Autograph letter signed from Christopher Rawdon Briggs to Anna Brodsky
Description: John Sheridan asks Mrs Brodsky if the Joseph Guarnerius violin used by Dr. Brodsky is for sale and if so, what is the price. The letter is dated 20 Mar 1929
Autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to John P Sheridan
Description: Bennett writes on matters including the photograph of Adolph which Anna sent him, and the sale of Adolph's Guarnerius violin. The letter is dated 6 May 1929.
Autograph letter signed from Katherine Bennett to Anna Brodsky
Description: Includes matters such as the insurance of the Guarnerius violin and the charges involved in such a matter. The letter is dated 14 Jul 1929.
Western Union cable letter from John H Bennett to Wm. E. Hill & Sons
Description: Since arranging with Mrs. Brodsky to deliver the Guarnerius to Hills for shipment, Bennett has arranged for a friend to call on Hills and bring the violin to Bennett. Bennett is writing to Mrs. Brodsky asking her to authorise Hills accordingly. The letter is dated 9 Aug 1929.
Typescript letter signed from John H. Bennett to Anna Brodsky
Description: Bennett informs Mrs. Brodsky that on the previous evening he met his violinist friend Andre Polah who is on his way to Europe and will carry one of Bennett's violins to Hills in a double case so that he may bring back the Guarnerius. He has already sent a cable letter to Hills and encloses a copy [AB/556L] for Mrs. Brodsky. The letter is dated 9 Aug 1929.
Typescript letter signed from John H. Bennett to Anna Brodsky
Description: Bennett has just received Mrs. Brodsky's radiogram to the effect that the Guarnerius is still in Bowdon and her nephew will take the violin to Bennett's friend on hearing from him. To this, Bennett immediately replied by cablegram [AB/560L], which emphasises the importance of the Hill's certificate as an aid to selling. In his letter, Bennett re-enforces the advantage of the Hill's certificate which he requested in his letter of 9 August to them. Bennett suggests that Mrs. Brodsky writes to Mr. Polah. Bennett suggests that Hills may make a higher offer than the 3,000 pounds mentioned and Bennett recommends that she should consider that rather than waiting for the full price in America. The letter is dated 20 Aug 1929.
Description: Mentions that the Hill & Sons certificate describing and identifying Guarnerius is a very important help to selling, and that complete insurance is being provided. Dated 20 Aug 1929.
Autograph telegram from Leon Picard to John H. Bennett
Description: This draft telegram states that difficulties arose when Leon Picard took the violin to London and he had to bring the violin home. On the verso Leon Picard has scribbled some preparatory notes for the planned telegram.
Autograph telegram signed from Anna Brodsky to John H. Bennett
Creator: Hock, Johan C. (fl.1920s), member of the Catterall Quartet
Dates: 1939
Description: Johan Hock writes to Leon Picard about the Guarnerius violin which belonged to Adolph Brodsky. Hock has been in correspondence with Hill & Sons who seem reluctant to authenticate the instrument. If they do not think the instrument is a genuine Joseph Guarnerius del Jesu, they can state so. Without the Hill guarantee, it will be very difficult to sell the instrument in England, on the Continent or in America. Hock will check whether Hill can be compelled to give a guarantee. The letter is dated 28 Jun 1939.
Creator: Maaskoff, Anton (fl.1910s-1943), Violinist
Dates: 1940
Description: Maaskoff indicated that he would possibly be interested in purchasing the Guarnerius, subject to Hill making the necessary repairs (at Maaskoff's expense). Dated 25 Feb 1940.
Description: Hill announce to Picard that Maaskoff agrees to remit them fourteen hundred pounds through a London bank against a receipt for the violin. Dated 14 Mar 1940.
Typescript letter signed from WE Hill & Sons to Leon Picard
Description: Records that the money for the Guarnerius has been received by Maaskoff, and they request how Picard would like the money remitted to himself. Dated 29 Mar 1940.
Autograph letter signed from Leon Picard to WE Hill & Sons
Description: This note is a practice reply or a copy of his reply to AB/569. Picard requests WE Hill & Sons to send the money for the Guarnerius, less the bill for 11 pounds 4 shillings and sixpence (see account detailed in AB/568), by crossed cheque in a registered letter. Dated 1 Apr 1940.
Typescript letter signed from WE Hill & Sons to Leon Picard
Description: Encloses cheque for 1388 pounds 15 shillings and sixpence in payment of Brodsky's Guarnerius violin. Further papers will be sent in due course. Dated 3 Apr 1940.
Typescript letter signed from Albert Phillips to Leon Picard
Description: Albert Phillips informs Leon Picard that Hills are collecting data with a view to writing the history of the Brodsky "Guarneri". He wonders if Mr. Picard has any particulars in the papers left by Mr. Brodsky. In the guarantee furnished by J.B. Vuillaume, they have noted that he sold the violin to a M. Jean Kousminski, a name they have failed to find in any of their reference books. They wonder if Mr. Picard can tell them if he was an amateur or an artist. Dated 8 Apr 1940.
Part of a letter confirming the author's ownership of a violin [the Guarneri?]
Description: On the folder Brodsky has written in Russian, "To my dear nephew and friend Lev Picard in memory of Uncle Adolph.' This is a portrait of Brodsky in repose, almost in profile showing the left side of his face.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1888
Description: Grieg writes enthusiastically to Brodsky from London. He recalls the happy times which he and Nina spent at Kaiser Wilhelm Strasse and Brodsky's wonderful violin playing. Grieg has been playing with Neruda [Wilma Hallé] who has charmed him with her feminine feeling. They will play together in his concert at St. James Hall on 16 May. In the first part they will play his F major sonata and in the second part the Romance and Finale from the third sonata. Chappell has organised the concert and will take half the profits. Grieg has been absolutely astounded at his success with the Philharmonic Society. He was delighted with the string accompaniment in his piano concerto. The critics also reviewed it well. In a postscript Grieg requests that Brodsky shows Fritzsch the reviews. Dated 10 May 1888.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1893
Description: Edvard Grieg is writing to Anna Brodsky on behalf of his wife Nina who is ill. She has been lying in a clinic for 3 weeks as she has a problem with her knees which may be the consequence of too much mineral water. Nina has been taking mineral water for her kidney complaint for more than 6 years. This may have led to a build-up of calcium in her joints. It may be possible to avoid an operation but they will need to have patience. Edvard and Nina have just read of Tchaikovsky's death. He is so grateful to Anna and her husband for enabling him to meet this outstanding artist and human being. Grieg has been conducting his works in Kobenhagen. In a P.S. Grieg mentions that he has heard nothing of Sinding who is in Christiania [now Oslo]. Halvorsen is having great success and is now director of the subscription concerts and of the theatre in Bergen, Grieg's native town. Dated 7 Nov 1893
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1897
Description: Grieg has been convalescing in St. Leonards on Sea and begins his tour in Liverpool on the 20th. The concert in Manchester is on the 24th. The Griegs will arrive chez the Brodskys on the day of the concert and spend the 25th with them before going on to Birmingham on the 25th. Grieg states his terms: he would like a piano for an hour on the 25th and after the concert, one glass of Bordeaux wine and some cold chicken. In a P.S. Grieg mentions that they will be going to London on the 17th. Dated 15 Nov 1897.
Autograph postcard signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1897
Description: Grieg confirms that they will be arriving on Wednesday 24th at 2.30 and will go straight to 41 Acomb Street. Grieg requests an underdone steak at 4 o'clock. The concert is at 7.30 before which he must rest. Grieg asks for the upright piano from Bechstein to be placed in his room. In a P.S. he requests that his room be heated for his practice immediately after his arrival. Dated 21 Nov 1897.
Autograph postcard signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1897
Description: The Griegs are yearning to hear from the Brodskys and are wondering if they have received the letter and photograph. The Griegs think and speak daily of the happy all-too-short time spent chez the Brodskys. Grieg sends greetings to the cat, to Fraulein Neruda and Dayas. They send Christmas greetings but are not celebrating the festive season as they are with dear friends [Julius Røntgen, whose father, Engelbert died in Leipzig on 12 December 1897]. Dated 25 Dec 1897.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1898
Description: Grieg is relieved that the Norwegian Music Festival is over and he can breathe again, after more than 6 months' strain and unbelievable chauvinistic furore in the Norwegian press. The festival has been an outstanding success [3,000 audience in 7 days], one of the most important events of the cultural life of the century, according to a Norwegian man of letters now living in London. How sad that Brodsky could not be playing Sinding's concerto. Grieg feels that Sinding has become rather incomprehensible to him as a person but Sinding did thaw out slightly when Grieg led the applause with a "hurra" after his piano concerto. Sinding had every reason to be satisfied: the concerto went splendidly with the Concertgebouw Orchestra of Amsterdam under his mediocre direction and his symphony was magnificently played under Mengelberg [the Amsterdam Kappellmeister]. Grieg regrets that the Brodskys are to be in Switzerland and not in Troldhaugen after taking the cure in Kissingen. However they ought to go Norway when the nights are light. Grieg is exhausted and is going off with Nina and her sister to the high mountains for some weeks. They have no definite plans for the winter but he would like to find peace in order to work. Yesterday Grieg had a visit from a Russian landowner, Engelmeyer by name. Recently Cesar Cui invited Grieg to conduct in Russia. Dated 27 Jul 1898.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1903
Description: Grieg celebrated his 60th birthday on 15 June 1903. Grieg thanks the Brodskys for the telegram which did not compensate for their absence from his birthday celebrations. It was a week of festivities and worth the journey for Bjornson's speech alone. Julius Røntgen was the only person from abroad. Wolff cancelled at the last minute. Grieg could write much but has more than 500 telegrams, letters and messages to answer. Halvorsen and his wife have been with the Griegs since yesterday and send greetings. In a P.S. Grieg thanks Frau Picard [Olga Skadowsky] for her telegram. In the postscript Grieg mentions that he invited the whole orchestra [The National Theatre Orchestra of Christiania] for breakfast on a mountain near Bergen. They came in a conveyance and Bjornson spoke for tolerance and how he spoke! Dated 25 Jun 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1905
Description: Grieg thanks Brodsky for his letter. A massage cure is detaining Grieg in Kobenhagen. Grieg would like to meet the Brodskys and spend a few days in their company which would be better for him than the good air of Wiesbaden. He is also undergoing dental treatment but hopes to be well enough to travel home at the beginning of May. Grieg has just sent off 2 orchestral scores in manuscript to Peters in Leipzig: orchestral variations and a lyric suite. Grieg hopes that Brodsky will conduct them when possible. He concludes with the tragic truth that illness and productivity are deadly enemies. Dated 19 Apr 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1905
Description: Grieg has invited Brodsky to Norway, but Brodsky is engaged in England until the 14th of August. The second half of August is the worst possible time for Norway: the light nights are over, the rainy season has started, the mountain streams and rivers are in spate. How in all the world do holidays begin in the middle of August? That's when holidays cease in Norway. Grieg is determined that the Brodskys should come to Norway and will do everything in his power to make it enjoyable for them. If there were 3 good string players in Bergen, Grieg would suggest that Brodsky brings his violin for an evening of quartets at Troldhaugen. Since Christmas Grieg has not touched the piano and would be ashamed to appear as soloist. He will prepare for Brodsky's arrival with joy. Grieg sympathises with the Russian people and would bomb the entire bureaucracy with the grand-dukes and the tsar. Dated 26 Apr 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1905
Description: Grieg received Brodsky's letter the previous day. A few weeks ago Nina suddenly became ill and had to be taken to hospital. She had erysipelas and the doctors demand that she spends some weeks in a sanatorium before resuming her domestic duties. However the prospect of having the Brodskys with them from the 11th to the 18th June delights them, but Brodsky has only mentioned himself and they would like to have Anna as well: one has to put up with seasickness for dear friends. Brodsky with wife and child [the violin] are expected. The child will have to play without accompaniment as Grieg has not touched the piano for half a year. Public opinion in both Norway and Sweden is now against the government. The air is full of political intrigue. Grieg extends a welcome to Bergen and Troldhaugen to the Brodskys. Grieg regrets not having been at the Brodskys' silver wedding and sends post-celebration congratulations. Dated 29 May 1905.
Autograph postcard signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1905
Description: After sending his latest letter [AB/593L] to Brodsky, Grieg realised that it would be better for Brodsky to reply to Kristiania as there is not a good steamer to Bergen at the moment. Grieg requests Brodsky to wire on which day and with which ship they intend to arrive in Norway. Dated 29 May 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1905
Description: Grieg replies to Brodsky's letter in which Brodsky announces that he is not coming to Norway. Grieg tried to telegraph him that Nina was better and to come; the Eldorado would be going from Newcastle to Bergen that evening. However the address in Bowdon was not a telegraph address and Grieg could not remember the telegraph office in Manchester. In the meantime, Grieg has caught a chill and had to go to bed. Brodsky has passed on an invitation to Grieg to go to Odessa. This Grieg declines mainly on grounds of health but he also feels that the political situation is rather dubious. Besides, the country and language are unknown to him. Grieg has received an invitation to conduct the Warsaw Philharmonic in Helsingfors [Helsinki] in September. Although the journey is much shorter and one can manage with Swedish and German, he will decline because of health considerations. Were he healthy enough, he would go from Helsingfors to Petersburg and Moscow to fulfil engagements there and then go on to Odessa. Grieg is completely worn out after writing this letter. Nina adds a note of regret. Dated 12 Jun 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: Grieg thanks Brodsky for inviting them. He may have to return home prestissimo because of the coronation in Drontheim, but that is unlikely since he has refused to write a cantata for the event. He will be travelling to Warsaw at the end of March and will be well-paid. Each evening Grieg reads to Nina from Tchaikovsky's Life and Letters. Grieg recognises in Tchaikovsky's melancholic temperament many similarities to his own. Grieg looks forward to the ray of sun, seeing the Brodskys in May. Dated 25 Jan 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: Grieg has just received his honorary doctorate from Oxford but cannot leave England without a promise that the Brodskys will come to Troldhaugen, preferably in July and if not, then in August. Grieg will not be waiting for the reply since, on the day after tomorrow he goes early, via Dover, Calais, Cologne, Hamburg, to Kobenhagen. He has had bronchitis and hopes that he will have a rest from illness over the summer months. They must hope for good weather. Grieg will not be able to provide Tchaikovsky and Brahms. Dated 29 May 1906.
Autograph picture postcard signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: The Griegs are waiting very eagerly for news of the Brodskys' arrival. "Es muss sein," but the question is, when? The Griegs are saving the good weather for them and ask if they prefer hard or soft beds; and what ought to be the diet for the fiddle. Dated 30 Jun 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: Grieg writes a letter of welcome to the Brodskys at the Hotel Norge where the landlord had promised to have the rooms ready. Grieg asks them to remain at the hotel until he collects them or telephones early the following morning. Dated 5 Jul 1906.
Autograph picture postcard signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: The Griegs are delighted that the Brodskys are coming, although late, and bravo with children and niece. Unfortunately the Griegs cannot put up 5. However Grieg can recommend the Hotel Norge where he always stays. By night they will be free but by day they will be the Griegs' booty. Dated 9 Jul 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: Grieg enthuses over the Brodskys' visit which was medicine for body and soul. The photographs have arrived from Brodsky and brought the visit to mind. Grieg believes that he ought to have been sending photographs to Brodsky but will try to complete the string quartet for him. They were delighted to meet Halvorsen, a fine musician and human being but unfortunately he does not appreciate Schumann. Grieg regrets that Brodsky has not seen Halvorsen conduct and that he came to Kristiania one day too late to see and hear Peer Gynt. Grieg sends the song "Mit einer Wasserlilie" which Anna wanted to get to know. Grieg has to send the whole volume as he does not have it singly. In a P.S. Grieg adds that Nina has said that the song is not "Wasserlilie" but "Hoffnung"which is no. 26 in the same volume. Dated 20 Aug 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: Grieg is annoyed that Herr Urbanek in Prague has not given definite dates. Concert agencies in other towns are pressurising him. Grieg sends the score of a newly published orchestral piece about which he has been writing or speaking for years. He would like Brodsky to show it to Richter as he himself is much too shy and arrogant. Grieg believes that it belongs to his best works. Grieg is spending his evenings reading the correspondence between Brahms and the married couple von Herzogenberg with whom Grieg has been friendly for many years. [That was where Grieg first met the Brodskys.] One peeps into their fine souls and they are so alive that Grieg can hardly understand that the three of them are dead and he is still living. In a postscript Grieg enquires about the young and sends them greetings. The painting in the living-room at Troldhaugen is by a Danish artist, PS Krayer. Dated 14 Dec 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Edvard Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: Grieg thanks Brodsky for so much that was good in the year 1906 and hopes that they will meet again in 1907. Grieg has written to Urbanek in Prague to tell him the truth. Urbanek has been blaming the Brodsky Quartet for the delay. Dated 31 Dec 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Hans Guido von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1884
Description: Bülow would like to comply with Brodsky's wishes for next winter: the question is how and when. Bülow suggests Raff's Quintet in A minor. It is improbable but not totally impossible for Bülow to absent himself from Meiningen. Dated 21 Aug 1884.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1884
Description: Bülow regrets that of the suggested dates in December only Wednesday 17 suits him. At the beginning of December he will still be on tour with the Kapelle and he must conduct the local subscription concerts on the Sundays, 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th. Monday 17th would be all right for the concert but bad rail connections would not permit a rehearsal. Bülow suggests that they fix the date for the 17th in the meantime and he would like a reply as soon as possible from Brodsky. Dated 18 Oct 1884.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1884
Description: Bülow has a painful bruising on his left hand and hopes that he will be able to keep his word for the concert on the 17th. He will arrive at Hotel Krafft on Tuesday evening at 9:20 and would like a grand piano in his room. Brodsky would like to have a rehearsal of Raff's op.109 for as long as is necessary. After the concert Bülow will have to make the return journey to be back with the orchestra on Thursday. Dated 8 Dec 1884.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1884
Description: Bülow declines Brodsky's kind invitation as he has aleady refused to have a meal with his Leipzig relatives whom he seldom sees. Bülow would like to see the proof-sheets of the programme. Bülow also requests a piano in his hotel room; otherwise, he will have to find another hotel. Dated 11 Dec 1884.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adoph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1884
Description: Hans von Bülow writes very enthusiastically to Brodsky 2 days after the concert in Leipzig. He would like to have a few programmes and also the newspaper reviews of the concert on the 17th. He has also had a successful soiree in Gottingen. Bülow has permitted himself to send details of Brodsky's musicianship to Berlin, Petersburg and Frankfurt. Bülow concludes with Christmas and New Year greetings. Dated 19 Dec 1884.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1885
Description: Bülow would like to accept Brodsky's offer of the previous year to play in a concert. Brahms will be visiting in the middle of October and Bülow suggests possible dates, 18 or 25 October, for Brodsky to play Brahms's violin concerto. The concerts take place on Sunday afternoons. If Brodsky is inclined to accept this suggestion, Bülow would like to have an early reply with the date most convenient for Brodsky. Dated 26 Sep 1885.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1888
Description: Bülow invites Brodsky to lead the second violins. He handles this unheard-of matter very humorously and it is actually a return service. Dated 1 Oct/19 Sep 1888.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1888
Description: Bülow is overjoyed that Brodsky has accepted. The final rehearsal is on Friday the 19th at 10 am and the concert is at 7:30 pm. Dated 3 Oct/21 Sep 1888.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1889
Description: Hans von Bülow writes to ask if Brodsky is willing and able to conduct Brahms's first piano concerto op. 15 in D minor on 22 February. Of course it will be thoroughly prepared beforehand and Brodsky will only have to have a play-through with the soloist. Bülow would like a speedy reply. Dated 12 Jan 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Hans von Bülow to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1902
Description: In this humorous postcard, Richter acknowledges that Brodsky will be bringing his wife with him on the following day. He admits that their wives are essential dampers when they, the men, get carried away. Dated 29 Nov 1902. With accompanying typed copy of the text of the postcard.
Autograph postcard signed from Marie Richter to Anna Brodsky
Description: Marie Richter regrets that Anna Brodsky is ill and hopes that she is better. Marie would like to call on the morrow and make some visits with Anna. Dated 3 Mar 1903. With accompanying typed copy of the text of the postcard.
Autograph letter signed from Hans Richter to James Forsyth
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1903
Description: Richter writes with displeasure to Mr. Forsyth that Mr. Hatton jun. has not been engaged for the Orchestra. Richter has given Mr. Hatton his word and will not concede. Brodsky's protégé Mr. Leo Smith may have the next vacancy after Richter has heard him play. In a footnote Richter asks for the letter to be sent to Kleinzell bei Hainfeld, N[ieder] Oe[sterreich]. Dated 22 Jun 1903. With accompanying typed copy of the text.
Autograph letter signed from Hans Richter to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1903
Description: Richter expresses his personal annoyance and explains to Brodsky about the appointment of Mr. Smith instead of Mr. Hatton to whom Richter has promised and not just mentioned the job in place of Mr. Roden. If Mr. Smith is poor, he may be given compensation. Richter requests that Brodsky and Fuchs settle the matter with Mr. Smith. Richter is delighted that the Brodskys are now in Bowdon and looks forward to seeing them oftener in the coming winter. Dated 8 Jul 1903. In German.
Autograph letter signed from Marie Richter to Anna Brodsky
Description: Marie explains to Anna that scarcely had Anna gone, when Hans came down and asked where Anna was. Marie now invites Anna to 7.30 dinner on the day of writing. She adds that Hans worships Anna and loves Adolph. He is just a rough diamond. Dated 19 Apr.
Autograph picture postcard signed from Doktor Dlabac to Adolph Brodsky [Incomplete]
Description: Dlabac enquires if Brodsky has received a long letter which he sent to Bowdon about 6 weeks ago. The name Christa Richter has been added to the foot of the postcard with a note in brackets that she is an outstanding violinist. The postcard is incomplete, having been ripped in two with one part missing.
