Foerster, Franz, Robert Dvořák, Antonín
Basic information
Letter
My dear Dr. Dvořák:
You may not be displeased to hear a word from Pittsburgh of the latest performance of the “New World” Symphony. Whenever I hear it, I always feel as if I should like to say personally to the composer - “I thank you!” Pittsburg seems to demand an annual performance of your symphony, I know that it was given (by the P. Orchestra) each season for three years and am certain it was given before. COuld you but hear the grateful applause which followed each successive movement, you might understand to what extent it is appreciated here. The “Larghetto” and “Scherzo” especially! They are wonderful! In all the music I have ever heard I know of nothing more exquisitely beautiful than your “Larghetto”. The “Tod und Verklärung” (played here a few weeks ago) may be a great work but it is certain that it lacks that essential element, beauty. How thoroughly a work of art then is your symphony! And Tolstoy says “Art is transfer of feelings” - again, how clearly is your symphony a genuine art-work, a masterpiece of musical expression! If you knew how many hearts you had made happy in one evening - how happy you have made myself (as an instance), you might well be satisfied with your work in the art world. How gratified must a composer be to know himself to be accomplishing so much!
From your friend and admirer,
Robert Franz Foerster
