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opera-ghosts · 2 years ago

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OTD in Music History: Composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky (1840 - 1893) sits down and writes a letter to his friend, the famous Russian conductor Eduard Napravnik (1839 - 1916), letting him know that Tchaikovsky will unfortunately not be able to attend the final rehearsals for the St. Petersburg production of his new opera "Mazeppa," because he must instead stay in Moscow to oversee the final rehearsals of the production of the same opera in that city. Tchaikovsky composed "Mazeppa" between 1881 and 1883, and two related “world premieres” were arranged: Moscow (February 3, 1884) and St. Petersburg (February 6, 1884) -- the latter to take place under Napravnik´s baton. At both of these performances, the work was regrettably marred by uneven vocal and acting abilities within the two casts. The press and the public nevertheless responded warmly in Moscow, but "Mazeppa" received a harsh critical roasting in St. Petersburg. Tchaikovsky's brother, Modest, initially hid that fact from Tchaikovsky -- and when Tchaikovsky finally learned the truth some weeks later, he wrote the following to Modest: "You did well, because the truth might have killed me." PICTURED: The original letter that Tchaikovsky wrote to Napravnik, referenced above, dated less than two weeks before the world premiere of "Mazeppa". This letter reads in part (translated): "It is impossible for me to leave Moscow, where rehearsals are due to begin any moment now, too. My earnest request to you is to rehearse my opera without waiting for me . . . I am transferring all my rights of authorship concerning interference into studying for and performing the opera entirely with you . . . I nourish absolute trust in your friendly sympathy for the fate of my opera . . . be assured that I am not in the least exaggerating saying that I unconditionally trust your craftsmanship, experience, and friendship . . ." Given the poor reviews, perhaps Tchaikovsky placed too much faith in his friend?