Autograph postcard signed from Hans and Marie Richter to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor; Richter, Marie (1855-fl.1920s)
Dates: 1907
Description: The address and an informal photograph of Richter are printed on this postcard. The postcard or correspondence card has been forwarded from Bowdon to the Brodskys at Clifton Hotel, Blackpool. Hans and Marie Richter send friendly greetings to the Brodskys from Lower Austria. Dated 14 Aug 1907. Not found, 9 May 2006.
Autograph postcard signed from Hans Richter to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1909
Description: Richter extols the peace, cleanliness and beauty of the charming little town of Ballenstedt. They have spent a day in Amalienburg and on the following day will go to Vienna. Dated 10 May 1909. With accompanying typed copy of the text.
Autograph letter signed from Richard Richter to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Richard Richter writes at length of his plans to come to England with some actors and spend some time in Manchester. This is a begging letter strongly beseeching help from Brodsky. Dated 24 Feb 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Richard Richter to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1909
Description: Richter sends very damp greetings from wet Kleinzell where it is raining. The advance ticket sales for the concert are splendid. Preparations are well underway for Brodsky's visit and greetings are sent from many. Dated 15 May 1909. With accompanying typed copy of the text.
Autograph letter signed from Marie Richter to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: Marie Richter remarks that before the hour of departure approaches [Richter retired from the concert platform in April 1911 and left Bowdon on 1 May 1911] they would like to have a little lunch party on the 2nd of April at 1 pm. Marie asks the Brodskys to grace the occasion with their presence. Dated 19 Mar 1911. With accompanying typed copy of the text.
Autograph picture postcard signed from Marie Richter to Anna Brodsky
Description: Picture postcard of Hans Richter with shopping bag and walking stick in Bayreuth. The Richters have spent 5 peaceful weeks in Hungary. Marie is depressed and anxious as Hans is not quite well. Dated 8 Oct 1912. Not found, 9 May 2006.
Autograph postcard signed from Hans Richter to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1913
Description: Richter has just learned from Frau Balling of the death of dear old Broadfield. [E.J. Broadfield was chairman of the Hallé Concerts Society from 1899 until 1913 when he died in office.] No one has sent Richter the announcement of Broadfield's death. He will always think of this fine man with great affection. Richter is happy to continue to be spared to impair excellent music. Dated 23 Oct 1913.
Autograph letter signed from Hans Richter to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: undated
Description: This letter has been delivered to Brodsky on the saloon-train Ostende-Vienna, leaving at 2.40 am. Brodsky's coach number, no. 7, II voiture, has been added, probably by a railway official. Richter will be joining the train in Passau and asks Brodsky to see that they will be able to sit at one table in the restaurant car. A cab has been ordered for Kleinzell.
Autograph letter from Marie Richter to Anna Brodsky
Description: Marie Richter regrets that she is unable to visit Anna as intended today [Sunday] as she has too much to write. However she begs Anna to come in the evening when she will be quite alone.
Autograph letter signed from Marie Richter to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: The letter is written on the back of the printed announcement of the engagement of Maria Richter, daughter of Richard and Marie [née Richter] Richter, to Kurt Dehmel. Marie Richter is very upset to have learned from her son-in-law, Richard Richter that Anna was suffering and is not yet quite recovered. Marie is often at Laurel Mount in her thoughts and heart and recalls how lovely it was in Bowdon with Hans. To find peace near him, Marie returns each year to Bayreuth. Marie is rather dispirited and finds consolation and hope in memories. Ludovika is looking after her. Marie has even let Edgar have her piano, but yesterday Daniela Bulow [Thode] played Beethoven's Waldstein sonata which awoke sad memories. Marie's little grand-daughter Maria has become engaged and will get married in a year. Marie sends the Brodskys the engagement announcement and hopes that even an atom of their marital happiness will flow on to them. Dated 22 Nov 1922.
Autograph letter signed from Ferruccio Busoni to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Busoni has been delighted to receive Brodsky's letter from Herr Dehn. Busoni wholeheartedly recommends Herr Dayas to Brodsky. In a postscript, he adds that not only is Dayas an outstanding pianist but is also a teacher non plus ultra. With his knowledge, thinking and zeal he will put more famous names in the shade. As a rising pianist he lacks only fame. Busoni realises that fame is exactly what is required in England. Dated 4 Jun 1896.
Autograph letter signed from Feruccio Busoni to Anna Brodsky
Description: Busoni writes to Anna belatedly to accept Adolph's kind invitation. He regrets his refusal in June but still hopes to hear Adolph play his violin sonata which he will bring with him. Dated 17 Jul 1898.
Autograph letter signed from Ferruccio Busoni to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: This is a very warm letter to the Brodskys. Busoni has had several pangs of conscience at not writing after leaving them. Busoni loved Edinburgh and was certainly not disappointed. The score of his violin concerto has not yet been published and he wants to send everything at the same time. However he has sent a copy of the piano arrangement to Dayas. Finally Busoni is most enthusiastic about his stay with the Brodskys and Brodsky's wonderful playing. Dated 2 Feb 1899.
Autograph letter signed from Ferruccio Busoni to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: Busoni is overjoyed that his wife Gerda gave birth to a son on the 1st of February. The event has created a little revolution in the house. On the previous day, the 4th of February, came the unexpected news that dear Novacek is no more. Busoni received 2 telegrams: one from Boston and one from New York with the unbelievable fact. Few people knew him as Busoni, Brodsky and perhaps also Sinding did. He annoyed and charmed them but when he went off to America without saying farewell Busoni felt that something had broken within him. Busoni asks if Brodsky knows the cause of death. He scarcely feels able to write to Novacek's father. Busoni has aged with the closeness of birth and death. He has not yet broken the sad news to his wife. Busoni asks Brodsky to inform Miss Aspelin gently but to ask her not to write to Gerda of it. Dated 5 Feb 1900.
Autograph letter signed from Ferruccio Busoni to Anna Brodsky
Description: Busoni writes to Anna that he has been tired and suffering from overwork. Although he is ready for England on 18th March and firmly resolved to remaining there for 17 days, he was very grateful to Adolph for releasing him from his word and postponing the engagement until next December. Busoni enjoys working with Adolph's quartet and is delighted that he is needed. Dated 4 Mar 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Ferruccio Busoni to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: Busoni writes that he had had the best of intentions of spending more time with the Brodskys and thanks them for their friendly attentiveness towards him. He looks forward to the celebration for Grieg on 12 November. He will do his best with devotion and joy. Dated 3 Oct 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Ferruccio Busoni [to Adolph and Anna Brodsky]
Description: Busoni has received a poem by [R. L.] Stevenson which has pleased him. Busoni is quite familiar with him as a writer of prose but not as a poet. Busoni will not see the Brodskys for some time but will take them as valuable memories with him to America. May be lacking the first page since there is no form of address to the recipients. Dated 5 Nov 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Ferruccio Busoni to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Busoni has received a letter from Brodsky and passed on the contents to his protege. Busoni has been working on Egon [Petri] and thinks that he ought to be destined to a better fate than that of a piano teacher in Manchester. At the age of 30 he ought to be making a decision and in this Busoni is giving him encouragement. In the course of the letter, Busoni reveals that Brodsky is considering settling in Berlin. Busoni expresses doubts about such a large project. On the previous day Busoni walked through the Jewish quarter: the Russian Jews are at least out of danger of persecution now, but what improvement is there for the Italians. They have no soul. In conclusion, Busoni thanks Brodsky for his good wishes for his opera: Busoni hopes that he has not been mistaken in his labour. Dated 20 Feb 1911.
Autograph letter signed from Camille Saint-Saëns to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Saint-Saëns, Charles Camille (1835-1921), Composer
Dates: 1911
Description: Saint-Saëns writes to Brodsky to recommend Benoit Hollander who has been suggested as successor to Richter. He is an excellent musician and extremely intelligent. Formerly he was a pupil of Saint-Saëns and Saint-Saëns would be happy to see him in a post worthy of him. Last year, thanks to Hollander, Saint-Saëns was able to achieve absolute perfection in Mozart concertos. Dated 28 Feb 1911.
Autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Ecray de Claxton, with accompanying receipt
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1897
Description: Brodsky sends a letter with the receipt for his Guadagnini violin to Mr. Claxton. In this friendly letter Brodsky thanks Mr. Claxton for the cheque and admits that he is missing the violin but adds humorously that Mrs. Brodsky is glad that he has got rid of the fearfull [sic] rival of his Guarnerius. He advises Leonora not to play to [sic] much: she might hurt her left hand. Dated 2 Apr 1897.
Autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Anna Brodsky re the death of Edvard Grieg
Description: Adolph Brodsky writes to his wife Anna some time after his arrival in Bergen for the funeral of Edvard Grieg. Halvorsen called for Brodsky and they went to a rehearsal of Grieg's Funeral March and Varen [Fruhling] for string orchestra. Brodsky ordered a wreath in the name of the Brodsky Quartet. Then they went into the museum to look at Grieg. Nina, Tony and many of Grieg's relatives were there. Brodsky was deeply moved by the spiritual beauty of the corpse. Brodsky has met Grieg's best friends Herr and Frau Franz Bayer, who told Brodsky of Grieg's final suffering when he was out of breath and could no sleep. When he went into hospital he had a presentiment of his own death. He died peacefully in his sleep. The funeral is on the following day and afterwards they will go to the Bayers' home which is very near Troldhaugen. His hotel room is no. 28 very close to the rooms 30, 31 and 32 of last year. In a postscript Brodsky mentions that Bjornson is now over 75 years old and weak and will not be coming to the funeral. He has sent a wreath and his poem on the death of Grieg has appeared in the newspaper. Dated 8 Sep 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Eugène Ysaye to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Ysaye has been requested to ask Brodsky and his quartet to accept an engagement in Brussels this winter. There will be 6 concerts devoted to classical chamber works and Joachim and his partners are engaged for the Beethoven session. The Brahms session could be done by Brodsky and partners who could be joined by the clarinettist Muhlfeld, an ideal interpreter of Brahms. Before suggesting dates, Ysaye is checking that the project is agreeable to Brodsky and he would like a speedy reply or even a telegram at the address Ysaye-Bernimont. If the project is not possible, Ysaye will try to find another combination for Brodsky alone. Ysaye is pig-rearing, looking after the cows and writing music. Dated 26 Jul 1901.
Creator: Hallé, Wilma Maria Francisca (1839-1911), Violinist
Dates: 1879
Description: Wilma Norman Neruda became the 2nd wife of Charles Hallé in 1888. This letter is written to a concert-manager in Holland. Wilma Neruda suggests a possible programme for her forth-coming tour. She offers the A minor concerto by Viotti or Spohr's 8th concerto, with as 2nd solo, the Adagio and Rondo from the E major concerto by Vieuxtemps; or, the Mendelssohn concerto, if Joachim has not already played it in Amsterdam, followed by the Adagio from Spohr's 9th concerto or Romance in F by Beethoven. She asks to be booked into the best hotel and will need a sitting-room and a large bedroom with 2 beds. Dated 23 Feb 1879.
Autograph letter signed from Hans Becker to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Becker, Hans (fl.1890-fl.1910s), violinist, teacher, member of the Brodsky Quartet
Dates: 1905
Description: Hans Becker shares in the happiness of the Brodskys' Silver Wedding and recalls the many hours spent in their company. His wife Else is taking the cure at Contreceville and Becker has written to her of this. It is now 21 years since Becker first entered the Brodsky home. He has still not forgiven Sitt and Damrosch [who enticed Brodsky to New York in 1891] and broken the stay in Leipzig. Becker asks how the Brodskys spent their day. Dated 14 May 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Hans Becker to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Becker, Hans (fl.1890-fl.1910s), violinist, teacher, member of the Brodsky Quartet
Dates: 1911
Description: Becker writes to Brodsky to share the 25th jubilee of his arrival as teacher at the Leipzig Conservatoire. He expresses immense appreciation to Brodsky and his wife for all they have done and for the home for him at Kaiser-Wilhelm Strasse. His wife Else has died and for this reason, he has requested his colleagues not to celebrate his anniversary. Dated 1 May 1911.
Autograph letter signed from Edouard Lalo to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Lalo invites Brodsky to play viola in quartets with Sarasate chez Lalo on the evening of Friday 18th. Sarasate would like a rehearsal at his home on Friday morning at 10 o'clock. Dated 14 Feb 1881.
Autograph letter signed from Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Turgenev, Ivan Sergeevich (1818-1883) author
Dates: [1881]
Description: Turgenev writes to Brodsky to pass on a message from his accompanist Krachkovskii. There will be a rehearsal on Saturday at 5 o'clock at 18 rue de Tilsitt. Krachkovskii would like to have the music beforehand and Turgenev asks if he may have it to pass on to Krachkovskii. In a postscript, Turgenev adds that their musical-literary evening will be on Monday 14 February at 18 rue Tilsitt. Dated Tuesday morning.
Autograph letter signed from Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Turgenev, Ivan Sergeevich (1818-1883) author
Dates: [1881]
Description: Turgenev writes to Brodsky to explain that he has accidentally sent the wrong letter to Brodsky the previous day: it was addressed to Mr Bakshevich and Turgenev muddled the addresses. Mr. Bakshevich has returned the music which Turgenev now passes on to Brodsky and asks for the return of the other copy. Dated Wednesday morning.
Autograph letter signed from Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Turgenev, Ivan Sergeevich (1818-1883) author
Dates: [1881]
Description: Turgenev writes in brief to Brodsky. He needs to have a talk with Brodsky and suggests the following morning towards 1 o'clock. Dated Saturday.
Autograph letter signed from Eugen d'Albert to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: d'Albert, Eugen Francois Charles (1864-1932), pianist, composer
Dates: 1888
Description: Eugen d'Albert writes very apologetically to Brodsky for not writing earlier nor for returning the Brodskys' visit. At first bad weather and then work prevented them from coming. D'Albert can only compose in summer. D'Albert hopes that this letter will reach Brodsky's holiday place. He will send the score of the quartet to Brodsky in Leipzig. Dated 30 Aug 1888.
Autograph letter signed from Wilhelm Backhaus to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Brodsky's letter has been sent on to Backhaus as he is already on tour. Backhaus would like to play again with Brodsky and the 17th February would suit him best. He hopes that the Brodskys will give him the pleasure of coming to his concert in Manchester on the 16th. Dated 1 Nov 1903.
Autograph note by Adolph Brodsky on back of envelope from Brahms
Creator: Brahms, Johannes (1833-1897), Composer; Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1891
Description: Envelope addressed by Johannes Brahms to Herrn Koncertmeister Adolf Brodsky, Leipzig. If need be, to be found at the Music Conservatoire. A note by Adolph Brodsky to the effect that on the occasion of the first performance of the G major String Quintet, Brodsky wrote to Brahms that the 'cello melody could not be heard when the violins were playing forte. Postmarked 2 Apr 1891.
Autograph letter signed from Johannes Brahms to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Brahms writes humorously to Brodsky about his G major quintet, op. 111. The 2 violins must bluff their forte from the third and fourth bars to allow the cello to come through. Klengel must be humoured and he will reward them with a most beautiful piano in the course of the movement. Dated April.
Newspaper article concerning Johannes Brahms's letter to Adolph Brodsky re Brahms's G Major Quintet
Description: Article contains a facsimile copy of Brahms's letter, AB/655a, with a full translation and context surrounding it. The headline reads, "Brahms's G Major Quintet: His letter to Dr Brodsky; An Interesting Facsimile'. There are two copies of this article.
Autograph letter signed from Johannes Brahms to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Brahms writes to Brodsky , informing him of Schirmer's proposition to reprint Brahms's music. Brahms warns Brodsky about reprints, and how to go about dealing with his music. Brahms would like Brodsky to mark the fingerings and bowings and leave the rest unadorned.
Autograph postcard signed from Johannes Brahms to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Addressed to: Herrn Adolf Brodsky, Leipzig, Kaiser Wilhelmstraße. It reads: “Einverstanden - namentlich mit [Nr] 1 u. 3 des Programmes Bestens Ihr, J Brahmsâ€. The postcard refers to the forthcoming concert of the Brodsky Quartet in Leipzig on 2 January 1888. Brahms took part in a performance of the Piano Trio in C minor Op. 101. Quartet participants: Brodsky & Hans Becker, vlns; Hans Sitt, vla; Julius Klengel, vc. Postmarked 26 Dec 1887. The program for this concert is held in the Brodsky Archive, AB/151.
Creator: Meyerbeer, Giacomo (1791-1864) opera compose
Dates: [1862]
Description: This letter is an attestation of Adolph Brodsky's musicianship at 11 years of age. By the desire of Herr Brodsky from Kherson, Meyerbeer has listened to his 11-year-old son Adolph play a fantasy for violin by Alard. In Meyerbeer's opinion, this child has a tremendous gift for music in general and for violin-playing in particular. He performs with real understanding and feeling. Meyerbeer suggests that the child should spend a few years under an excellent maestro so that he may become a remarkable violinist.
Autograph letter signed from Arthur Nikisch to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Arthur Nikisch writes with great regret that he has not been able to see the Brodskys this time. He had been counting on seeing them after the concert for a cosy little hour. Dated 23 Feb 1910.
Autograph letter signed from Hubert Parry to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Parry, Charles Hubert Hastings (1848-1918), Knight, composer, writer
Dates: 1903
Description: Parry writes to ask if Brodsky knows of any young composers who might like to submit compositions to be selected by experts for a concert early next term. This is part of a new scheme to encourage native British talent. Dated 28 Sep 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Hubert Parry to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Parry, Charles Hubert Hastings (1848-1918), Knight, composer, writer
Dates: 1904
Description: Parry asks Brodsky about Olga Neruda's capabilities as a teacher of pianoforte. Miss Neruda is a great favourite of the Queen's and this is a purely confidential matter between Parry and their Majesties. Parry does not reveal the reason for this enquiry. Dated 7 Jan 1904.
Autograph postcard signed from Ethel Smyth to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Smyth, Ethel (1858-1944), Dame of the Order of the British Empire, composer, suffragette
Dates: 1922
Description: Ethel Smyth writes to thank Brodsky for the trouble she has given him. Ethel Smyth thinks that the only copy extant is in Fanny Davies's hands and she is always either abroad or out of London. Postmarked 3 Apr 1922.
Autograph letter signed from Jakob Dont to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Dont, Jakob (1815-1888), Violinist, teacher
Dates: 1875
Description: Jakob Dont thanks Brodsky for writing. Dont congratulates Brodsky on his achievement as an artist. Brodsky's conscientiousness and earnestness lead to true art and guarantee success. Brodsky has asked if he may come as a boarder to share Dont's country retreat. Dont cannot make a definite reply to this as he is between a journey and a stay in the country. In a postscript, Dont apologises for the late reply but Brodsky's letter has been lying around for a few days after the concert there. Dated 21 Mar 1875.
Autograph letter from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Lev Abramovich Kupernik, with transcript
Description: Tchaikovsky has just discovered in a letter from his publisher Jurgenson that Brodsky has played his concerto in Vienna. The concerto has been written for 4 years and considered by various expert Russian violinists to be unplayable. Tchaikovsky is very touched and deeply indebted to Brodsky for whom he has always had a sincere sympathy. He realises how difficult it must have been for Brodsky, not yet established in Vienna, to appear in public with a concerto by an unknown Russian composer. As Tchaikovsky does not know of Brodsky's whereabouts, he is writing to Kupernik to convey his gratitude to Brodsky. Dated 1/13 Dec [1881]. Both the original letter [in a poor condition] and an English transcript are included here.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky is pleased to have a letter from Brodsky and is delighted to be able to write to him directly instead of through Kupernik and Jurgenson. Tchaikovsky wrote to the latter after chancing upon the Neue Freie Presse in which Hanslick described his music as "stinking". Tchaikovsky praises Brodsky for appearing before a Viennese audience with an unknown concerto and expresses his deep gratitude. Tchaikovsky will write to Colonne with whom he has corresponded and ask him to look after Brodsky. However he will not mention that Brodsky is going to play his violin concerto. Tchaikovsky hopes very much that he will be able to go to Karlsruhe and asks Brodsky for the exact date when he intends to play. Dated 1/13 Jan 1882.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky addresses Brodsky by his forename and patronymic, Adolph Davidovich. Tchaikovsky is delighted to have heard from Brodsky the previous evening and cannot thank Brodsky enough for his fatherly care of his concerto. Tchaikovsky worries that the unfortunate concerto which inspired Brodsky may hinder Brodsky's career. Tchaikovsky greatly values Brodsky's attitude to his music and his friendship. Tchaikovsky came to Moscow with the intention of staying for only a few days but has already been detained for 3 weeks by proof readings. He is also editing the complete works of Dmitry Stepanovich Bortnyansky for Jurgenson. These are very many, poor in subject matter and monotonous. Although he loves Moscow, he is sad since so many of his friends have disappeared or are so aged and he wants to go off to the country. Tchaikovsky has heard that Brodsky has been invited to play at the Exhibition which Tchaikovsky hopes to see and may also hear Brodsky. Dated 15 Apr [1882].
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: In this brief letter Tchaikovsky announces to Brodsky that he will breakfast alone and suggests that Brodsky starts rehearsing. Tchaikovsky will appear in approximately one and a half hours. Tchaikovsky wants Brodsky to stay until this evening or to allow him to. He wants to hear Walkyrie. Dated 9 Jan.
Photocopy of autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: The letter is on monogrammed paper. Tchaikovsky is overjoyed to have heard from Brodsky of more success with the concerto. [Brodsky gave the London premiere at one of the Richter concerts in spring 1882.] Tchaikovsky asks Brodsky to pass on his gratitude to Richter and rejoices that Brodsky has achieved success in London. Tchaikovsky hopes that once he has established a name for himself Brodsky may return to the Conservatoire in Moscow. Tchaikovsky is enjoying the pleasures of the country after a month in Moscow where he bore much distressing melancholy with the awareness of the irretrievableness of time. This sick feeling increases with age. However both at Kamenka and when in isolation in Rome Tchaikovsky's moral well-being is much stronger. He is planning to write an opera. He wishes Brodsky success and wonders how definite is the question of Brodsky's going to Moscow in the summer. Brodsky did play the concerto at the Great Exhibition in Moscow in August 1882.] The letter is dated 4 May 1882. The original letter was presented to John Ogdon on 22 May 1962 to commemorate his success with the Tchaikovsky Piano Competition in Moscow 1962. The date the photocopy was taken is unknown.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky has proposed that Brodsky should play in one of the Music Society Concerts. However the other directors of the society decided that it would be awkward since Brodsky has taken part in the Philharmonic Society. It is suggested that Brodsky take part in the 87-88 season. Tchaikovsky has now received Brodsky's letter and has approached Erdmannsdorfer in the presence of Jurgenson to suggest that they take advantage of Brodsky's presence in Petersburg. There are already too many violinists and the programmes are all made up. Tchaikovsky did not insist and feels very sensitive about the whole issue. He is also rather weary of the directorship of the Musical Society. He will meet Brodsky in Petersburg on the 27th. He is now engulfed in rehearsals for the opera which will be produced probably in the middle of December in the Russian calendar. Dated 26 Nov 1886.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky has written to Brodsky from Paris but has had no reply and assumes that the letter never arrived. He tells Brodsky how much he loves him and Anna and Olga Lvovna; and recalls the wonderful hours spent with them in Leipzig. He has had great success in both Paris and London and is off to the Caucasus for a rest with Vienna en route. In a postscript he adds that he has written to Grieg but had no reply. Dated 27 Mar [1888].
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky has written to Brodsky at the Conservatoire, from Paris, Vienna and Tiflis without receiving a reply. He now writes to Anna and is distressed that their interchange has been broken. Tchaikovsky wants to know what they are doing; if Olga Lvovna is still with them; if Adolph has grown thin or fat. Tchaikovsky spent spring in the Caucasus and remained almost all summer in the country and worked. He has finished a symphony and a symphonic poem. Soon he must leave his country solitude. His concert in Petersburg will be on November 5th and then he goes to Prague for the production of Eugene Onegin. He will visit Leipzig as he badly wants to see the Brodskys. They have given him tremendous moral support when he has been overwhelmed with raging melancholy. He has accidentally found their address. He begs for a reply and sends very warm greetings. Dated 8 Oct 1888.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Anna Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky writes to Anna Lvovna that he will come to dinner on Saturday. He requests Anna not to spread news of his arrival in Leipzig since he will only be going to the Brodskys. Dated 25/13 Feb 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky writes to Brodsky about arrangements for forthcoming concerts. Tchaikovsky himself must conduct the concert on 28th October. Brodsky wanted to come for the Christmas holidays if possible and to this end, Tchaikovsky tried for a concert at the end of December or the beginning of January, but one of these had to be given to Klindworth and one [6 January] to Rubinstein. Tchaikovsky asks if Brodsky can take part in his concert on 28th October. The Music Society offers the Brodsky Quartet a series of quartet evenings, for which they will be guaranteed 500 rubles and if there is a surplus profit, that will be for the quartet. This series will be at the end of December or the beginning of January; or should this be brought forward to November to avoid Brodsky having to go twice to Russia. Dated 2 Jun [1889].
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky is delighted that Brodsky will come to play in his concert on 28th October and sends the programme: Symphony in D major by Mozart; Brodsky to play the Tchaikovsky violin concerto or any other he likes; Passe-pied and Gavotte from Idomeneo - Mozart; Hamlet Fantasy-overture - Tchaikovsky; Brodsky to play incidental pieces with pianoforte; overture - Litolff. The quartet dates are now in October and if the first was on 27th October that would rather dim the glory of the concerto on the following day. Anna and Olga Lvovna must come to Moscow. Meanwhile Tchaikovsky is chained to his desk finishing his ballet for the beginning of the Petersburg season. Dated 16 Jun 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky begs to be excused for muddling the arrangements for the quartet's visit. It has been decided that one of their 4 pianists will play at each of the 4 sessions. If one was left out there would unpleasantness and quarrels. Tchaikovsky begs Brodsky to play at the 4 sessions and gives dates between the 31 October/ 19 November and 10/22 November so that the quartet would require to be in Moscow for only 2 weeks but Brodsky would have to be there for longer to attend a rehearsal of the concerto on 26th. Tchaikovsky then adds that Brodsky will have a whole week 12/24 - 19/30 November in Petersburg. Brodsky may like to write to Albrecht himself. Dated 9 Jul 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky has not written earlier because he has been busy with the ballet score. He apologises for the muddle: there will be 3 evenings not 4, but the takings will be magnificent. Of the pianists, 2 are especially influential and will draw an audience; and they feel very honoured to play with the quartet. They have done well to be rid of Erdmannsdorfer and his wife is quite insufferable. Tchaikovsky will write soon with details of what the pianists have chosen to play with the quartet. He requests Brodsky to choose incidental pieces without orchestra [for the concert on 28 October]. Dated 15 Sep 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky sends Brodsky details of the concert programmes: Pabst will play Rubinstein's quintet op.99; Taneiev will play Tchaikovsky's own trio; Siloti and Safonov have not yet decided. Tchaikovsky would like to know when they are coming and if he should book them into an hotel. Tchaikovsky asks what Brodsky intends to play in the second half of the concert: preferably for violin alone to avoid bringing in a piano. Tchaikovsky has, with difficulty, recovered Brodsky's parts in Petersburg. Dated 4 Oct 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: This is a letter of introduction. Tchaikovsky invites the Brodskys to love and befriend his dear young friend Jules Konius. Dated 30 Sep 1891.
Autograph letter signed from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Tchaikovsky writes to wish the Brodskys every success in New York. He reaffirms his love and friendship for Adolph and also for his wife after Leipzig. He philosophises on how fate brings people together in intimacy and then separates them for many years. Tchaikovsky thinks of the Brodskys on the Furst Bismark familiar to him and can picture them in New York. He has known of Brodsky's appointment through Damrosch for a long time and thoroughly approves of Brodsky's decision to move to America. As for himself, Tchaikovsky is working hard to complete 2 big scores; he has to go to Hamburg and Prague for opera productions, and to France and Holland for concerts as well as conducting in various parts of Russia. He has been invited to America in the spring but has been offered a very paltry fee. Tchaikovsky has not had the parts of his 3rd suite which he used in New York returned and is in dire need of them for the new edition. He requests Brodsky to bestir himself to find them and have them sent to Jurgenson. Tchaikovsky strongly commends Konius, with whom he became intimate in Paris, to Brodsky and is delighted that he will meet such good compatriots on foreign soil. He has very happy memories of New York and its people. He asks Brodsky to remind Konius that he promised to write. Dated 19 Oct 1891.
Telegram from Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Sinding, Christian August (1856-1941), Composer
Dates: 1889
Description: Sentimental letter of appreciation to Brodsky. Sinding has learned more from Brodsky than from any one else. The Brodskys helped Sinding when he was low and only God knows what would have become of him otherwise. His post is better than he thought it would be. Here, all are fighting against all. Sinding wishes that the Brodskys would come in summer. Sinding feels that he would like to go elsewhere in this large and beautiful world. He adds an address: Adr. Advokat Mejdell, Dronningensgade 28. Dated 16 Apr 1889.
Autograph letter signed from Christian Sinding to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Sinding, Christian August (1856-1941), Composer
Dates: 1889
Description: Sinding replies belatedly to Anna Brodsky's letter. He expresses appreciation of the Brodskys' sympathy and interest in him. Sinding wonders if he will be able to go to Cherson in the winter. He has been angry with his librettist who has not yet finished his drama but promises it in 14 days. As a result, he has not begun any major work, but has written some small works, mainly songs, including a few Russian ones. He has also a new violin sonata in his head. In spite of his bad luck, he has become strong and healthy like a bull and is also sunburnt. He will leave Norway again with pleasure, and especially in one of the big ships which go to Odessa every 14 days. It would be lovely to see Frau Brodsky again in Cherson. However, Sinding must remain at home, probably until Christmas. Before then he will scarcely be ready. Dated 3 Jun 1889
Autograph letter signed from Christian Sinding to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Sinding, Christian August (1856-1941), Composer
Dates: 1891
Description: Sinding excuses himself for the delay in replying but he has already done so in spirit. Her letter had a great effect on him as she herself perhaps knows. Sinding gives his Norwegian address where he will be from the beginning or middle of April. Dated 5 Mar 1891.
Autograph letter signed from Christian Sinding to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Sinding, Christian August (1856-1941), Composer
Dates: 1892
Description: Sinding is very grateful that Frau Brodsky bears no reproaches over his long silence. He received her last letter shortly before he left Christiania and of course it was his intention to reply in Paris. However he began work on his never-ending symphony and as often happens, he was completely absorbed in it. The damned symphony is at last finished for the third time, as is Sinding who then makes a general pause. Brodsky certainly deserved the Order [in 1891 Brodsky received the St. Olaf's Order from the Norwegian Parliament on account of services rendered to Norwegian musicians and composers.] The Norwegians have much to be grateful for from Brodsky. Sinding has not seen much of Paris and will soon be going back to Norway. He has heard his quintet performed by Mr. Blumer- probably a German- and Mr. Marsick and others in the Erard Salle. Sinding went incognito and as such bought his own ticket. The first movement went very beautifully but somewhat slow in tempo, the second movement even slower and the third movement slowest of all. It was all very clean but not very enchanting. He thought the finale would be better. However the players got up and went. Sinding did likewise and heard later that Mr. Marsick had been invited out and did not have time to play the finale. Sinding does not like the amputation. His friend Delius sends greetings to the Brodskys. He gives his address: Advocat G.Th. Mejdell Kopp's gard, Torvet, Christiania. Dated 2 May 1892.
Autograph letter signed from Christian Sinding to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Sinding, Christian August (1856-1941), Composer
Dates: 1895
Description: Sinding excuses himself for his laziness at writing but he is always tired and useless after work. He is very grateful to Frau Brodsky that he can turn to her in complete confidence and openness and he treasures her. Sinding is very delighted that Brodsky is having success in all directions in England and the people of Manchester must appreciate what power they have in Brodsky and do all they can to keep him. In Berlin everything continues as before. Busoni is having much success and yesterday he received an engagement with the Philharmonic in Vienna. Sinding asks if there might be a post for him in Manchester. Poor old Novacek is not very well; he was almost dead but recovered. It would be sad if he died too soon when he has so much talent and so much to do. Sinding's old friend Delius was there for a while. On Sinding's advice, he sent the Violin Legende to Brodsky. Sinding thinks it will be very good, especially with orchestra and it is well scored. Sinding is fine and so is his music. The symphony will be played in February, Sinding thinks, in Glasgow under Kis. Were it not so expensive, Sinding woud love to have gone and then to have visited the Brodskys. His work is going well but he is annoyed with Dr. Abraham whose maxim is "kurz und klein" - "kurze ist Wurze". This is not Sinding's view. In conclusion, Sinding sends the Brodskys Christmas wishes. Dated 16 Dec 1895.
Autograph letter signed from Christian to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Sinding, Christian August (1856-1941), Composer
Dates: undated
Description: Sinding regrets that once more he must abandon visiting the Brodskys. He cannot stand the climate and must leave. Now the snow has come and made everything impossible for Sinding. He has resolved to go to Paris for a short time and then go on to Norway. The purpose of his stay in London was the completion of his violin concerto. The alterations which according to Brodsky's friend should be made, must be postponed until later. Sinding thanks Brodsky heartily for his letter, for the enclosed review and for the news about Novacek's quartet. Sinding cannot write any more: he has hardly slept for 8 days and is now like an electric machine. In a footnote Sinding gives the permanent address: Wilhelm Hausen, Musikverlag Gotlursgade 11 Copenhagen. Dated Thursday evening
Autograph letter signed from Christian Sinding to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Sinding, Christian August (1856-1941), Composer
Dates: 1907
Description: With this letter, Sinding sends a photograph of himself [AB/233] as promised to Frau Brodsky. He philsophises that one does not become younger with passing years. He fears these photographs which demand that he should be bright and merry. One becomes cleverer but not happier. The Brodskys have the new generations of young people to help and guide. Dated 23 Jan 1907.
Autograph letter ending signed from Christian Sinding
Creator: Kupernik, Lev Abramovich (1845-1905) lawyer, theatre critic
Dates: 1879
Description: Kupernik informs Anna L'vovna that her letter of 21/9 January arrived during his absence from Kiev. He had been in various countries of the Russian Empire: Petersburg, Moscow, Kharkov and the Caucasus. Kupernik envies Anna and envies Paris because it is with Anna. He has not heard from Adolph recently. He sends greetings to Anna's sister. Dated 11 Feb 1879.
Autograph letter signed from L. Kupernik to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Kupernik, Lev Abramovich (1845-1905) lawyer, theatre critic
Dates: [1879]
Description: Kupernik will stay in Paris until the middle of the evening. He would like to see the Brodskys and suggests going to them in the morning between 10 and 11.
Description: Modest Tchaikovsky sends Easter greetings to Adolph Brodsky. During Brodsky's 2 day stay with him he has become as attached to him as if they had lived inseparably for 2 years. He will send the photographs one of these days. Dated 13/26 Apr 1908. There is also an English translation of the postcard, written on a second card.
Autograph letter signed from Modest Il'yich Tchaikovsky to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Modest Tchaikovsky sends the Brodskys the not very successful photographs which are nonetheless very dear to him as a reminder of the happy day spent with Brodsky. Like Peter, Modest feels awkward in society and Brodsky is one of the very few people with whom Modest feels at home. Modest is thinking of going to Manchester next year to stay for a few days with Brodsky before returning to Rome. Modest hopes that Brodsky will be able to spend a few days at Peter's house when he travels to Russia. The previous day, Modest heard Thomson [possibly the Belgian violinist, Cesar Thomson?] but magnificent though he was, Modest did not forget Wednesday evening. Dated 28 Apr 1908. Included in this item is an English translation of the letter.
Description: On the back of this programme is written an amusing parody on Krylov's fable "The Donkey and the Nightingale" in which Brodsky is portrayed as the nightingale. This was written in very tiny hand-writing on 11 April 1880, the day after the concert. The programme includes a variety of soloists: pianists, singers and Brodsky himself who plays Tartini's "The Devil's Trill" in the first part of the concert and Wieniawsky's "Legende" followed by a Brahms Hungarian Dance in the second part. The concert was held on 10 Apr 1880.
Autograph letter signed from IU Pimerantsev to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Pimerantsev, I.U. (fl.1909), secretary to the Director of the Moscow Conservatoire
Dates: 1909
Description: Pimerantsev is secretary to the Director of the Moscow Conservatoire. This letter is a polite reminder to Adolph Brodsky that the symphony concert of the Moscow Order of the Imperial Russian Music Society with Brodsky's participation [the Tchaikovsky violin concerto] will take place on the 19 December/ 1 January. The orchestral rehearsals for this concert will begin on Thursday 17 December at 9 in the morning. The final rehearsal will be on 19 December at 9 am in the Great Hall of the Conservatoire in Nikitskii Street. Oscar Nedbal will conduct the concert. Dated 4/17 Dec 1909. There are also notes on the translation of this letter included with this item.
Autograph postcard signed from Hans Richter to Carl Fuchs
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1903
Description: Hans Richter informs Carl Fuchs that Dvorak will suit him fine; the bits of Bach are Fuchs's concern, but unaccompanied in the great hall? He suggests 6 November but if this date is already booked with Forsyth, they will find a later free date. Richter does not think a postponement will bother Fuchs as they must show consideration for non-local artists regarding holiday, travel, etc. Postmarked 13 Jun 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Hans Richter to Carl Fuchs
Creator: Richter, Hans Johann Baptist Isidor (1843-1916), Conductor
Dates: 1912
Description: Richter reports to Carl Fuchs after an extensive medical examination with his doctor, Dr. Furth, who has advised him to cease all artistic activity. He is never sure of not passing out and at the wedding reception, he had to leave the room several times as he was almost fainting. Vigorous physical movements are strictly forbidden. Could he then conduct a concert? He encloses Dr. Furth's letter to confirm his decision, although he knows that everyone will believe his word. Richter sends greetings to his fellow artists. He regrets that he cannot follow his heart but hopes very much that his heart's wish may be granted later. In a post-script, Richter requests that Fuchs returns Dr. Furth's letter. Balling was informed 4-5 weeks ago of the eventuality of his not being there. Dated 3 Mar 1912.
Creator: Helmholtz, Hermann von (1821-1894), physician, physicist
Dates: 1883
Description: This is a photograph of a portrait of Professor von Helmholtz dated 1881, by L. Kraus. It is housed in the National Gallery, Berlin. Professor Helmholtz is seated at a table covered with a cloth upon which are the professor's instruments and an open book.
Description: This photograph is a picture postcard of the Brodsky Quartet comprising Dr. Adolph Brodsky, Mr. Rawdon Briggs, Mr. Simon Speelman and Mr. Carl Fuchs. The postcard has been used by Speelman to communicate with Brodsky in Moscow. It is dated 28 December 1909.
Description: On the back of this photograph is written in pencil: vid Kremlia [view of the Kremlin]. This photograph gives a broad general view of the Kremlin with Moscow in the background.
Description: On the back of this mounted photograph is written in pencil in Russian, Rumiantsevskii Museum, formerly Pashkys' house. On the front of the photograph is printed, "The Public Museum in Moscow'.
Description: On the back of this photograph is written in pencil Lubianskaia Ploshchad'. On this photograph are several churches and telegraph wires; in the immediate foreground are pedestrians and in the centre is a fountain with horses and carts loaded with barrels. To the right are shops.
Description: On the back of this mounted photograph is written in pencil: Memorial to Pushkin, on Tverskom Boulevard opposite the Holy Monastery. This memorial has steps surrounded by a low chain railing and leading up to a tall plinth upon which stands a large statue of Pushkin.
Description: On the back of this mounted photograph is written in pencil: The well-known Iverskaia Chapel with the renowned school, "Holy Mother of Iverskaia". The assembly point of the best pick-pockets.
Description: On the back of this mounted photograph is written in pencil: triumphal gate [with words in brackets one of which is indecipherable and the others are according to the people.]
Description: On the back of this mounted photograph has been written in pencil: Bol'shoi Teatr. This is a view of the classical facade of the Bol'shoi Theatre. There are three seated persons and several rather fuzzy pedestrians and horses and carts.
Description: This long-bearded character is the same person as in AB/712P but in different dress. He is standing contritely with head bent and hands clasped.
Photograph of an unknown man in theatrical costume
Description: This clean-shaven man is photographed in a theatrical pose, in the same stage set as AB/713P. He points his right index finger sneeringly at somethig or someone in front of him beyond our view.
Description: This unknown woman is elaborately dressed in what may be national costume. She stands against an artificial rustic background and her right hand rests on the stump of a tree.
Description: This fair-haired young woman wears a velvet coat which she has draped into a rather daring décolleté. Her eyes are downcast in a pose for this studio portrait.
Description: This is the same woman as in AB/716aP. She is dressed in the same velvet coat, which this time is worn in a more modest fashion. She stares at something ahead of her, off camera.
Photograph of Hermann Winkelmann as Parsifal and Amalie Materna as Kundry in the Bayreuth Festival production
Description: This photograph is of the Bayreuth Festival production of "Parsifal" in 1901-02. Seated Parsifal holds his hands outstretched to Kundry's head as she kneels before him.
Photograph of Adolph Brodsky with a group of students
Description: Brodsky sits next to a woman [possibly his wife, Anna], and is seated in the middle of the front row of a large group of students, possibly on an outing to the country. Most of the young ladies wear hats. Brodsky himself holds his hat in his left hand between his knees. In the background is a steep cliff; there is rough ground in front of the group.
Description: This photograph was used in "The Strad" 1932. Brodsky smiles gently to the photographer. He is wearing a suit with waistcoat and a tie and shirt with wing collar.
Copy of a portrait in oils of Adolph Brodsky by William Cartledge
Description: On this photograph Brodsky has written: To Miss Taylor with best wishes for her future career, Adolph Brodsky. This is a platinum photographic print of the portrait in oils by William Cartledge of Adolph Brodsky, 1924. This copy of the portrait was made by T. Longworth Cooper, Sale. The original is currently housed at the RNCM.
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1903
Description: Elgar writes to Dr. Brodsky about the arrangements for the concert which will be for their own subscribers. Elgar is not satisfied with the proposed programme and suggests that it might stand thus: Tchaikovsky or Volkmann Quintet; then solo 'cello, solo violin, solo viola; then a Beethoven quartet, either op. 95, 127 or 130. This will do away with the extracts from Tchaikovsky since their people want the whole thing, not bits. Dated 17 Feb 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1904
Description: Business card with the following printed words "With many thanks for kind congratulations'. On the back Elgar has written in his own hand: "My love to you, Edward Elgar'. With accompanying envelope.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1905
Description: Elgar thanks the Brodskys for coming to see him the previous evening and expresses his appreciation of the sympathy of real artists. Dated 16 Nov 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1913
Description: Elgar writes a letter of warmest thanks to Brodsky for playing the Concerto. Elgar wished he could have been there and hopes one day to hear Brodsky playing. Dated 12 Dec 1913
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1918
Description: Elgar has written a string quartet and dedicated it to the Brodsky Quartet. He asks for news of Fuchs etc. Elgar had a severe operation to his throat early in the year and he and Lady Elgar came down to this cottage in the woods where he has rested and written. He also mentions his Quintet for 4 strings and piano. Dated 23 Dec 1918.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1919
Description: Elgar thanks Brodsky for his kind letter about the Sonata. [Sonata for violin and piano op. 22 in E minor]. He is glad that Brodsky likes it and hopes to hear him play it sometime. Elgar has photographic proofs of the quartet and will send an early copy to him. The Sonata and the Quintet will be given privately on Saturday afternoon the 26th. The manuscripts will be sent. Dated 17 Apr 1919.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1919
Description: Elgar is delighted that the Brodskys may be able to come [for the private hearing of the Sonata and the Quintet on Sat 26 April] and suggests that they stay with the Elgars since rooms in London are impossible. The music will be at the home of Elgar's friend Schuster in Westminster. Dated 19 Apr 1919.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1919
Description: Elgar is glad that Brodsky likes the idea of the quartet dedication which gives Elgar such pleasure. Mr. Reed's Quartet is playing it through before printing. Unlimited time is required for rehearsing the concerto so that its score comes off. Dated 5 May 1919.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1919
Description: Elgar has not yet been able to send "nice clean copies" of the Quartet to Brodsky as publication has been deferred because of N.C. Copyright. However he hopes to post a set to him that very day with his love and admiration. Dated 28 May 1919.
Autograph postcard signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1920
Description: Elgar thanks the Brodskys [for their seasonal greetings] and sends all good wishes for the New Year from himself and Lady Elgar. Dated 1 Jan 1920.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1924
Description: Elgar thanks the Brodskys for the beautiful account of Christmas Eve [one of Anna Brodksy's booklets, entitled 'Christmas Eve in Old Russia']. He sends his good wishes as ever to the Brodskys. It is dated 17 Dec 1924.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1925
Description: Elgar apologises to Brodsky for not being able to go over to Malvern the previous day to hear him play. Elgar has been quite ill with bronchitis and must be careful for some time to come. He had been looking forward to welcoming Brodsky to the old Concert Club and to shaking hands once more with a very dear friend and revered and beloved artist. Dated 5 Nov 1925.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1925
Description: Elgar thanks Mrs. Brodsky for her charming sketches which he values greatly. He is overwhelmed by her kind references to himself. Elgar often thinks of Brodsky's old spacious study and regrets that he, Elgar is so far away from the scene of happy music making. Dated 15 Nov 1925.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1926
Description: This is an official memorandum from Sir Edward Elgar, O.M., Master of the King's Musick, Lord Chamberlain's Office, St. James's Palace, S.W.1. Elgar has heard from Sir Hamilton Harty for whom he has the honour of conducting the concert on January 20th that Brodsky might play the Concerto. This would give great pleasure to Elgar. [Brodsky did emerge from retirement to play the Concerto on 20th January 1927, the year of Elgar's 70th birthday, at a Hallé concert with Elgar as conductor.]. Dated 17 Sep 1926.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1926
Description: Elgar thanks Brodsky for his kind letter. Elgar replies briefly. He thinks the reading was on the robust side and the last movement was perhaps fast. He looks forward to being with Brodsky. Dated 29 Nov 1926.
Typescript letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1927
Description: Elgar thanks the Brodskys for their good wishes and for the charming book "A Treasure". He sends his good wishes to them. Dated 14 Dec 1927.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1928
Description: Elgar apologises to the Brodskys about the telegram, quite a mistake on the part of the P.O. He sends his thanks and love to the dear Brodskys. In a P.S. overleaf, Elgar informs the Brodskys that his London address is still 37 St. James's Place, S.W.1 and in the country, Tiddington House, Stratford-on-Avon. Dated 6 Jun 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Edward Elgar to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: 1929
Description: Elgar writes an immediate letter of condolence to Mrs. Brodsky on the death of her husband, Adolph Brodsky [22 January 1929.]. He has sent the letter to the R. College of Music, Manchester, with "please forward at once" written on the bottom of the envelope. Dated 23 Jan 1929.
Autograph picture postcard signed from Edward Elgar to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Merz, Josef (fl.1900s-1920s); Benis, N. (fl.1900s-fl.1920s), concert director
Dates: 1914
Description: On the back of the telegram has been written: Elgar. Telephone Number 4771 Hampstead. In this telegram, Benis, Merz and Brodsky announce the success of the concert: Elgar, 2 Bach and 4 recalls. The Elgar refers to the Viennese premiere of the violin concerto, which took place on 5 January 1914. Dated 5 Jan 1914.
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer
Dates: undated
Description: Elgar has surscribed the mount: To my dear A. & A. Brodsky and signed his name. The photograph is in a decorated wooden frame. In this photograph, Elgar is pictured almost in profile with the left side of his face on view.
Autograph practice letter initialled from Anna Brodsky to Alice Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: c1912
Description: The Brodskys have just received a letter from Lady Elgar reporting that Sir Edward is unwell. The Brodskys hope that he will soon be quite well again. Mrs. Brodsky tells Lady Elgar that her husband plays or studies the Elgar Concerto every day. He adores the work and makes everyone who hears him play it love it. He played it last summer in the south of Russia. He is going to play it with the Hallé under Richter next season and will play it probably in Vienna in January 1914. Mrs Brodsky thanks Lady Elgar for her kind invitation to visit them in their new home [probably Severn House, 42 Netherhall Gardens, Hampstead, whither the Elgars moved on New Year's Day 1912.]
Autograph practice letter initialled from Anna Brodsky to Alice Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: undated
Description: On the back of the first sheet is the start of a copy in Anna Brodsky's hand of a letter to her from Alice Elgar. In this letter Lady Elgar thanks Anna Brodsky for sending her diary which recalls the happy evening. [The continuation of this letter is in AB/747]. Anna Brodsky thanks Lady Elgar for sending the photograph of Edward Elgar [AB/744] and for her letter with news of the symphony [first performance of the First Symphony in Manchester under Richter to whom it was dedicated, "true artist and friend", on 3 December 1908]. Anna recalls the happy days in Rome and mentions with sadness the poverty of Naples. They are going off to Russia in a month but will be back in September. Anna hopes that the symphony will soon be given here under Richter. In a P.S., Anna mentions that she is enclosing part of her diary.
Autograph practice letter initialled from Anna Brodsky to Miss Millar
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: undated
Description: On the back of this letter is the continuation of the copy of Alice Elgar's letter to Anna Brodsky, started in AB/746. Elgar himself is away but Lady Elgar hopes that they may all be together again. Perhaps the Brodskys could come and stay with the Elgars [at Plas Gwyn in Hereford]. Anna Brodsky writes of her sorrow on hearing of the death of Mrs. Waterhouse which will be a great loss for the club [The Royal Manchester College of Music Club]. She encloses a letter to be forwarded to Mr. Waterhouse when the time is fit.
Newscutting of a letter from Edvard Grieg to Edouard Colonne
Description: This letter was copied in the section "Kleines Feuilleton". It was sent to Frankfurter Zeitung by a friend of the newspaper and translated from French into German. Above the copy of the letter from Grieg to Colonne is a paragraph of explanation. The concert manager had invited Grieg to conduct one of the Colonne Concerts in Paris. Grieg thanks Colonne for his invitation to conduct one of the Colonne Concerts in Paris but regrets that after the outcome of the Dreyfus Affair he cannot come to France. Like all foreigners he is angry at how justice has been handled in France.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet in the Frankfurt Museum
Description: To this concert, the seventh chamber music evening of the Frankfurt Museum Society was invited the Brodsky Quartet from Manchester. The nationality and a brief biographical outline is given of each member. The Quartet played the Quartet in D major op.11 by Tchaikovsky, the second Quartet in F major op.41 by Robert Schumann and Beethoven's B major Quartet op.135. The performance is reviewed at length and special mention is made of Brodsky's playing in the Andante Cantabile in the Tchaikovsky. The Brodsky Quartet is compared favourably with quartets of the past, eg the Joachim and of the present, eg the Bohemian and the St. Petersburg. Dated 22 Dec 1906.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet in Frankfurt Concert Hall
Description: The article mentions that the Manchester Quartet from the great Lancashire cottonopolis is by no means English: it is a combination of 4 nations of which the second violin Herr Briggs is the only Englishman. A brief biographical outline is given of each member of the quartet.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet and others at Queen's College Musical Society
Description: This concert was given before a large audience in Queen's College [Belfast] by the Brodsky Quartet, Miss Eva McCandliss, singer, Miss L. Dobson, accompanist and Dr. Walker. Dated 25 Jan 1904.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet and others at Queen's College Musical Society
Description: There are 2 copies of this cutting one of which is the full length of the newspage. The date of the concert and its subsequent review is probably sometime in the first decade of the twentieth century. This article gives a detailed review of the concert given the previous evening by the Brodsky Quartet and Miss A.C. Kemp.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet and others
Description: The review begins by mentioning that this concert draws exclusively from works of von Bulow's three heroes: Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. Dated 19 Jan 1905; the concert was given on 18 Jan.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Hallé
Description: This Hallé Concert was conducted by Hans Richter. The soloist was Dr. Brodsky's pupil, Mr. Anton Maaskoff, on his first appearance at the Hallé Concerts. Dated 19 Nov 1909; the concert was given on 18 Nov.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Hallé
Creator: Langford, Samuel (1863-1927), music critic
Dates: 1909
Description: The Manchester Guardian review of this concert by Samuel Langford is AB/756 in this collection. Dated 19 Nov 1909; the concert was held on 18 Nov.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Hallé Orchestra conducted by Adolph Brodsky and Simon Speelman
Description: Although this cutting bears neither name nor date, it is probably from The Manchester Guardian and dates from the first decade of the century. Dr. Richter was ill and unable to conduct this Hallé concert, which was the last of the season.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet in Dublin
Creator: Royal Manchester College of Music (1893-1973)
Dates: [early 20th cent]
Description: This review is of the second public examination of the Royal Manchester College of Music at which a young pupil of Dr. Brodsky, Miss Lena Kontorovich, gave an outstanding performance of the first movement of Brahms's Violin Concerto. May be taken from the Manchester Guardian. Likely dates between 1905 and 1911, when Egon Petri taught at the RMCM.
Description: This article is illustrated with the reproduction of a drawing of Brodsky by H.P. Within Musical Notes by "Staccato" are two short articles: one about Adolph Brodsky and the other, a review of a concert given by the Brodsky "Quartette".
Newscutting of a review of the Royal Manchester College of Music Students' Open Practice
Description: No students are mentioned by name in this review: they are referred to as little boy, female student, etc. The first student mentioned is a little boy [Anton Maaskoff?] who played one of Rode's concertos from memory.
Newscutting of review of a concert given by the Hallé Orchestra
Description: This review is written by a critic who is identified only by the initials, H.T.P. The orchestra may be the Boston Symphony Orchestra which the conductor Carl Muck conducted from 1912. Carl Muck had also worked with the Boston Symphony Concerts from 1906 to 1908.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Hallé Orchestra conducted by Hans Richter
Description: According to the critic, the two items by British composers on the programme sounded "deplorably commonplace in comparison with the music immediately preceding and succeeding them." Mr. Plunket Greene sang with too much exaggeration. Dr. Brodsky played perfectly with a wonderful tone. The orchestral playing was not so satisfactory. The symphony was played "in the most perfunctory manner possible". The critic blames Dr. Richter for this poor performance.
Newscutting concerning amusing anecdotes by Anna Brodsky
Description: The headline for this article reads: "Dr. Richter dines with a clown'. Mrs Brodsky has written a new book entitled Father Nicholas and other short stories [available from Sherratt and Hughes, price six shillings and sixpence {33.5p.}, post free]. This contains reminiscences from her youth including the remarkable Russian priest, Father Nicholas. The article is dated 23 Mar 1923.
Newscutting of a review of Father Nicholas and other short stories by Anna Brodsky
Description: This very brief review of Anna Brodsky's latest book, Father Nicholas and other short stories [Sherratt and Hughes six shillings and sixpence {32.5p.}, post free] gives a very pleasant impression of this book which grips the attention. The article is dated 16 Apr 1923.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by the Hallé Orchestra conducted by Hans Richter
Description: This was the thirteenth performance of the Pathétique Symphony at the Hallé Concerts and the finest of them all. Dr. Richter conducted without a score. Brodsky played better than ever but the critic was not taken with the Lumb [Laub?] cadenzas. The Spohr was "delightfully phrased."
Newscutting of a review of Un Ballo in Maschera performed by the Royal Manchester College of Music
Description: Adolph Brodsky conducted a performance of Verdi's "Un Ballo in Maschera" on 15 March 1907. The reviewer of this article is identified only by the initials F.B.
Newscutting of a review of a concert given by Anton Maaskoff at the Wigmore Hall
Description: At this concert in the Wigmore Hall, Anton Maaskoff, one of the many brilliant violinists who studied with Adolph Brodsky in Manchester at the beginning of the century, played Brahms's G minor Sonata, Mozart's Concerto in E flat major and Novacek's Perpetuum Mobile which showed his brilliant technique. The critic considers Maaskoff to be a performer rather than an interpreter. Adolph Hallis was the accompanist.
Newscutting of a review of concert conducted by Oskar Nedbal
Description: The reviewer is identified only by the initials IUE. This was the sixth symphonic gathering of the Russian Musical Society. It began with Mozart's Jupiter Symphony, a punctilious performance which failed to catch the spirit of Mozart's music. Also on the programme were Dvorak's Scherzo-Capriccio, and a symphonic poem, Nochnoe shectvie [The night procession], a typical French work by the young French composer, Rabaud. The soloist was the violinist Adolph Brodsky, an artist who has been long known in Moscow and who taught for four years at the Moscow Coservatoire in the time of Rubinstein. Now for fifteen years he has been principal of the conservatoire in Manchester. Brodsky played the concerto dedicated to him by Tchaikovsky. The reviewer tells of how the concerto had originally been dedicated to Auer, but was first played in Vienna in 1881 by Adolph Brodsky, when the critic Hanslick said that the music stank. Brodsky wrote to Tchaikovsky that he had taken two years to master the concerto. At this concert he received tremendous applause and then played Tartini's Devil's Trill.
Newscutting of a report of the death of Adolph Brodsky
Description: This report of Brodsky's death has been cut from a local newspaper. It mentions that Brodsky died in a Manchester nursing home. He had had an operation on Christmas Day and another a couple of days before his death, which had been successful but he died from heart failure.
Description: This article was written by AJS. The lengthy article covers a wide spectrum of Brodsky's career: from one of the world's leading violinists who premiered the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto in Vienna to the humane musician who played "in the grim and unlovely district of Manchester whose name is Ancoats". Dated 29 Jan 1929.
Newscutting of a report of the appointment of R.J. Forbes as Principal of the RMCM
Description: The Council of the Royal Manchester College of Music unanimously resolved that Mr. R.J. Forbes should be appointed Principal of the College in succession to the late Dr. Brodsky. Mr. Forbes had been acting Principal.
Newscutting of a photograph of Adolph Brodsky and Edward Elgar
Description: The text below the photograph reads: Since Sir Edward Elgar last visited the city, Manchester has suffered the loss of Dr. Brodsky. Dated 26 Jan 1929.
Newscutting of a photograph of Adolph Brodsky and R.J. Forbes
Description: The caption below the photograph reads: Mr. R.J. Forbes [left], who has been appointed principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music in succession to the late Dr. Brodsky [right].
Newscutting of Alfred Barker's views on who will be the new conductor of the Hallé Orchestra
Description: Alfred Barker, a former pupil of Adolph Brodsky and the leader of the Hallé Orchestra, expresses his views on conductors for the next season of the Hallé Orchestra. Dated 26 March.
Newscutting of a photograph of a bust of Sir Hamilton Harty by Muriel Liddle
Creator: Forbes, Robert Jaffrey (1879-1958), conductor, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1939
Description: R.J. Forbes informs Mr. Leon Picard that the Royal Manchester College of Music will be sharing an exchange broadcast on the wireless [North Regional] with the Leipzig Conservatorium. Dated 12 Jun 1939.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: Novacek thanks his dear friend Brodsky for the 400 marks. He feels better now that he can have a year without cares. Hausen is considering the quartet for publication. The following day Novacek will play through Dayas's sonata with Busoni. Novacek sends greetings to the Brodskys and to Frau Picard.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: Novacek is very grateful for what Brodsky has sent. Novacek is having doubts about the end of the Adagio in his quartet. Novacek expresses appreciation of Brodsky's chamber music and friendship. He sends greetings to the Brodskys and to Frau Picard.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: This undated letter was written on a Tuesday. This is a very sad, begging letter to Adolph Brodsky from Ottokar Novacek who has fallen on hard times. Novacek wants to take a year off work to establish himself as a composer. He has sent his quartet to Hausen who has not replied. Novacek encloses the new conclusion to the Adagio – the old one was too sudden. Novacek concludes by sending greetings to the Brodskys and to Frau Picard.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: Novacek is deeply grateful to Brodsky whose letter came as a ray of sunshine. Novacek asks if he may send Brodsky's letter with the score to Hausen. Novacek will never forget Brodsky's tone in the Adagio. Ottokar requests that Brodsky returns the score quickly.
Autograph letter signed fom Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: This undated letter was written on a Sunday. Novacek thanks Brodsky for the sympathy and the telegram which brought him salvation. Novacek illustrates his letter with three quotations from his second quartet, op.10 in E flat major.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: Novacek is well and enjoying the beautiful village of Tusnad. He will be travelling to Leipzig in a month and wonders if Brodsky will be there. He does not have his address in Russia. Novacek has been working diligently and will soon finish a symphonic piece which he will show to Nikisch. Novacek is longing to hear Brodsky play. In a few days Novacek will be moving to Temervor.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: Novacek writes a begging letter requesting the five pounds a few days before the 1st [of November] since he has lost 20 marks in the most stupid way. Novacek plans to write many compositions this winter. Petri from Dresden admired the E flat major Quartet and Busoni will play his piano concerto, somewhat altered, at the Lisztverein in Vienna. Borgstrom is pleased with Novacek's third quartet, which he prefers to the E flat major.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: Novacek writes a very enthusiastic letter of thanks to Brodsky who has sent him good news about Novacek's first attempts [at composition?]. Novacek is overjoyed and writes at 2.30am [on a Thursday].
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: 1887
Description: Novacek has learned with some disbelief from Frau Busoni that Brodsky is delighted that Novacek is writing a new quartet. This has surprised Novacek since Brodsky had not wanted to see him recently and Novacek thought he had lost Brodsky's sympathy. If Brodsky heard the whole story, he would be less harsh in his judgement of Novacek's ingratitude. Novacek has sent the quartet to the jury of the Bonn Prize [2,000 marks]. As he was writing the quartet, Novacek kept hearing Brodsky play the piece to him, which was a form of plagiarism and if Novacek wins the prize, he ought to give half to Brodsky. With this letter Novacek sends a few Bulgarian folksongs not yet harmonised, sung only by the farmers and soldiers, some similar to Russian folk melodies. Dated 8 Dec 1887.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: 1898
Description: Novacek hopes that Brodsky has received his letter in Switzerland. He thanks him for his and for the eagerly awaited 100 marks. Novacek is distressed that he depends on Brodsky and not a millionaire for money. For this reason he has definitely decided to go back to New York and he awaits news from his letter daily. Although he has an aversion to America, he can earn a living and he wants to play the dear viola to the end of his life. He is about to go off to see Busoni. Dated 5 Sep 1898.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: 1898
Description: Novacek replies to Brosdsky's invitation to him to recuperate in England. He declines because of the English weather and the sea crossing, much though he would love to come. Petri played the quartet in Dresden on the 14th of this month: it was well reviewed although Petri was not quite satisfied with his colleagues. Novacek wonders if Brodsky has received the quartet in manuscript. He would like to dedicate it to Herr von Skadowsky in appreciation of his hospitality towards Novacek and also on account of his great love of art. Dated 23 Feb 1898.
Autograph letter signed from Ottokar Novacek to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Nováček, Ottokar Eugen (1866-1900), Composer and violinist
Dates: undated
Description: Novacek, who has been in Leipzig, thanks Brodsky for his letter. Novacek has sent his Suite to Dr. Abraham and hopes he will be more satisfied. Novacek has demanded pay three months in advance and will give Dr.Abraham everything he writes. Kapellmeister Weingartner will probably conduct one of Novacek's orchestral pieces in the Lisztverein. Novacek remarks that Brodsky is zig-zagging over Europe: Petersburg, Leipzig, Moscow, Berlin and hopes that it will not be too strenuous.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes most appreciatively of the Brodskys' friendship and invites them to Norway. She describes the beauties of nature: the smells and the song of birds and of the cuckoo. Dated 13 May 1890.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna Brodsky for her letter and the excellent photographs. She hopes Anna is enjoying her stay in Russia where her husband with Sascha will soon join her. The Griegs have had the von Herozgenbergs from Berlin as guests. Nina hopes to hear Novacek's Quartet should they come to Leipzig this winter but they will probably remain in Norway. Dated 26 Jun 1890.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes most appreciatively to Anna Brodsky of the Brodsky Quartet concert in Kopenhagen the previous evening when the Kopenhagen public gave them an ovation; such an event is rarely heard in Denmark. Nina expresses her fondness for Novacek and her sorrow at his illness. She apologises for her bad German. Dated 14 Mar 1891.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: This brief note from Nina Grieg informs Anna Brodsky that things are slowly becoming better and by the end of the week, they should be able to travel. Nina appeals most strongly to the Brodskys to visit them in Norway and to bring with them their "eldest son", Novacek. Dated 6 Apr 1891.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is anxious at not having heard from Anna Brodsky. Nina wonders when they are coming and if Novacek will be accompanying them. Now Nina has heard from Anna and realises that Anna's sister will also be coming. All will stay at the Griegs: when there is room in the heart there is room in the home. Nina expresses her sorrow that the Brodskys are going to America. Nina asks them to telegraph from Christiansand and Edvard adds a note of welcome to them all and the fiddle. Dated 13 Jun 1891.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: The Griegs are very upset that the Brodskys are postponing their visit to Norway and are also sad that they are going to America with Novacek and Sascha. Delius and Halter [of whom they have heard Sinding speak] will be visiting the Griegs in the middle of July. Dr Abraham will also come some time. The Griegs wish the Brodskys all the best and hope for a "gluckliches Wiedersehen" [a happy reunion]. Dated 27 Jun 1891.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina regrets that the Brodskys did not visit Norway during the wonderful summer. Nina can scarcely believe that the Brodskys are going so far away over the sea. She has heard from Fraulein Lund that both Sascha and Auguste will accompany them to America. Nina remarks about Anna's observations of relations between Novacek and Fraulein Lund whose father unfortunately is displeased. This winter the Griegs will remain in Bergen. Nina ends by wishing the Brodsky's a pleasant journey and a happy life and recalls the many happy hours in the old country. Dated 26 Sep 1891.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina Grieg is very sorry to hear that Adolph Brodsky has been very ill. Edvard now has rheumatism in both feet and for three weeks could scarcely walk from one chair to another. Now he is much better. He was invited to conduct his own works in Vienna but nothing will come of it. It is still winter and the weather is poison for rheumatism. Snow is still thick on the mountains and the trees are not yet opening their buds. Nina invites the Brodskys to Troldhaugen. She claims to be a stupid little housekeeper and despite her best intentions, things do not always go right. She implies that Anna is an efficient housekeeper. In a month Grieg will be going to England. Nina's parents and sisters will come to her but she finds life sad when Edvard is away. Edvard has been climbing mountains with his friend Frants Beyer. Nina sends greetings to Sinding and asks about his winter prospects with the Brodskys' help. Dated 9 Apr 1892.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her last letter and for the photograph of her husband, Adolph Brodsky with the dedication which has delighted the Griegs. Nina was so upset to go to Paul Klengel's in Kaiser Wilhelm Strasse when the Brodskys were no longer there. Concertmeister Prill is in the Brodskys' flat. Frau Prill is a Russian but quite different from other Russian ladies Nina has known. At the beginning of the month the second Peer Gynt Suite was played under Grieg and never before has he been so well received in Germany. The Griegs spent a few days with Dr. Abraham in Berlin to hear Sinding's new symphony which Dr. Abraham will print. In a P.S. scrawled sideways over the first page of the letter, Nina asks if Anna has heard or read of Miss Smyth's success with her Missa Solemnis in London. Dated 18 Feb 1893.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Just as she had decided to go to Kopenhagen when Edvard Grieg was on tour in England, Nina received Anna's letter and kind invitation to visit the Brodskys. Grieg will be in England for 5-6 weeks to find time for everything. Nina is so delighted to be seeing the Brodskys again: outwardly they may have changed but inwardly they are just the same. On 4th November Grieg conducts in "Philharmonie". Nina does not know when Grieg's Manchester concert is, but they can write later about dates and Nina's arrival. Nina is upset to hear that Anna has been to Kissingen and hopes that the waters have done their duty. Dated 3 Sep 1897.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes in great haste to catch Anna while she is still in Germany [taking the cure in Kissingen]. Nina makes overt remarks about Tchaikovsky's homosexuality. Nina still regards Tchaikovsky as the great artist and warm friend. The rest is his own private concern. Nina hopes that Anna is satisfied with her cure in Kissingen and wishes her a pleasant journey to Russia. Dated 25 Jul 1900.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: In this letter Nina Grieg writes to Anna Brodsky of God in whom she believes and of death which she does not fear. Anna has written on these philosophical matters to Nina. Recently Edvard has played the piano and Nina has sung a little at a concert in Kopenhagen. Edvard's legs are bothering him and he has to wear elastic stockings. Spring has not yet reached Kopenhagen. Dated 4 Apr 1901.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina recalls the the happy time spent with the Brodskys in Berlin and the play which should have ended with the third act when the Brodskys had to depart. Nina wishes the Brodskys well on their trip to Russia. Edvard is "a little poorly" but manages to write a few lines across one page of Nina's letter. Dated 2 Apr 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Edvard has been ill in bed with bronchitis and asthma. He is now slightly better and has taken a few steps out of the door but is very "unlustig" [not jolly] as Brahms said in his last winter in Vienna. Nina has little faith in doctors. Edvard has had dreadful nights but fortunately all this is over now, but will recur when Edvard is chilled. Nina rejoices that the Brodskys are in their new home [3 Laurel Mount, Bowdon] although their old one was very comfortable. The Griegs are delighted that Bjornson has won the Nobel prize and are not quite decided whether to go to the Bjornsons for Christmas. Nina sends warm Christmas wishes to the Brodskys. Dated 18 Dec 1903.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: From what Nina Grieg writes in this letter to Anna Brodsky, we understand that Anna Brodsky has been in Nancy with her sister Olga Picard who has been ill or has faced some misfortune, while Adolph Brodsky has been in Paris with "der stumme fisch", Leon, Olga's son, whom Nina recalls crawling on the floor in Leipzig. Over Christmas at the Bjornsons, Edvard over-indulged in rich food and champagne and was ill again. He is now having massage and has cancelled all engagements. Nina regrets that Busoni is going to America. Dated 23 Jan 1904.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Anna Brodsky has written to ask Edvard Grieg if she may write about him and the reply is yes: Anna may write what she likes about Edvard since he knows that she will only write what is true and noble. Nina looks forward to reading Anna's work. The weather is heavenly and Edvard sits in his hut on the fjord. Dated 10 Jun 1904.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina Grieg thanks Anna Brodsky most enthusiastically for her book [Recollections of a Russian home] which the Griegs are reading with great interest. The Griegs send greetings for Christmas and the New Year. Dated 21 Dec 1904.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Some notes in Russian have been written in Anna's hand round the edges of this letter. Nina writes most appreciatively of Anna Brodsky's book [Recollections of a Russian home] which she read the previous day. Nina wonders why Anna has called it "Recollections of a Russian home" when so little of it was in Russia. Nina also thanks Anna for the automobile photograph. Dated 4 Jan 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for the two cards from Venice. Things are going badly with the Griegs: Edvard has been ill ever since they went to Kopenhagen just before the New Year. At first he had bronchitis and influenza, and now his blood is out of order and he sleeps and hallucinates. He likes most sitting with Nina and talking about his condition. Dated 13 Apr 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina hopes that Edvard's strength will return when summer and the warm weather come. She enquires about Anna's sister Olga and wonders what has become of her son, the silent fish [Leon Picard]. Dated 19 Apr 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Although Nina has not written to Anna the Brodskys are always in the Griegs' thoughts and they often speak of them. Nina is sad that the Brodskys did not come to Norway this summer especially as June was so wonderful. Nina mentions that the Brodskys were in Marienbad. The Griegs have been quite well and Edvard has been able to work although he does complain about becoming old. He is very interested in the political events and they hope that a war can be avoided. Nina also mentions the dreadful happenings in Riga. Dated 24 Aug 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is anxious at not having heard from Anna for some time: no letter from Blackpool. There was no music in Bergen during the summer. Nina is rather upset about the political situation in Norway but does not want a republic and, were she more fluent in German, she would expand upon the politics. In the meantime they will remain in Kristiania and in the New Year intend to go to Europe to fulfil Edvard's engagements in Warsaw and London. Edvard has been much better in the summer and autumn than he has for a long time. Nina hopes that it will be possible to meet the Brodskys. Dated 8 Oct 1905.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina regrets that Anna has not received the letters written in October and November [see AB/813 written on 8 October 1905]. Nina is anxious to tell Anna how deeply she feels for Anna's fatherland and wishes Anna would persuade her sister [presumably Olga] to move to England but Nina realises that Olga's views will be higher than her own personal safety. The Norwegians have also had a trying time but now they are free and they are pleaed with their king and queen, although the latter is "a little shy and English stiff". Nina hopes that the plans to meet the Brodskys will come to pass. The Griegs are enjoying the biography of Tchaikovsky and finding it very touching. Dated 25 Jan 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her last letter with a warm welcome. Nina wonders if Anna will come to the concert in London. Edvard refused to write the Cantata for the Coronation and they did not go to the Coronation. They have been to Warsaw where a bomb went off in their faces. At the beginning of April they have planned to go to Prague and Amsterdam for concerts and then to move on to England. Nina has misgivings that this may be too much for Edvard. Dated 24 Mar 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina Grieg regrets that Adolph Brodsky has been ill. Edvard is well and the concerts in Prague and Amsterdam have been accomplished. The Griegs hope to go on to London on the 10th for concerts on 17th and 26th [May]. They will be staying at Mr. Edgar Speyer, 46 Grosvenor Street and by some means or other they must meet. Dated 3 Mar 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has made a mistake with the London concert dates: the last London concert is the 24th not the 26th May. Edvard would prefer the Brodskys to come to the first concert. Dated 9 May 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina Grieg writes that the concert will be at 3pm and hopes that the Brodskys will still be able to come. After the concert at 7.30pm the Griegs are invited to a great Norwegian celebration [for their day of liberation] where Nansen will be presiding. How lovely if the Brodskys could be there; the Griegs would ensure that they were invited. The concert tickets are being sent under separate cover. Dated 14 May 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina Grieg writes with great joy that they have seen the Brodskys but regrets that it was so very short. They will not be able to visit the Brodskys this time but are hoping to have the Brodskys in Norway at the end of July, if not earlier. The Oxford story is on 31 May [Edvard received an honorary doctorate from the University of Oxford]. Edvard is very well but they are looking forward to freeedom at the end of the concert tour. Dated 23 May 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Creator: Grieg, Edvard Hagerup (1843-1907), Composer, Pianist, Conductor
Dates: 1906
Description: Nina writes a letter of welcome to the Brodskys. Edvard has been sleepless and breathless, but is better now. They are going to spend a few days in Kristiania and then return over the mountains to their homeland to await the Brodskys. Dated 7 Jun 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes most enthusiastically about the Brodskys' visit and how much they are missing them. Nina thanks Anna for her letter from Kristiania and Kopenhagen, for the jolly card from Holmenkollen and for the splendid photographs from that happy day at Troldhaugen. Nina is delighted that they had beautiful weather for their stay. Anna Brodsky must have written complimentary remarks about Halvorsen which Nina certainly endorses and Annie [Halvorsen's wife] is also nice, especially when she is keen on people, as is the case with the Brodskys. The Brodskys must also have met Sinding. The weather is now dreadful: grey sky and rain. Edvard is quite well and goes to his hut to work.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Greig to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes to Anna from Troldhaugen. Nina thanks the Brodskys for their letters and expresses her delight that the photographs have turned out so well. Nina's sister Antonie, known as Tony which Nina spells "Tonny", has come out well as have Edvard and Brodsky as they say "Skol". Nina mentions the Brodskys' good impression of Halvorsen who is as he has always been: a genuine musician, even if he does not like Schumann. Sinding cannot stand Mozart but poor Sinding is not happy. Brodsky should not lose too much weight suddenly as that is dangerous. The Griegs intend to go by the same route as the Brodskys to Kristiania on 22 September. The letter is dated 12 Sep 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has been delighted to receive Anna's letter describing her daily life: now Nina can picture Anna walking her little dog when the three violins become too much. Nina mentions the two children [Tony Maaskoff and Alfred Barker] who made such a good impression. Anna puts them on the right track with her calm, her clear head and her goodness. Nina was very sad to leave her sister, Tonny, but Nina writes to her every two days when they are away. Tonny sends her kindest regards to the Brodskys. Dated 9 Oct 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes of the happy evening hours, the loveliest time of the whole day, when they read alone or aloud and then always go to bed too late since they never want to bring the evening to an end. Edvard is reading "Briefwechsel zwischen Joh. Brahms und Heinrich und Elisabet von Herzogenberg" [Correspondence between Johannes Brahms and Heinrich and Elisabet von Herzogenberg], from which he now and again reads extracts. Nina recalls the first meeting with the Herzogenbergs [who were the Brodskys' neighbours for part of their time in Leipzig] in the foyer of the old Gewandhaus; they were facing a bright future together but how he suffered before death [Herzogenberg died after a long illness in 1900]. Heinrich von Herzogenberg was indeed a composer but Lisel [Elisabeth] was very gifted. Nina felt overawed in her presence just as she had felt when she ought to have been sitting between Brahms and Tchaikovsky chez the Brodskys. Elisabeth knew and understood eveything. Anna has told Nina that her sister does not have the means to live comfortably and wonders if Olga has lost her money. The Halvorsens have been having problems: little Rolf has come out of hospital after six or seven weeks. If the other two children remain healthy, they should have a happy Christmas. Dated 14 Dec 1906.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes that Edvard has terrible influenza but fortunately Nina had it first and is able to look after him. They plan to travel in March. Nina believes that Kristiania is an absolutely unhealthy town, lying low at the end of the fjord with many hills and mists. It has been a remarkable winter in Europe: bitterly cold in the south. Nina was absolutely delighted to hear the Brodsky Quartet play Edvard's quartet. Next week Joh. Wolff will play Sinding's concerto which Nina has never heard. In the middle of February, the Hallés come and at the beginning of March, Thibaud. Nina looks forward to seeing Wilma [Hallé] and hopes she is still the same. Dated 30 Jan 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina reports that Olga Neruda and her sister, Lady Hallé, are in Kristiania; they should have come to the Griegs' that day but they will be playing Brahms, the Chaconne and all other possible things the following evening. The Griegs are overjoyed that the Brodsky Quartet has played Edvard's quartet. An Italian violinist, Armida Senatra, has given a few concerts but the Griegs have not heard her. Nina is delighted that the children [Tony Maaskoff and Alfred Barker] have written. The Griegs intend to leave Kristiania in the first half of March. Edvard has a concert in Kopenhagen; then Munich on 6th April, Berlin 12th and 14th, and finally Kiel on 26th. Nina is anxious about whether Edvard can cope with so much. Annie Halvorsen has had dreadful influenza. Nina is tired of the snow and ice. Dated 15 Feb 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: This is a letter of admiration for Anna who is forming a club and can now speak in public for her native land. The Griegs are very happy to give their names to the club. Edvard has a play through the following day and the concert is on next Thursday. Edvard is keeping quite well. After the concert, they go on to Berlin and Munich. Nina wishes they were going to England to see the Brodskys. Dated 15 Mar 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina received Anna Brodsky's letter just as the Griegs were leaving Kopenhagen. Siloti has invited Edvard to Russia several times but the political conditions are too sad for Edvard to accept. As one ages, one is not so energetic and strong and one gradually loses strength to throw oneself into new and strange conditions. On the day after the next day the Griegs go off to Munich where Edvard will be conducting on 6th April; they must return immediately for concerts on the 12th and 14th. Edvard is practising his concerto with a young Norwegian, Halfdan Cleve, who will play in both concerts. In Kopenhagen, Edvard has been very well received with flowers and laurel wreaths; the orchestra played excellently. Nina's sister Tonny was with them in Kopenhagen and returned to Norway the day they also left Kopenhagen. Dated 30 Mar 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her letter and is delighted that their names can be used for a good purpose [the Royal Manchester College of Music Club]. Nina hopes that Anna is now rid of her influenza. Edvard has been taking Finsen's electric light baths, as advised, but has stopped because of slight bronchitis. He was much better when he was in Germany and having rehearsals and concerts daily. They are longing to be at Troldhaugen and hope to be in their homeland in 3 or 4 weeks. Dated 20 May 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina Grieg thanks Anna Brodsky for her last two letters and is glad that everything is in order: the Brodsky Quartet plays and Brodsky and Edvard play the sonata, probably the G major, together. [These plans are for a forthcoming concert]. Nina cannot say how much she is looking forward to being with the Brodskys in Leeds [Edvard had promised to take part in the Leeds Music Festival to be held in Septmber 1907]. The Griegs have received a kind invitation from Mrs. Briggs [mother of Christopher Rawdon Briggs, second violin in the Brodsky Quartet] to stay at her house where it will be peaceful: there will be no company. Nina asks Anna about the Briggs family; she knows that Mrs. Briggs was recently widowed. Edvard is better. They remained so long in Skodsborg to consolidate the cure. The "Lichtbaderkur" [electric light baths cure] was too strong and Edvard was getting worse and worse in Kopenhagen. The sun bathing, hot and cold water and massage have helped Edvard: he can now sleep and is much calmer. Nina believes that Tony [Anton Maaskoff] has played splendidly and sends greetings to him and to Alfy [Alfred Barker]. Nina adds that it was wonderful that Anna can speak and move hearts about her poor fatherland. Dated 10 Jun 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina smiles when she hears that Anna keeps all her old letters to read them through again: Nina considers them to be unworthy of such attention. Nina has been delighted to hear the Brodsky Quartet with three other members, in Kopenhagen but regrets that Anna was not there, and recalls Novacek and his viola. The electric light baths in Kopenhagen proved to be too strong for Edvard and then they tried a sanatorium on the Danish coast where he improved sufficiently to undertake the journey. A good friend, Senator Nearius from Finland accompanied them and was a great help to Nina when Edvard took ill in Valdres. He also accompanied the Griegs to Troldhaugen and remained with them for 5-6 days - a good guest. Nina's sister-in-law, Elisabeth Grieg, arrived the day Nina wrote this letter and next they expect the Røntgens and Percy Grainger. Nina ends with best wishes to the Brodskys for the summer and enquires about relatives and the children, Tony and Alfi [Anton Maaskoff and Alfred Barker]. Dated 12 Jul 1907.
Description: The telegram reads thus: To Professor Brodsky, Musical College, Manchester. After few days Illness Edvard died Quietly this night. Nina. Dated 4 Sep 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina Grieg writes most appreciatively of the Brodskys' friendship and her deep gratitude that "lieber Brodsky" came to Edvard's funeral. She is pleased that the concert will take place: Brodsky will play the quartet and the sonata. Nina does not want to go herself but asks the Brodskys to tell her all about it afterwards. Her sisters-in-law have made plans for her: the three of them will go to Kristiania on Monday and Nina will go to a friend, Frau Badil Neergard, in Denmark. While Nina is there, the sisters-in-law will come to Kopenhagen to look for a furnished flat for all four to spend the winter. Tonny will join them later when she has closed the old home. Nina's old mother died the day after Edvard's funeral. Nina mentions how well Brodsky wrote of the funeral. Nina is still receiving many letters each day. Dated 21 Sep 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is delighted to have Anna's letter which she had been longing for. Percy Grainger's mother sent a mass of press cuttings of reviews after the Grieg concert: many are satisfied but the quartet has been criticised: "its tricky mannerism and its thin little pipe of romance". This has distressed Nina who does not believe that Edvard's creations are of only fleeting value and that he has lived in vain. Percy has written to her from Blackburn: "it was such a joy to meet dear, kind Brodsky and to play with him." Nina hopes that Brodsky feels the same about Percy. He played the piano concerto wonderfully in Kopenhagen. Anna has invited Nina to stay and Nina may consider a visit to England to the Brodskys and the Graingers in the New Year. She has a pleasant flat with her sister and sisters-in-law, in the same hotel where she always stayed with Edvard. She again expresses her appreciation that Brodsky came to Bergen for the funeral. Dated 1 Nov 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina mentions that the Quartet was played the previous evening in Manchester and wishes that she had been there. The Sevcik Quartet from Bohemia was recently in Kopenhagen and played Edvard's Quartet very well, but not rhythmic nor personal enough; the Romance was much too slow. Anna has been giving Nina her attitude towards critics. Nina does not dwell too much on criticism but is sorry that the English press always so much in his favour should diminish him so soon after his death. At Nina's suggestion, Røntgen has taken Edvard's entire musical legacy to Amsterdam to edit it. There are two books of songs and a trio movement. Eventually it will be published by Peters: Mr. Hinrichsen is very pleased with it. His final work, four old Norwegian psalms for baritone solo with choir [Opus 74], is amongst his best work and he died in his artistic power. Dated 13 Nov 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Anna should have heard from Nina more often this autumn and winter but Nina has had boundless correspondence and each day Nina and Røntgen have to write about Edvard's posthumous works. Nina has sent the songs to Mr. Hinrichsen and in the last half of January Røntgen will come to Kopenhagen and will give a concert of what he has saved of Edvard's sketches i.e. what was ready: 2 quartet movements, 1 trio movement, 3 piano pieces and 11 songs. Nina knew of the lieder and had often sung them with Edvard; she also knew of the existence of the chamber music but had never heard it. It was always Nina's principle not to disturb Edvard's creativity with her questions. Nina expresses great appreciation of the friendship with the Brodskys and sends them Christmas and New Year greetings. Dated 12 Dec 1907.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her tale and wonders how long Anna's literary talent has been dormant. Nina has had a good Christmas and New Year though not quite so peaceful as she would have wished. As a Christmas present, Røntgen has sent Nina Edvard's two quartet movements arranged for four hands which Nina has played with a young nephew of Niels W. Gade: a melancholy joy. On Monday they return to Kopenhagen [Hotel Bristol]. Dated 3 Jan 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina apologises for not writing to Anna. Nina has been very moved at the love and respect which the whole world has for Edvard. She thinks it remarkable that the English people have so much respect for art and artists. The concert with Edvard's posthumous works was on 22 January and was a great success: the two quartet movements were best and after rapturous applause, the second movement was repeated. Hinrichsen has allowed Røntgen to repeat the programme in Kristiania, a Grieg memorial in March. How wonderful if the Brodsky Quartet could play the quartet pieces, but probably not this season. Nina does not have the courage to make the journey to England this winter. She also mentions that the Halvorsens and Hinrichsen came to the Grieg concert. Dated 7 Feb 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her last letter. Røntgen has already read the corrections to the quartet pieces and sent them back to Hinrichsen: they will soon be published. When Nina receives them from Hinrichsen, she will immediately send the Brodskys a copy. Nina asks if Anna has heard the name Emil Horneman. He was an outstanding Danish composer, a friend of Edvard's who had been a student with him at the Leipzig Conservatoire. He died two years ago. He wrote an opera called Aladdin which was produced in Kopenhagen when Dr. Richter was there. Horneman's widow is now in financial straits and has come to Nina with the request that she write to Dr. Richter to ask for a few good words about the opera. Nina wonders if she would receive a reply from Richter and wants Anna to hurry. It is now half a year since Edward died and Nina feels more and more wretched but her heart warms when she thinks that dear Brodsky was there and saw him. Nina mentions that Siloti is at the Brodskys and adds that she has received a beautiful photograph of Tchaikovsky from Anna's niece. Dated 4 Mar 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes most appreciatively of the Brodskys' friendship and is delighted that dear Brodsky will be happy to have Edvard's pen, which Nina has put safely in the chest. Nina suggests a "little trip" to Troldhaugen to collect the pen. The following week Nina and her sister plan to go to Kristiansand and Neergard and his wife will visit Nina for a few weeks. These are the friends in Fuglsang where Nina spent the autumn until Christmas and then Easter. Percy Grainger is on tour in Australia and will return next year in January. Nina adds in a postscript that Halvorsen was enchanted by the Grieg concert in Paris which was very successful. Dated 13 May 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is delighted to have heard from Anna and is relieved to know that the Brodskys are back in England after their visit to Russia. Anna's letter arrived as they were preparing to leave Kristiania where they had spent a few weeks to hear the concert of Edvard's posthumous works and "Olav Trygvason" performed on stage. Halvorsen played in the quartet and conducted "Olav Trygvason" of which both Edvard and Bjornson unfortunately completed only the first act. The two quartet movements have already been published and Nina has asked Mr. Hinrichsen to send them immediately to Brodsky. Røntgen has also prepared the last two movements and they should sound fine: the Andante is entirely Edvard's apart from the final bars but the Finale has only the theme from Edvard and the rest by Røntgen. In the summer Nina played the two movements with Røntgen in an arrangement for four hands. Now she is at the Neergards' in the country, with park, fields and woods. The Neergards, husband aged seventy, wife aged forty, are very fine people. The thought of travelling without Edvard tears Nina's heart in two. Halvorsen has recently written a violin concerto, which has not yet been printed. Nina gives the full address of where she is staying: Gutshesitzer V. Neergard, Fuglsang, Nykjabing, Falster, Denmark. Dated 14 Oct 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks the Brodskys for their letters and invitations to visit them. She would love to go but has a terrible fear of the journey. She never feels so lonely, so helpless and so forsaken as when she sits in the train. She thinks of the many, many happy years when they travelled so happily together and now! She agrees that the two quartet movements are pretty. She mentions that Røntgen completed the last two movements from Edvard's sketches. All four movements were played at the Private Chamber Music Society to great acclaim. Edvard's sketches are so holy to Nina that she could say anything to Røntgen. At Christmas Nina will go to Fuglsang. Dated 6 Dec 1908.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has been longing to hear from Anna but knows that the Brodskys are still her friends although she has heard nothing from them for a long time. Nina philosophises about being alone: but she has nothing to rue; love was all she had for Edvard. Antonie [Tony] and Nina have spent a few months in Kristiania, in exceptionally good accommodation. Nina has been giving lessons and feels she ought to keep up the tradition of Edvard's lieder. Nina has very few friends in Kristiania: both Nina and Edvard always felt Kristiania was very cold to them, but it is beautiful in winter with much snow and high skies. Frants Berger is there: he has given much help to Mr. Finck in America with a large biography of Grieg. Nina delights that Tony [Maaskoff] has become such a fine artist. Dated 7 Mar 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina Grieg writes before leaving Kristiania in 10 to 12 days. She is relieved that the Brodskys are well again. There is not much to be heard in Kristiania but Nina plays the piano now and again and has had many pupils. She is going to the Beyers in Bergen for 2 or 3 weeks. Troldhaugen will remain closed this summer. In the middle of June she will go to the Neergards at Fuglsang and then accompany them to Skagon at the sea. She thinks how wonderful the students must be to perform Gluck's Iphigenie in Aulis [In the spring of 1909 the RMCM students gave a costume performance at the Gaiety Theatre, Manchester.] Halvorsen has given a performance of Madame Butterfly. He has been delighted with the last two movements of Grieg's quartet. Dated 16 May 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks the Brodskys most enthusiastically after staying with them in Bowdon. Tony [Antonie] chatted about the Brodskys the whole time and the journey passed quickly. Mrs. Grainger and Miss Stockmarr were at the station and there Tony and Nina had to part. Mrs. Grainger and Percy are "awfully good" to Nina, but she is a little sad but does her best not to show it. Dated 22 Oct 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: This is a rather sentimental letter from Nina Grieg before embarking the following day. She is very touched that Brodsky himself has written to her and is delighted with the photographs, on one of which is dear little Porcupine and sweet little Jimmy [the former was Anna's little dog; the latter a maid?]. Nina heard Busoni play the Mozart G minor Concerto and recommends that Anna should hear him again. Percy Grainger has been very kind and played her most beautiful music including some new. Nina has visited the Woods and has revised her opinion of Mrs. Wood, who is very warm and also a Russian. Dated 31 Oct 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her last greeting with the card from Leipzig and for the little "Evening Prayer" which she asks if Anna has written correctly. Nina then quotes from a poem translated into German which bears the same sentiments. The journey was really fine for the time of year: a calm sea and a prosperous voyage. They had intended to go straight to Kopenhagen but their friends had not wanted them to go. Nina speaks of Bowdon and Anna's little dog. She mentions that the Brodsky quartet will be playing the entire quartet [Grieg's] on 1 December and wishes she could be in the audience. In a postscript Nina sends greetings to "die kleine Kantorowitsch" [Helen Kantorowitsch]. Dated 6 Nov 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes to Anna about beautiful, peaceful unforgettable Bowdon and the happy time spent there with the Brodskys. She complains about the unpeaceful nature of life in this smallish town. The Norwegians are anxiously awaiting to hear of the death of Bjornson in Paris. A few days ago the artist Otto Sinding, brother of Christian, died in Munich and the Danish artist Krager [one of whose pictures hung where the Griegs used to play and sing] has also died. Nina is delighted that Tony Maaskoff has played so well. Henry Wood also spoke well of him. Nina asks how long the Brodskys will be spending in Russia. Dated 25 Nov 1909.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina wonders if the Brodskys will be able to come to Troldhaugen. Bergen is upside down this summer because of a sporting event which is bringing many people. It is 23-24 degrees C. in the shade. It was very hard to come back to Troldhaugen and she came just after Bjornson's interment. Halvorsen conducted Edvard's funeral music. Halvorsen's wife was very ill after the birth of his young son but is now at home again. The baby is a little giant. Dated 15 May 1910.
Autograph letter signed frrom Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has been very moved by a loving and affectionate letter from Anna. The Graingers have also invited Nina to visit in the New Year. It was paradise at the Brodskys' home but Nina is back on earth now. She would like the Brodskys to come to Troldhaugen this summer. Johanne Stockmarr will soon be back from England and will bring news of the Brodskys but goes off almost immediately on a tour of Denmark. Nina would love to hear the Richter Brodsky concerts. She wonders what Casals will play. In a postcript Nina asks if Anna has now read "My first success" by Edvard. Dated 30 Oct 1910.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is very impressed that Anna has been able to give a lecture on Tolstoy, the great idealist of her fatherland. For a few weeks a pianist, Ignacy Friedman, [Polish pianist and composer, 1882-1948] with an insurpassable technique, was here and Nina overheard him remark that Brodsky was going to Berlin to a post he has been offered. Later Nina questioned him alone and received the impression that he was not quite so sure of his facts. Nina asks Anna to write to her about it. She often thinks of "the remarkable" Jimmy, of Bowdon , of the Richters and of the unforgettable time at the Brodskys' "cosy house". Nina and her sister Antonie intend to remain in Kopenhagen until the middle of April, then go to Kristiania and after a fortnight, go on to Bergen and spend as long as possible at Troldhaugen in the summmer. She has heard that Olga Neruda wanted to have her college post back. Dated 12 Feb 1911.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes a very warm letter of thanks to the Brodskys for their wonderful hospitality to Nina and her sister Antonie. Fraulein Stockmarr met them at the station and there were flowers and fruit in their rooms. The previous day their hostess had invited Lady Wood, Mrs. Newman et al. to tea. They are having a busy time with invitations. Antonie writes in English her appreciation of the Brodskys' warm hospitality, never to be forgotten. Dated 30 Oct 1912.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes to Anna that she has just heard in the "Palmgarten" [Palm court] of the hotel Tchaikovsky's Capriccio Italien which she did not know: she would like to know everything the great noble Russian wrote. Nina does have anxieties and feels that the sword of Damacles is hanging over their heads but then she has more peaceful thoughts and sees the Brodskys sitting in the dining room with Dickens and the dear pipe: Nina then thanks God for the Brodskys and for everything beautiful, fine, noble and great in the world and for everything immortal. Spring has not yet come although the little blue and white anemones have already been long in the wood. Nina will stay in Kopenhagen until the middle of May and then after a few days in Kristiania, on once more to Troldhaugen. "Peer Gynt" is now on at the King's Theatre and each performance is a sell-out. Edvard's music sounds quite enchanting. In a postscript Nina remarks that "kleine Toni" [Anton Maaskoff] has gone to Buenos Ayres. Dated 24 Apr 1913.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is delighted to have heard from Anna and appreciates the invitation to visit the Brodskys for a third time. Nina hints at Tchaikovsky's homosexuality. In Kopenhagen he has many warm and charmed followers. He is often played at the King's Theatre and "Onegin" has been promised for this winter. "Peer Gynt" continues to full houses. 18-19 May they will go to Kristiania, stay there for 5-6 days to see the sisters-in-law and then, for the sixth time since Edvard's death, will visit the old home. In a postscript, Nina mentions Anna's dear sister [Olga Picard, née Skadowsky] and how pleasant that she spent the Easter days with her "stummen Fisch" [her son, Leon Picard]. Dated 9 May 1913.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is delighted to have heard again from the Brodskys and to hear that Brodsky travels, plays magnificently and receives laurel wreaths. They are hoping to come to the Brodskys at the end of April and are looking forward to seeing the Brodskys and Bowdon again, but Nina pleads with Anna to let Tonny live in the neighbourhood this time. Nina is pleased that Alfi [Alfred Barker] is now the leader. The Grieg evenings have been going well: from one evening came three full houses and Kristiania wanted the same and next week Nina, Stockmarrr and Lendrop are going there to give two Grieg evenings, which will keep the tradition alive at least for another generation. "Peer Gynt" has not yet been performed at the King's Playhouse in Berlin because it is on at the Lessing. In a postscript Nina mentions that on the day of writing a letter arrived for Edvard from Cologne. Dated 4 Feb 1914.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes joyfully that the Brodskys are now safely back in Bowdon after their internment. Nina was one of the artists who signed the petition for their release. Niger, Anna's little dog, actually recognised them after so long. Nina pictures the Brodskys resuming their activities. Meanwhile Nina and her sister have returned to Troldhaugen, where they found their servants all ready for their return but it is still snowing every day and freezing in the night: there is no spring. Dated 15 May 1915.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has just celebrated her seventieth birthday and received 200 telgrams, half as many letters and many presents including an epergne from 50 ladies in Kristiania, for all of which Nina has had to write thanks. The day was spent quietly at Fuglsang with Badil Neergard. She refused a festival in her honour in Kopenhagen. Friends came over for the day and night to Lolland from Kopenhagen and there was music in the evening. Nina played Edvard's C minor sonata with a Danish violinist, Miss Breuning Storm. Nina mentions how gifted Edvard believed Delius to be. He and his wife came to Troldhaugen last summer. Dated 12 Dec 1915.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes sadly of the present cruelly earnest life and of the happy times in the past. Recently she has chatted with Olga Neruda and they recalled the wonderful evening when Brodsky and Edvard played the C minor together. Dayas was also there. Olga Neruda could not remain in London and Nina does not think it will suit Olga here, "a little difficult as she is herself". Nina is longing to be with the Brodskys by the fire and wonders if they will ever meet again; she recalls Edvard's words: "what happens is to our best". R.S. [Richard Strauss?] has been there and came to see Nina but she does not worship him as others do. Dated 7 Mar 1917.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: In this letter Nina rejoices with Anna at the Russian Revolution. She wishes Edvard were alive to see it but is glad he does not see all the suffering. Nina is looking forward to peace and to a happy life in art and science. "Music must be international". Nikisch is conducting now in Kopenhagen. Tonny has been busy with a reading class for the Russians. Nina and her sister are going to their friend in Fuglsang for a fortnight and then going to Norway, but not to Troldhaugen, in the middle of June. Dated 17 May 1917.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her last letter and for the precious friendship which Nina increasingly values. They have been in Norway for more than a month: first three weeks in Kristiania and now to take some sea baths. Later they intend to go to the mountains nearer to Bergen. A statue of Grieg is to be unveiled on 24 August: Nina has chosen the Norwegian artist [Ingebricht Vik] to do it [not Vigeland, whom Grieg disliked]. Nina expresses great sorrow that the world has suffering eveywhere. Dated 15 Jul 1917.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina apologises for not writing but she has been travelling around Norway and had wanted to send a picture of Edvard's statue which is "just as he walked among us, simple and natural". The statue was unveiled on 4 September, the day of Grieg's death ten years ago. It was a great day of celebration with flowers and flags on all houses. At 6 o'clock there was dinner for 60 people and in the evening was a Grieg concert at the theatre. The Grieg fund now has much money and can be used to raise musical standards. Halvorsen's eldest daughter, Ase, has married a Russian whose possessions are in Moscow. Dated 28 Sep 1917.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has been acting as an intermediary between the Brodskys and Mr. Benis whose letters have been failing to reach their destinations. Nina has written to Mr. Benis and received a card from him written on 17 November. She tries to put their anxiety about each other at rest. Nina and Tonny are on the Neergard's estate where everything is quiet and harmonious with woods, canals and swans but the papers bring news of all the wicked things each day. In a postscript Nina mentions that Ase Halvorsen Koenig "is more than happy" and they have promised Halvorsen not to return to Russia until after the war. Dated 21 Dec 1917.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has at last received a letter from Mr. Benis as heralded in his telegram. He and all their friends want to know that the Brodskys are safe, well and happy and that they will see them soon. Nina has met Rachmaninov and found him most noble and sympathetic. He played a "very interesting concerto by himself". He has hired a villa near Kopenhagen where he lives with his wife and two daughters. Dated 17 Feb 1918.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her two letters and is glad to know that the Brodskys are safe and well. Anna has been very anxious about her sister [Olga Skadowsky] to whom Nina has written and will send the answer as soon as it comes. Nina grieves for Anna's native land. Nina and her sister are not going to Norway this year as there is so little food there. They will remain in Denmark and try to find a place in the country for a couple of months and then go to Fuglsang as usual. Nina's eldest sister-in-law Benedicte Grieg died in the spring and the younger sister-in-law is coming down. Dated 11 May 1918.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is delighted to have Anna's letter and to know that they are well and safe. The Brodskys are more optimistic about the peace settlements than Nina who is rather negative about world peace. Nina wishes Russia could be rid of the Bolsheviks. Now for Nina's bad news: she must sell Troldhaugen which she can no longer afford and which will be a burden from her shoulders. They must take Edvard's ashes from the mountain and find some beautiful place for them. In a postscript, Nina mentions that Rachmaninov is now in America with his whole family. Dated 11 Dec 1918.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: This letter may have been written in the winter of 1910, 1911 or 1913 when Nina wintered at the Hotel d'Angleterre in Kopenhagen. She should have written earlier but she had wanted to chat with Johanne Stockmarre [who sang at a concert in Manchester in October 1909] but she is always so busy. They did manage to speak on the telephone and Nina heard how the concert in Manchester went and how she had breakfasted at the Brodskys'. Nina remarks that the Brodskys have been at a masked ball and recalls a gaudy night in Rome when Edvard and Nina were very young. They will be going to Norway in 14 days but they will spend at least a week in Kristiania as it will be too cold at Troldhaugen. The first guests will be her three sisters-in-law. Tonny has been diligently studying Italian this winter.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes that she has had an operation from which she has recovered but without which she would be dead. They are staying at cloisters for 11 old ladies and are only a short drive from the sea. Nina can still "please her fellow creatures by a litttle song". Dated 2 Oct 1920.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes to Anna that she may write in whichever language she likes and rather deprecatingly claims that she is most stupid. In Leipzig they had always spoken in German as they did not know Russian. Nina recalls the days with Tchaikovsky, which were the highlight of those times. Nina mentions that Tchaikovsky, Brahms and Edvard are all dead but they have the personal and artistic memories of them. Nina is pleased that Tony Maaskoff has played so well in Vienna. A Wunderkind Russian violinist, Spiwakovsky, has been worshipped in Kopenhagen but Nina has not yet heard him: Nina is not keen on child wonders.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes to Anna in German but if that is painful for Anna, Nina will do her best in English. Nina is glad to hear that Brodsky's playing is appreciated in Manchester. She recalls returning to the Brodskys' home, seeing the light in the music room and hearing Brodsky play. Nina heard Frank's Quintet the previous day. Nina recalls the Behrens, who were so friendly and good to them, and their lovely, homely house. The weather is grey, misty and wet; she longs for the south "wo die Zitronen bluhn". Dated 30 Jan 1921.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes in great concern to Anna who is suffering from a distended liver. Anna has not seen a doctor. Nina advises her to see a specialist. She quotes Hans Sachs in "Die Meistersinger": "Verachte meinen Meistern nicht" [Do not despise my masters] and advises Anna not to despise doctors. Nina herself would be dead had she done so. Nina has been delighted to receive a photograph of Anna and her dog who has now become very old and "unlustig" [not joyous] like Brahms before his death. Nina regrets not knowing about Brodsky's 70th birthday. She is glad that his colleagues honoured him and that he can still tolerate the bowling green. Nina is happy to be back in her old country and will remain in Hardanger or elsewhere for the whole summer - far from Troldhaugen. Dated 12 Jun 1921.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Adolph Brodsky
Description: Nina writes very anxiously about Anna to Adolph. She has heard from Frau Behrens how ill Anna is. She is also pleased to hear that "der stumme Fisch" [the silent fish], Anna's nephew Leon Picard, is, to Anna's great joy, with the Brodskys. Nina requests that when Anna is much better [or worse, God forbid], Brodsky will let Nina know. She greets Anna most warmly and also sends greetings to Leon Picard should he remember her. Dated 21 Nov 1921.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has received news of Anna from Adolph. She has been wandering around with a large question mark before her eyes. The slightest improvement comes like a ray of sunshine. Nina suggests that Adolph should play to Anna: true art is the best we have when it comes from the heart like Brodsky's. Dated 6 Feb 1922.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Adolph and Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Adolph for his charming letter in which he describes the Brodskys' lives. Nina is delighted that Anna is getting better. She enquires if Barker is the only new member of the quartet. Maaskoff is Anna's favourite pupil. Nina is deep in the Hardanger fjord. The mighty chain of cliffs is covered in glaciers and snow. They climb up and wander in the valleys with waterfalls and flowers in the grass. She mentions happy memories of Edvard and their home but is glad that Edvard is no longer suffering. They will remain a few more weeks there and then go elsewhere in Norway and spend a few days in Bergen to put some flowers on Edvard's grave. At the end of August they hope to be in Denmark again. She gives a Norwegian address and Hotel Monopol, Kopenhagen. Dated 15 Jul 1923.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina is delighted to have heard from Anna again and asks if Anna is now quite herself again. Nina feels quite sad when Anna tells her of the flowers in her garden. Nina recalls how good the Brodskys were to Nina and Tonny and eulogises the "liebe kleine Stadt" [dear little town] Bowdon. On the 11th June [the Griegs' wedding day in 1867] Nina and her sister travel to Norway to spend the summer in Lofthus, Hardanger. Nina sends greetings to Anna's sister and her son and wonders if the remarkable dog is still alive. Dated 20 May 1925.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her last book. Autumn is now approaching after a lovely summer. The following week, Nina and Tonny are going to Kristiania and then to winter in Kopenhagen as usual. In a postscript Nina mentions that Tonny is 81 that day and Nina is 80! Dated 31 Aug 1925.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her letter and book. A Russian pianist, Alexander Brailowsky, was in Kopenhagen and Nina went wild with enthusiasm. She cannot decide about Grieg's diary. His last letters were published against her will and she regrets it. Perhaps she will trust someone who can decide after her death. Nina wishes the Brodskys a happy Christmas and New Year and thanks them for their friendship and love in 1926. Dated 15 Dec 1926.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina writes at length about Unitarianism. She has sent Anna an article written by their minister, Thorwald Kierkegard, which Anna has found interesting. Nina and her sister have been members for 10 to 12 years and they believe it is the religion of the future. There is no dogma nor are there any sacraments. Nina believes that there must be many Unitarians in the Brodskys' area. Dated 27 Jan 1927.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has been delighted to receive a letter from Anna about Unitarianism. Nina and her sister go each Sunday to hear a sermon and sing psalms. There has only been a meeting room but the foundation stone of the first church will be laid on Friday: it is a poor community but they have been collecting for years and there are a few prosperous people. Nina writes more about Unitarianism. She warns Anna to heed the doctor who advised her not to write so much. In a postscript Nina says that she can no longer write so well and clearly as her eyes are bad. Dated 23 Mar 1927.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: This a very warm letter from Nina to the Brodskys. Nina recalls the happy days with the Brodskys and mentions that it is now 20 years since Edvard died. His music is alive over the entire world. Nina herself still takes part in Grieg evenings. When she spent 5 days in Kristiania en route to Kopenhagen, she played in a Grieg concert [she has not sung there for 13 years]: it was packed: the king and queen were there and the stage was covered with flowers. Never was Grieg's spirit so near as on that night. One of Halvorsens' daughters, Nina Grieg Halvorsen, sang to Nina's accompaniment and finally Nina played the four-handed Norwegian dances with Backer Grondahl. At the end of November she was invited to take part in a Grieg orchestral concert and the same pieces were repeated. She is not going off on tour at the age of 82 but has brought her boat into the harbour. In a postscript she thanks Anna for her little book which she will save for Christmas. Dated 14 Dec 1927.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has not written to Anna for a long time. She was glad to hear from Anna's last letter that the Brodskys are well and that Brodsky continues to be so active at the conservatorium. Nina finds that her hearing is as good as ever but her eyesight is worse: she can no longer read new music but she must be able to remember everything by heart. Glasses do not help. She supposes it will be almost summer with the Brodskys but spring has not yet reached them. On Monday they are going back to Kopenhagen and at the end of May, to Norway. Nina would like to go abroad but lacks the courage and does not want to die abroad. Nina remarks that the silent fish and his mother are still chez the Brodskys. Leon works in the garden and is very good and helpful to Anna. Nina sends greetings to Frau Picard and her son. In a postscript, Nina mentions that they have here a splendid violinist and a wonderful person, Emil Telmanyi. Dated 7 Apr 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her last little book and remarks that Anna is and remains an idealist. She understands Anna's joy at Tony Maaskoff who has developed into such a fine artist. Nina has heard about Alfred Barker from Mrs. Behrens: he now leads the Hallé. He is married and has a baby son. The summer has been very cold and damp. In a few days they will go to Bergen and then Kristiania and they to take the America steamer to Kopenhagen on 25 September. The Hotel Monopol has now become a merchant bank. They will be at the King of Denmark. Dated 3 Sep 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina opens her brief letter in wonder that Brodsky continues to be so well artistically and physically. Poor Nina has been lying ill with sciatica for six weeks in hospital and has suffered a great deal. For four days now she has been with Tonny in the hotel where they are well cared for, but Nina is dead tired, giddy and suffering. She is thankful that they are in their native town Bergen, where they have friends. Dated 31 Oct 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her little Christmas book and for her letter. Nina is still not right after her illness and wonders if she will ever find herself again. Tonny has become newborn in their old native town. Nina ends with their warmest Christmas and New Year greetings. Dated 7 Dec 1928.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina has just heard from Mrs. Behrens that Brodsky has died. In this brief letter of condolence, Nina expresses her thoughts and tries to comfort Anna. Dated 26 Jan 1929.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: Nina thanks Anna for her letter. Unfortunately Nina has been very ill for four weeks. It was a heart attack and Nina was certainly over on the other side but has come back. She can and ought to do nothing. Nor is Anna very well. They must wait patiently until their end, grateful in their memories. Nina pays tribute to "der stumme Fisch" [Leon Picard] and bids Anna to try not to be sad. Dated 10 Aug 1929.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky [her last to Anna]
Description: This is Nina's last letter to Anna. Nina is now better but can only walk a short distance without becoming out of breath. She must do everything slowly and gently; otherwise her heart plays up. She is glad to hear that Anna is better. They should be thankful to be free of pain. What a blessing that Anna has the "lieben stummen Fisch" [Leon Picard], who does everything for Anna. Nina asks Anna to thank Frau Picard for her letter. Nina recalls that it is 22 years since Edvard's funeral when dear Brodsky sat and played Edvard's "Last Spring" with tears running down his cheeks. Nina ends her letter "Wir wollen zusammen halten die kurze Zeit wir noch am Leben bleiben" [we want to hold together the short time we remain in life.] Dated 4 Sep 1929.
Autograph letter signed from Nina Grieg to Olga Skadowsky
Description: Nina Grieg has heard from Mrs. Behrens that "our dear Anna is not more among us". Nina writes sympathetically to Madame Picard, Anna's sister, Olga Skadowsky, and thinks that it was best for Anna and for Olga also. The Brodskys filled a great place in the lives of Edvard and Nina Grieg and Nina will be true to their memory for the rest of her life. Dated 9 Oct 1929.
Autograph copy by Anna Brodsky of a letter from Edvard Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: This letter was probably written early in 1892 or 1893, not long after the Brodskys had settled in the United States. Nina mentions the problems facing the proposed American trip; mainly Grieg's health. Nina is pleased that the Brodskys continue to get on well in the new world. Nina hints that there may be something between Anna's sister and Sinding and suggests that Sinding cannot keep to one wife any longer. She writes that she does not know if Sinding loves Frau Gade. Dr. Gade is a noble man and his wife also has many good qualities. The Griegs saw the villa where Miss Smyth and the Empress Eugenie stayed at Menton: they named the place Cap Smyth. Nina gives as their address C.F. Peters, Thalstrasse 10, Leipzig.
Autograph fragment of a letter signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: In this concluding fragment Nina confirms that she has heard from Gibson Young and asks if Anna Brodsky knows that Ole March is married. Nina ends with her usual very affectionate greetings to the Brodskys.
Autograph fragment of a letter from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: In this small fragment Nina informs Anna that Edvard's last work, Four Psalms, op.74, was very well sung. Edvard made the corrections in the summer, received them but never heard the work. Nina found them very moving and the reviews praised them to the heavens as the finest that Edvard wrote.
Autograph letter [incomplete] signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: In this letter Nina Grieg mentions the Leeds Festival dates 9, 10, 11, 12 October on one of which days Edvard would play. This would date the incomplete letter as some time early in 1907. The Griegs are still living in a hotel which suggests that they have not yet moved out of winter quarters in Denmark. Edvard is not very well: he has an eternal cough and a pain in his side. He has a work room in the hotel so that he can be undisturbed. Nina recounts that Rolf Halvorsen is ill in hospital, outside which Annie comes to stand daily to speak with him. The Griegs received a card from Ninatschka at the New Year but they could not reply as she gave no address. Nina mentions the festival in Leeds 9-12 October and Anna has invited the Griegs to visit them then: Nina is delighted. [Edvard's death prevented these events.]. Anna has written about Toni [Anton Maaskoff] who provides a good example for Alfi [Alfred Barker]. Nina then mentions the Halvorsens who are ill with influenza which is raging in the town [This further mention of the Halvorsens suggests that these two sheets may not belong to the same letter.]
Autograph letter [incomplete] signed from Nina Grieg to Anna Brodsky
Description: This letter may have been written in 1924, the year when Anna Brodsky's sister, Olga managed to leave Russia to come to Bowdon. In this last page of a letter to Anna Brodsky, Nina writes that she often accompanies the lieder at Grieg evenings here in Kopenhagen. Now she co-operates with the court pianist, Miss Johanne Stockmarr, an excellent lieder singer, in accompaniment and piano duets. Nina reproaches Anna for not saying how she is. Nina thanks Anna for her book and realises how wonderful for Anna to have her sister. The autumn is unusually beautiful and the woods are gold and bronze.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This photocopy is unfortunately rather indistinct. Adolph Brodsky writes to Grieg about arrangements for the following Sunday to play through Siloti's Quintet with Grieg and Sinding. Brodsky and Grieg could play through Grieg's sonata. The original is dated 27 Jan 1888, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This photocopy is rather faint and Brodsky's writing is very thin and appears to have been executed at great speed. Brodky excuses himself for not writing earlier, nor has he written to Tchaikovsky. The Brodskys have been delighted at Grieg's colossal success in London. The original is dated 4 Jun 1888, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Although no year is given in the date, this letter was probably written in 1893, the year of Tchaikovsky's death. Anna Brodsky writes very movingly to Edvard Grieg of Tchaikovsky's death: the Brodskys have recently received letters and newspapers from Russia and these have brought the loss of their dear Tchaikovsky closer. His mother also died of cholera when placed in a warm bath and Tchaikovsky begged his doctors not to allow him to take a warm bath. He could resist no longer on the day before his death. Olga cannot travel to Russia as she would be under police observation. The Brodskys are very upset to hear that Frau Grieg is ill. Adolph played Edvard's two sonatas with Mason who has written an article on Grieg and his works which will appear in Century Magazine in February. The Brodsky Quartet's outstanding 'cellist, Artur Hekking, has gone back to Europe and the new 'cellist, Anton Hegner, from Kopenhagen seems to be not so outstanding. The original is dated 27 Nov, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This photocopy is rather faint and occasionally Brodsky's spidery writing is indecipherable. Adolph Brodsky writes enthusiastically to Edvard Grieg. Brodsky explains in reply to Professor Kretschmar that the concerts were Hallé's personal undertaking. Next year a committee will run them. Charles Hallé died and Brodsky had to conduct the concert in Bradford on the day of his death. The heirs are paying for this season's concerts. Various either famous or English conductors have been invited to conduct and next year a permanent conductor will be appointed. Hans Richter has been contacted and Forsyth has undertaken the management of these concerts. Forsyth has told Brodsky that Grieg is expected in England in February and he would like a Hallé concert exclusively of Grieg's music with Grieg as conductor and Nina Grieg as singer. [Brodsky himself would like to conduct Grieg's Piano Concerto.] Brodsky requests Grieg to write a couple of lines if this will be possible. The original is dated 10 Nov 1895, and is is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Brodsky writes to Edvard Grieg about concert arrangements. There is no concert committee and Hallé's heirs and Forsyth make the business arrangements and Forsyth is very mean. He made Brodsky wait a long time and then came up with 35 pounds [700 marks ?], for which one has no Grieg. Brodsky wonders if Grieg would play his three sonatas with Brodsky as extra concerts. He wonders how much above 35 pounds Grieg would need to make him come. Perhaps Liverpool would also be possible. Brodsky is very keen for Grieg and his wife to come: they must stay at the Brodskys' or with very dear friends and they would feel much better than in an hotel. Both Adolph and Anna Brodsky like Manchester very much: they have made many friends in the short time they have been there. The public is musical and enthusiastic. Brodsky has a lot of work but enjoys it. He is becoming fatter and fatter. The original is dated 2 Dec 1895, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Brodsky writes that Forsyth counts on Grieg for the 13th February 1896. Brodsky asks Grieg to decide by the middle of January. The missing 15 pounds Brodsky guarantees for the three sonatas. If Liverpool is posssible, they will achieve the highest price. Brodsky begs Grieg to come: he advises him not to trumpet his misery which is not good for the health. Perhaps Grieg has overstretched his nerves and will feel quite well again when it is over. The original is dated 13 Dec 1895, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This photocopy is rather faint and Brodsky's German handwriting is not easy to decipher. This letter which originally enclosed a note from Herr Broadfield, director of the "Gentlemen's Concerts" concerns concert arrangements for Grieg's visit: the chamber [with the violin sonatas] will take place on Wednesday 12 February and the orchestra concert on Thursday 13 February. Grieg will receive 40 guineas and in a postscript Brodsky mentions 42 plus 35 making 77 pounds. Sapelnikoff will be in England in February. Liverpool is not yet definite. The original is dated 20 Dec 1895, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This photocopy is almost completely illegible and a note in Norwegian to this effect has been attached. In this letter to "Lieber Freund", Edvard Grieg, occasional dates [31 July] and London are legible. Anna Brodsky has added a note of thanks for the book illustrated with interesting photographs. Anna can scarcely write because of the tragic events in Russia. Nina mentions sending photographs from the previous summer at Christmas. Adolph looks quite different without his moustache. [A translation by I.E. Stotvig of an article by Oystein Gaukstad entitled "Edvard Grieg and Adolph Brodsky" in Norwegian Music Magazine summarises this letter: Brodsky answers on the 18th May that he had done everything to cancel the concert arrangements, but in vain. However, he can manage a short visit on the 11th-18th June. "We celebrated our silver anniversary quietly in Southport {a port near Manchester}. We were only the two of us. We went out for walks and I read in Russian "A noble nest" by Turgenev for my wife. [On their return home they received flowers, presents and telegrams. At the orchestra class, they received an ovation with speeches and presents from the students.] The original is dated 18 May 1905, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter [incomplete] signed from Anna Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna thanks Edvard Grieg for the book with his kind inscription on the title page and his thoughts of their native land. Anna mentions the horrors of the revolution and worries about her sister Olga, who is in Odessa, while her brother and the rest are in Cherson. Weeks often pass without any sign of life and they rarely receive letters from the Brodskys. Anna has tried to persuade her sister Olga to come to them but so far, without success. The original is dated 6 Jan, c1906, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Edvard and Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This letter has been signed Annadolph. Anna Brodsky feels much closer to the Griegs after receiving Edvard's letter the previous day. Anna has also suffered from erysipelas and warns Nina that she must be careful for weeks, nor is she ready for domesticity yet. The Brodskys have decided to come another time. When Grieg's letter arrived, Anna was alone at home and she read the letter to Adolph over the telephone as she wondered what he would think. After living together for twenty-five years, they often feel and think the same and Brodsky expressed exactly the same thoughts as Anna. Anna bemoans Russia's fate: the country is bleeding from all its wounds. In a postscript, Anna mentions that Adolph is still in Manchester where he has spent the night in order to make an early start: he works too much. The original letter is dated 2 Jun, c1905, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: The Brodskys accompanied by two pupils, Anton Maaskoff and Alfred Barker, and Anna's niece, Nina, have just visited Edvard and Nina Grieg at Troldhaugen. Adolph Brodsky has been delighted to receive Edvard Grieg's letter and is pleased at the prospect of the completed string quartet. Unfortunately Brodsky has not been practising. He has voluntarily undertaken the cure for 3 weeks and when he has lost 10 pounds in weight he will return fresh to fiddle playing. In a postscript, Brodsky mentions that Halvorsen made a very good impression on him. Brodsky mentions his works on Schumann against whom a feud has developed from Wagner. Brodsky cannot understand it and he himself not only admires but also loves Schumann. Anna Brodsky writes a few lines to Nina Grieg and is delighted to have received Grieg's lieder. Anna recalls the last evening at Troldhaugen when Nina sang Grieg's songs. Anna recounts the journey: as far as Berlin all was well; then Ninotshka became ill with great pains in her body and they had to call for the doctor. Nina lay in bed for ten days. When she improved, Adolph and the children went on to Marienbad while Anna remained behind to care for Nina until she was well enough to travel. Now she is again in bed but cheers up when Anna speaks of Troldhaugen. Anna's brother comes in a few days and that may help Ninotshka. The children are practising diligently. Adolph gets up daily at six o'clock, takes the waters, eats very little, walks a lot and in the first week, lost four and a half pounds. Sinding came with his wife, a rather quiet and characterless person from first impressions. He was in excellent spirits and spoke again and again of the olden days with a warmth which disturbed Anna. She likes him very much and was glad to see him again. Anna now wonders if Troldhaugen was just a happy dream. The original is dated 30 Aug 1906, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edvard Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Adolph Brodsky is delighted to have received the score with Edvard's inscription on the title page and thanks Grieg heartily for this Christmas present. He writes in haste as he must pack and go off in a few hours. They are playing in Frankfurt Museum on 21 December and in Muhlhausen on the 22nd . Then Brodsky goes to his nephew [Leon Picard] in Nancy and back via Paris. Brodsky has had only a cursory look at the score and will give it to Richter but study it on his return. For months Brodsky has heard nothing more from Urbanek [who ran a concert agency in Prague] since they wrote and said they were ready to play without a fee, only travelling expenses. Maybe that is too much but he should write to let them know. Brodsky mentions Brahms and the Herzogenbergs whose correspondence Edvard is reading. Brodsky admits that Leipzig was paradise for him but later it was not so pleaasant and he was happy to have come out of the nest of gossip. The original letter is dated 18 Dec 1906, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna Brodsky writes anxiously to Nina Grieg and hopes that the native air has helped Nina Grieg to recover from her influenza. She must not have too many guests. The Brodskys are greatly looking forward to having Nina and her sister, Tonny, with them in October and they will do everything possible to make them very comfortable at their house. Anna thanks Nina for sending the card and lovely photo of Grieg which Anna sent on to Odessa, but Olga was away visiting her other sister. The previous day Adolph played the two sonatas by Grieg so beautifully that Anna could not hold back her tears. The original is dated 12 Jun [1909 or 1912], and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna Brodsky believes that it is an eternity since she and Nina Grieg communicated with each other. There has been some aggravation in the relations between the Brodskys and Richter and his family. Richter is a great musician but, as a person he is unreliable and very difficult to do business with, as the concert committee have found once again. Two days ago, he and his family went off to Germany to Ballenstedt, where one of his married daughters lives. Anna will give Nina full details of this when they next see each other. Spring with colourful and fragrant flowers has reached Bowdon. Adolph plays bowls daily and Anna goes for long walks with Tony's dog, a charming, completely black little dog, which is quite at home and likes them very much. Tony had to go to London and left the dog with them as he is so happy there. Adolph usually comes home at 5pm when they drink tea together and each evening Anna reads aloud for hours to Adolph as he smokes his pipe. At the moment she is reading him "Great Expectations" and how they are enjoying it. Since the previous day the two of them are at home alone. Tony was with them for more than five months since his parents had to be in New York but when his father finds work in London, they will stay there. Naum Blinder, who came for lunch daily throughout the winter, has gone to London to hear different violinists. The loss of Richter is colossal: never will they hear such Beethoven Symphonies as under Richter. Anna was not well before Easter but recovered after taking brine baths, a remarkable means of putting the nerves in order. The original is dated 5 May 1911, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna is anxious at not hearing from Nina and asks for just a little letter as she expects Nina has guests at Troldhaugen. Anna has Nina's photograph in front of her as she writes. Anna has been very upset to read the correspondence between the Herzogenbergs and Brahms [in two volumes, edited by Max Kalbeck.]. Anna has always admired Frau von Herzogenberg and she has been very disturbed to read narrow-minded and unjust letters about Adolph from Frau von Herzogenberg to Brahms who had shown warmth and interest in Adolph. She attempted to put Brahms against Adolph. Anna feels rather let down. This letter has been signed Annadolph. The original is dated 12 Jul 1911, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph postcard from Anna Brodsky to Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna informs Nina that she will write from Berlin, Harzburger Hof, Dorotheen Strasse where they will arrive the following day and stay until 2 August. The postcard is addressed to Frau Nina Grieg, Trouldhaugen, bei Bergen, Norway. The original is postmarked 25 Jul 1911, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna writes to Nina as she sits under the fragrant firs while not far away the orchestra plays waltzes by Johann Strauss. Anna writes that she and Adolph wish to enjoy some of the modern composers, Debussy, Max Reger, Delius, etc., but what they have heard gives them no desire to hear more. Anna asks Nina to tell her what she thinks of Delius as a composer and as a person. Anna understands that Nina is thinking of coming to visit the Brodskys and Anna informs her that they will be back on the first of October. Nina may have the guest room upstairs which has had electric light installed. They will find a room for Tonny in the neighbourhood. Adolph wants to go to Bayreuth [just 3 hours away] to see their favourite Wagner opera Meistersinger conducted by Richter. [100 crowns for a ticket purchased in Marienbad, but Richter managed to buy one for him in Bayreuth for 20 marks]. Richter would like to come and see them the following day. Anna thinks he may be wanting to conduct a few concerts in Manchester the next winter. Marie Richter wrote a card asking Anna to go to Bayreuth with Adolph but Anna does not want to interrupt her cure. Anna continues this letter a couple of days later after Richter's visit. No business was mentioned and the purpose of this journey was not clear. Richter is renting a house in Bayreuth for himself and his family. The original letter is dated 9 Aug 1911, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna opens her letter with the hope that Nina has now recovered from her illness. A letter from Nina is always a special joy. In every room the Brodskys have a photograph of Nina, Grieg, or of them both. Anna looks forward to Nina and Tonny coming in October. Their plans for the summer are still unclear. They have not seen Olga for three years: they love her so much and want to see her since they are getting older and older. Adolph is remarkably fresh and cheerful and nobody would imagine he is 61. Concerts, meetings etc. are now over until October. Anna asks Nina to send a postcard of Grieg to her sister, Frau Olga. Nina may think the Brodskys are fine people, but they are nothing in comparison with Olga who is a wonderful, generous remarkable human being. The original is dated 9 May 1912, and it is unclear when the photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna expresses her delight at being in Russia, which has been going backwards and not forwards in recent years. Everyone is discontent and this may bring all classes together. Anna is very happy to see Olga daily. Olga has arranged accommodation for the Brodskys: a little villa with high rooms and a distant view of the Black Sea and little firs growing in front of the house. Olga has hired a cook for them. The previous day, they were in Odessa where they met two of their sisters: there were four sisters, two nephews and Adolph when Olga's Leo, "der stumme Fisch", [the silent fish] came quite unexpectedly from Moscow for a few days. Adolph took everyone to a cafe and treated them to chocolate. The Brodskys will be in Odessa until 27 August when they go to Vienna and then straight home. In a postscript, Anna mentions that Ninotshka expects a baby in a few weeks. She signs the letter Annadolph Brodsky. The original is dated 1/14 Aug 1912, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Nina Grieg
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This brief message may have been written during the Great War when Nina corresponded in English to avoid censorship. In this very brief note, Anna commends Nina for her good English. Anna is glad that they [Nina and her sister Tonny] are better and asks them to promise to visit to Bowdon if they are really coming to England in the New Year. The original is dated 7 Jan [c1916], and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Brodsky submits a programme for a concert [to be given to the Worcester Philharmonic Society] for Elgar's approval: Volkmann's Quartet in G minor; the first movement of Mozart's Concerto for Violin and Viola [to be played by Brodsky and Speelman]; Andante Cantabile from Tchaikovsky's first Quartet; Lezione Quinta by Attilio Ariosti [Mr. Fuchs] and Beethoven op.135. Brodsky hopes that Elgar will undertake the accompaniment in the Mozart concerto in which Hellmesberger's cadenza in the first movement is a beauty. If the quartet has already played op.135 in Worcester, they will play op.130 instead. The original is dated 15 Feb 1903, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Adolph writes most appreciatively to Edward Elgar after he and his wife Anna have just heard "The Dream of Gerontius". [Elgar conducted a performance of "Gerontius" in Hanley on 13 March 1903.] The original is dated 12 Mar 1903, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph postcard signed from Edward Elgar to Carice Elgar
Creator: Elgar, Edward William (1857-1934), Knight, 1st Baronet, composer; The Elgar Foundation (1973-present)
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This picture postcard which Elgar sent to his daughter is of the Brodsky Quartet [Brodsky, Rawdon Briggs, Speelman and Fuchs]. The postcard is addressed to Miss Carice Elgar, Craeg Lea, Malvern. Elgar has written on the picture side of this postcard: Our best quartet and signed E.E.. He writes that the overture is just done and [indecipherable] is ringing in everybodies' ears. He adds a couple of bars of "In the South". The original is dated 9 Mar 1904, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made. Stamped on the back of each folio is: "Property of The Elgar Foundation, Broadheath, Worcester. Not to be reproduced without permission'.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This letter is a reminder to Dr. Elgar of what happened at an interview between Brodsky and Elgar at the Grand Hotel, Manchester. Brodsky invites Elgar to become Professor of Instrumentation and Composition at the Royal Manchester College of Music and the same in the Music Faculty at the Victoria University. Both institutions can offer four hundred pounds. Elgar would have time to travel and to compose. The original is dated 5 Apr 1904, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Adolph Brodsky thanks Elgar for his letter of refusal. Brodsky had not dared to expect Elgar to accept. Meanwhile Brodsky is looking forward to meeting the Elgars at the festival in Morecambe. Mrs. Brodsky will also be going. The original is dated 15 Apr 1904, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Alice Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna writes an enthusiastic letter of thanks to Lady Elgar after receiving the photograph of Sir Edward [see AB/744] that morning. Anna recalls the happy days in Rome [April 1908], but their days in Naples were spoiled by the poverty and misery. The Brodskys will be going to Russia in a month and will return in September. The Brodskys are looking forward to hearing Sir Edward's symphony and Anna hopes that the Elgars will come to hear it under Richter. The original is dated 1 Jul [c1908], and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Alice Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: undated
Description: Adolph writes that Mrs. Brodsky has sent on Lady Elgar's kind letter. He regrets that he will be unable to accept her kind invitation for before or after the concert since he has to be back for his work at the college on Saturday morning and he will be busy all day at the college before the concert. He will be very happy to lead the solo quartet in Sir Elgar's Allegro for String Orchestra. The original letter is undated, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of a printed Christmas card from Adolph and Anna Brodsky [to Edward and Alice Elgar]
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: The wording on this card reads thus: With kindest thoughts and wishes for Christmas and the New Year from Dr. & Mrs. Brodsky. If this card was illustrated, the image has not shown up on the photocopy. The card is undated, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Alice Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna writes to Lady Elgar of Adolph's great love of Elgar's Violin Concerto, which he played twice last week: in the Mid-day Concert and for the Ancoats Brotherhood. Some time ago, he also played it to a huge audience in Macclesfield. Anna encloses a letter from the niece of Mrs. Gaskell [which we do not have]. Anna adds that they are leading active lives and are very concerned with what is going on in the world. Anna is lecturing on Russia and earning money to help the suffering of Russian prisoners of war in Germany. Adolph plays in concerts to help hospitals. The original letter is dated 16 Feb 1917, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Brodsky is absolutely delighted that Elgar has dedicated his string quartet to the Brodsky Quartet. Walter Hatton has now replaced Fuchs. Brodsky hopes that Elgar has recovered from his severe operation. Brodsky tells Elgar that he plays Elgar's Violin Concerto "almost dayly as other people do their prayers." Brodsky enthuses that Elgar plans to compose a sonata for violin and piano and also a piano and string quintet. Chamber music people now have their due when they have so much admired his choral and orchestral music. The original is dated 30 Dec 1918, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Adolph Brodsky is very keen to go to the private performance of Elgar's Quartet and Quintet and wonders if he and his wife could gain admission to it. Brodsky will play Elgar's sonata at a Brodsky Quartet Concert next season. Brodsky writes that he is not a record hunter and hearing Elgar's works played by others saves him a great deal of brain work. When Brodsky heard Kreisler play Elgar's Concerto he used the experience for teaching purposes. Brodsky taught it to Anton Maaskoff, Naum Blinder, Alfred Barker and Helena Kontorovitch. Brodsky mentions that he never tires of the concerto which has almost become "his dayly prayer". Brodsky asks Elgar to reply by return of post so that he can arrange for a room in London. He ends with Easter greetings to the Elgars. The original letter is dated 18 Apr 1919, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Adolph Brodsky writes admiringly to Edward Elgar of the latter's Quartet which was magnificently performed by the Catterall Quartet. Brodsky is particularly impressed with the first movement "which is a wonderful work of art." Brodsky is cut off from all his quartet colleagues, especially Speelman who "is tied fast to the North Pier at Blackpool." The Brodsky Quartet will not be able to play the Quartet until next season. It does not matter who plays it as long as they do justice to the work. Brodsky is grateful to the younger quartets for doing the pioneer work. Brodsky hopes in time to play it all over the North of England and in Ireland. The Bohemian Quartet is coming to England soon and Brodsky hopes that they will play Elgar's Quartet on the continent. The original is dated 29 May 1919, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Brodsky is very sorry to hear from Mr. Griffiths about Elgar's attack of bronchitis and thinks he was very wise not to take "any risques" as Elgar's health is very precious to all who love his music. Brodsky wonders what Elgar would think of their playing of his Quartet. Brodsky's wife, Anna, who has been an invalid since 1921, when her left limbs were paralysed, asks Brodsky to play the Elgar Violin Concerto almost every evening. After Brodsky's work at the college is done and when he is not professionally engaged, he is mostly at home with Anna. The original is dated 6 Nov 1925, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer; Worcestershire Record Office (1947-present)
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: In this letter to "Sir Elgar", Anna expresses great appreciation of Elgar's music and especially his violin concerto which has helped her so much during her long and severe illness. She is very grateful and as she considers him a dear friend, she sends him the sketches which she wrote during her last illness. The original letter is dated 10 Nov 1925, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made. This copy appears to have been made by Worcestershire Record Office, and it can be surmised that at least some of the others are also copies from there.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This letter is in reply to Elgar's inviting Brodsky to perform in a Hallé concert in celebration of Elgar's seventieth birthday in January 1927. The original is dated "November or December 1926', and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of an autograph letter signed from Adolph Brodsky to Edward Elgar
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Brodsky apologises as his and Anna's birthday wishes did not reach Elgar, but he repeats them in this message. He signs the letter Annadolph Brodsky. The original is dated 3 Jun 1928, and it is unclear when this photocopy was made.
Photocopy of "The forty-fifth anniversary of our wedding', by Anna Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: This is a photocopy of the booklet which Anna Brodsky sent to Edward Elgar. A full summary of the contents of this booklet is given in AB/291.
Photocopy of "A treasure won by the spring-cleaning of 1927 With Another Story', by Anna Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna Brodsky sent this booklet to Sir Edward Elgar. On the title page, she has written: To Dear Sir Edward Elgar with best wishes for Christmas and the New Year, Anna Brodsky. A summary of the contents of this booklet is given in AB/290, which was published in 1925.
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: Anna Brodsky sent this booklet to Sir Edward Elgar probably some time in 1924. A summary of the contents of this booklet published in 1924 is given in AB/289.
Autograph letter signed from Joseph Joachim to Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Joachim, Joseph (1831-1907), Violinist, Composer, Conductor
Dates: undated
Description: Joachim is delighted about the duets in Liverpool: the Bach Double and the B minor Concertante op.88 by Spohr, of which he writes an extract. He suggests that they can have a preliminary trial at Warburg's on 1st March. He mentions his programme for his second Manchester appearance: Bach A minor and Beethoven D major on 2nd March. Dated 22 Feb.
Description: A photograph of the Brodsky Quartet at the youthful stage of its Manchester formation: Dr. A. Brodsky, R. Briggs, S. Speelman and Carl Fuchs. The 2 violinists stand behind and between the violist and 'cellist.
Autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Mrs. Welch
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: 1925
Description: Anna replies to a thank you letter from Mrs. Welch who has received Anna's booklet Father Nicholas; and Anna sends a signed photograph of herself [AB/941P]. Anna has spent a fortnight in St. Anne's recently and, although she feels much stronger, she cannot yet walk without help. Dated 29 Jan 1925.
Autograph letter signed from Anna Brodsky to Mrs. Welch
Creator: Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [1929]
Description: In this brief letter, Anna Brodsky acknowledges Mrs. Welch's letter of sympathy after the death of Adolph Brodsky. Anna Mentions "dear Gibson Young." [A violin student at the R.M.C.M. in 1909 who was later in Australia.]
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [1920s]
Description: Adolph Brodsky, pipe in mouth, is pushing Anna Brodsky in a wicker-work wheelchair, probably in their garden at 3 Laurel Mount, Bowdon. Both are wearing hats and Anna is thickly covered in a shawl and rug.
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: A formal outdoor studio portrait. Adolph and Anna are seated on a wooden summerseat with the trunk of a tree immediately behind. In Adolph's right hand is his hat while his left hand is gently placed on Anna's left shoulder. Anna holds an elegantly furled umbrella in her left hand.
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Brodsky, Anna (c.1855-1929), scientist, President of RMCM Club, writer
Dates: [20th cent]
Description: A formal photograph probably taken in the garden of the Brodsky home in Bowdon. Anna is seated on an elaborate wooden chair with an open book in her gloved hand. She is gazing in the distance. Hatted and with his right hand in his pocket, Adolph stands looking at Anna from a slight distance.
Creator: Krehbiel, H.E. (1854-1923), music critic; Kreisler, Fritz (1875-1962), Composer; Auer, Leopold (1845-1930), violinist, conductor, composer, teacher; Kochańska, Prakseda Marcelina (1858-1935), singer; Bauer, Harold Victor (1873-1951), pianist, violini
Dates: [1921]
Description: To Adolph Brodsky on the seventieth anniversary of his birth, greetings with a shamrock printed by hand, probably Krehbiel's at the top of this scroll. The American critic, H.E. Krehbiel has written a commemorative poem in the style of Robert Burns. Many other friends, colleagues and pupils add their warm messages and signatures: Fritz Kreisler, Leop. Auer, Marcella Sembrich, Mark Fonaroff, Franz Kneisel, Alwin Schweder, Harold Bauer, William Mengelberg, Ephrem Zimbalist, Vera Fonaroff et al.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Creator: Manchester Gentleman's Concerts (fl.1800s)
Dates: 1898
Description: The directors of the Gentlemen's Concerts are listed at the top of the programme. Adolph Brodsky replaced Mr. Willy Hess who "has wired to say he is too unwell to travel". Dated 21 Feb 1898.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This is the sixth and last chamber concert of the tenth season and the fiftieth and last of these concerts. This concert was held in the Music Hall, Edinburgh, at eight o'clock on Monday 12 March, 1906.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given as part of the "Recreation in Ancoats' series, and was held at the New Islington Hall, Ancoats, Manchester. It was held on Sunday 13 Jan 1907.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was performed for the Shelford Royal Hospital Extension Fund, and was given at the Salford Technical Institute on Fri 15 May 1908.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given as part of "Herr Ernst Denhof's Concerts', 10th season, and was held on Mon 12 Mar 1906 at the Music Hall, Edinburgh.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given as part of the "Recreation in Ancoats' series of concerts, at The New Islington Hall, Ancoats, Manchester, on Sun 15 Jan 1911.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given for the Ancoats Recreation Committee in a series entitled "Music Appreciation'. It was held in the New Islington Hall, Ancoats, Manchester on Wed 8 Nov 1911.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given at Greenacres Hall, Oldham on Fri 23 Feb, 1912. It was the third subscription concert in the nineteenth season at the Hall.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given for the Ancoats Recreation Committee as part of the "Music Appreciation' series. It was held in the New Islington Hall, Ancoats, Manchester, on Wed 9 Oct 1912.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given for the Ancoats Recreation Committee as part of the "Music Appreciation' series. It was held in the New Islington Hall, Manchester, on Wed 18 Dec 1912.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given in the small concert room at St George's Hall, Liverpool, on 11 Jan 1913. This was the second concert in the series; the third and fourth are also advertised in this programme.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This lecture was given as part of the "Recreation in Ancoats' series, held at the New Islington Hall, Ancoats, Manchester, on Sun 4 Jan 1914. The programme of forthcoming Brodsky Quartet performances is given within the programme.
Programme of a Sheffield Amateur Instrumental Society concert
Creator: Sheffield Amateur Instrumental Society (fl.1910s)
Dates: 1914
Description: This concert was given with the Sheffield Amateur Instrumental Society. It was held at the Albert Hall, Sheffield, on 27 Jan 1914. Adolph Brodsky played solo violin. An insert notes that the order of the programme has been altered, "to meet the convenience of Dr Brodsky, who is so kindly assisting the Society at this concert'.
Programme of a violin recital given by Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Forbes, Robert Jaffrey (1879-1958), conductor, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1916
Description: This concert was performed at the Brocklehurt Memorial Hall on Wed 26 Jan 1916, in aid of Blinded British Soldiers and Sailors. Adolph Brodsky played the violin, whilst RJ Forbes played the piano.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given as part of the "Recreation in Ancoats' series. It was held in the New Islington Hall, Ancoats, Manchester, on Sun 13 Jan 1918.
Programme of a concert performed by Dr Brodsky and others
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1918
Description: This concert formed part of the Tuesday Mid-Day Concerts series, held at Houldsworth Hall in Manchester. This was the 103rd concert, performed on Tue 15 Jan 1918. Dr Brodsky and Mr Anton Maaskoff played the violin, with Miss Lucy Pierce on the piano.
Programme of a concert given by the Manchester White Heather Society
Creator: Manchester White Heather Society (fl.1910s), charity
Dates: 1915
Description: This "Grand Sacred Concert' was performed for the Manchester White Heather Society at the New Palace Theatre, Manchester, on Sun 12 Sep 1915. The Right Hon. The Lord Mayor of Manchester presided. Adolph Brodsky was one of the artists.
Programme of a concert given by various performers, including Adolph Brodsky
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Forbes, Robert Jaffrey (1879-1958), conductor, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1919
Description: This concert was performed as part of the Tuesday Mid-Day Concert series, held at the Houldsworth Hall in Manchester. This was the 164th concert, performed on Tue 25 Mar 1919. Adolph Brodsky played Elgar's Violin Concerto, Op. 61, with RJ Forbes on the piano.
Programme of a concert given by various performers, including Adolph Brodsky
Description: This "Special Musical Service' was held at St Mary the Virgin church, Haughton Green, Denton. It was held on Sun 5 Oct 1919. There are two copies of this programme.
Description: This concert was performed at the Free Trade Hall, Peter Street, Manchester on 22 Oct 1919. The Brodsky Quartet were amongst the artists. This was the first concert in the seventeenth series of Subscribers' Concerts at the Hall.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was performed as part of the "Music Appreciation' series for Recreation in Ancoats. It was performed at the New Islington Hall on Wed 12 Nov 1919.
Prospectus of the Stockport Vocal Union, 1920-1921
Description: This prospectus covers the fortyeighth season of the Stockport Vocal Union. The Brodsky Quartet appear, scheduled to play the third concert, on Mon 20 Dec 1920.
Programme for three violin and piano recitals performed by Adolph Brodsky and RJ Forbes
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Forbes, Robert Jaffrey (1879-1958), conductor, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music
Dates: 1921
Description: These recitals were performed under the auspices of the University Musical Society and in aid of the University Appeal Fund. The recitals were held at the Whitworth Hall of Manchester University on 2 Feb, 16 Feb and 2 Mar, 1921.
Programme of a concert given by various performers, including Adolph Brodsky
Description: This concert was performed in the Town Hall, Oldham, for the Oldham Musical Art Society, on 7 Oct 1919. Adolph Brodsky performed a violin solo.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This "Grand Concert' was performed at Cliffs & Norbreck Hydro, Norbreck, near Blackpool, on 5 May 1918. Adolph Brodsky performed a number of solos as well as appearing with the Quartet.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet and others
Description: This concert was performed as part of the twenty fourth season of the Mid-Day Concerts series, held in the Houldsworth Hall, Deansgate, Manchester, on Mon 6 Dec 1920.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was performed as part of the twenty fourth season of the Mid-Day Concerts series, held in the Houldsworth Hall, Deansgate, Manchester, on Mon 20 Dec 1920.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was performed as part of the twenty fourth season of the Mid-Day Concerts series, held in the Houldsworth Hall, Deansgate, Manchester, on Thu 10 Feb 1921.
Programme of a concert given for the fourth New Mills and District Subscription Concerts series
Creator: New Mills and District Subscription Concerts (fl.1920s)
Dates: 1920
Description: This concert was the first in the fourth season of the New Mills and District Subscription Concerts (Orchestral). It was held in the Town Hall on Wed 13 Oct. Adolph Brodsky provided the violin solos.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was given as part of the thirty ninth season of "Recreation in Ancoats'. It was held in the New Islington Hall, Ancoats, Manchester, on Sun 9 Jan 1921.
Programme for a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet with the Heywood Co-operative Glee and Madrigal Society
Creator: Heywood Industrial Co-operative Society (1850-fl.1950s)
Dates: 1921
Description: This "Miscellaneous Concert' was given by the Quartet with the Heywood Co-operative Glee and Madrigal Society, for the Heywood Industrial Co-operative Society (Educational Department). It was held in Bethel Street School, Heywood on Sat 26 Feb 1921.
Programme of a concert given by Bury Athenaeum Musical Society, with Adolph Brodsky
Description: This concert was given by the Bury Athenaeum Musical Society at the Athenaeum Hall, 16 Mar 1921. Brodsky pieces in both the first and second halves.
Programme of a concert given by the Blackpool Chamber Concert Society, with the Brodsky Quartet
Creator: Blackpool Chamber Concert Society (fl.1920s)
Dates: 1921
Description: This concert was the fourth in the Blackpool Chamber Concert Society's 1920-1921 season. It was performed at the Hotel Metropole on Mon 21 Mar 1921.
Programme of a concert given by the Brodsky Quartet
Description: This concert was the second in the Leighton House Chamber Concerts series. It was performed at Leighton House, Kensington, London, on Tue 17 Feb 1914. The Quartet were joined by the solo pianist, Percy Grainger.
Programme of a concert given by the Wilmslow Choral Society, with Brodsky conducting
Description: This concert was the second in the twenty second season of the Wilmslow Choral Society. It was held at the Drill Hall, Wilmslow, on Mon 16 Dec 1907. On this occasion, Brodsky was the conductor.
Programme for the thirty sixth series of The William Huntington Lectures
Description: This is an arts periodical which appeared weekly during the theatre season. Of particular interest in this musical journal is a lengthy biographical article on Adolph Brodsky who was appearing in two chamber concerts in Odessa in the forthcoming week, on 25 and 28 March. Brodsky was born in Taganrog on 21 March 1951. He was a pupil of Hellmesberger in Vienna. 1868-1870 Brodsky played in the the Vienna opera theatre. He then went on successful concert tours in his native Russia. He then taught at the Moscow Conservatoire from 1875-1879 and in 1879 he for a time directed the symphony concerts in Kiev. The article traces Brodsky's career: premiering the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto in 1881 [not 1882 as stated in the article]; teaching and forming the Brodsky Quartet at the Leipzig Conservatoire; the years in New York and finally in Manchester. A photograph on the front page shows Brodsky holding violin and bow as he stands beside a music stand. An advertisement for Brodsky's two chamber concerts appears on p.7: on Tuesday 25 March 1903, Brodsky, A.P. Fidelman [a former pupil of Brodsky and now professor at the Odessa Conservatoire], I.V. Perman and Vulfius played Haydn's Quartet no.5. in G major and Schubert's Quartet in D minor; between these two items, Brodsky played the Devil's Trill, by Tartini. The other concert on Friday 28 March 1903, comprised Schumann's Quartet op.41 no.1 in A minor, Bach's Double Violin Concerto, played by Brodsky and Fidelman, and Beethoven's Quartet op.59 no.1 in F major. These were held in the Music Society Hall in Odessa. The journal is dated 22 Mar 1903.
Description: Published in New York, USA. Of particular interest is the portrait of Brodsky on the cover and a letter to the editor from an admirer of Brodsky, who recently spent time with Brodsky in England when Brodsky expressed his enthusiasm for the United States, and the Manhattan Chess Club. This issue is dated 15 May 1901.
Issue of "Monthly Musical Record', Vol XXXIV, No. 400
Description: It is not immediately clear why this journal has been kept. There is an article on "The Elgar Festival', which mentions Elgar at length, as well as Hans Richter. The journal is dated 1 Apr 1904.
Description: This signed photograph of Adolph Brodsky with moustache was published in a supplement to no.81 of "The Strad', January 1897, just over a year after his arrival in Manchester.
Autograph text of the speech written by Adolph Brodsky for the presentation to Stanley Withers
Description: This speech was written by Brodsky as Principal of the RMCM, to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of Stanley Withers's appointment as Registrar of the College.
A collection of miscellaneous papers with Brodsky connections
Creator: Brodsky, Adolph Davidovich (1851-1929), Violinist, Principal of the Royal Manchester College of Music; Joseph WIlliams, London (1808-1907), music publishers; Breitkopf & Härtel (1719-present), music publishers; Baines, William (1899-1922), composer, pia
Dates: 1920s
Description: This miscellany of papers was with a collection of Brodsky programmes. This collection comprises various mainly musical items and is listed here: Hale Cinema House Programme for December 1929, an order form for violin music from Joseph Williams, London, a Breitkopf & Hartel catalogue of modern Russian music for solo string instruments, a brochure of the music of William Baines, two copies of Music Teachers' Guide [Bosworth & Co.], Musical News, July 1928, programme of a musical recital by Mrs. William Alsop, vocalist and Mr. William Alsop, violinist in the Vincent Club, Glasgow on 30 January 1920, press notices of the violinist, Albert Voorsanger, a catalogue of selected songs by Cyril Scott, published by Elkin, a catalogue of songs by Roger Quilter, also published by Elkin, Stories of the operas in the repertoire of the Godwin Opera Company, an advertisement for the book, The Technique of the fiddle bow, by J. Hullah Brown, Thematic list of violin pieces for teaching purposes, published by Joseph Williams, two handbills for concerts given by the Vienna Choir Boys, conductor Dr. Georg Gruber, in the Houldsworth Hall, Manchester on Saturday 30 October at 3 and 8pm, and a list of violin works published by Joseph Williams.
Cigar box presented to Adolph Brodsky by Hans von Bülow
Creator: Bülow, Hans von (1830-1894), conductor, pianist, composer
Dates: 1889
Description: This handsome cigar box bears the inscription: Ihrem Ehrengast Herrn Professor A. Brodsky zur freundlichen Erinnerung an die Concertsaison 1888-1889. Die Mitglieder des Neuen Philharm. Orchesters unter Leitung des Herrn Dr. H. v. Bülow. Hamburg, March 1889.] This was presented in gratitude to Adolph Brodsky after Brodsky had given considerable help to von Bulow and his orchestra. [See Anna Brodsky's "Recollections of a Russian Home' p.151-2].
Letter cut from newspaper re the centenary of Brodsky playing Tchaikovsky
Description: In this letter to a newspaper, H. Lambert Wilson suggests that the centenary of the first performance of Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto should be celebrated and suggests, as soloist, Isaac Stern, who was a pupil of Blinder, one "of Brodsky's most illustrious pupils." Photographs of Richter and Brodsky are reproduced beside the letter.
Autograph letter signed from D. Dlabac to Adolph Brodsky
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