Sgambati, Giovanni. (1814-1914)

"Barcarola" (Piano Quintet No. 2) - Autograph Musical Quotation Signed

Rare AMQS from the Italian pianist, composer, and student of Liszt, of the Barcarola from his Piano Quintet No. 2, Op. 5. Sgambati has penned the first two measures of the composition in black ink and signed his name, adding "Roma Dec. 1903" to the front of a French illustrated postcard appropriately depicting a scene of boats on the water ("A L'Aurore") addressed on the verso by the recipient "Mlle Bella Toledo / 3, rue Scribe, Paris." Without postal cancelation, light horizontal crease, else in fine condition. 3.5 x 5.5 inches (9 x 14 cm).

The Second Piano Quintet, of which the Barcarola is the second movement, was composed in 1875. The Italian barcarola or barcaruola, from barca ('boat') is a traditional folk song sung by Venetian gondoliers, or a piece of music composed in that style.

Sgambati promoted a revival of instrumental and symphonic music in Italy during the second half of the 19th century. A piano student of Liszt, he included in his recitals works by German composers hitherto neglected in Italy. In 1866 he formed an orchestra in Rome and conducted the first Italian performances of Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony and Liszt’s Dante Symphony. He also introduced Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto, playing the solo part himself. In 1867 he helped to establish the Roman Society of the Quartet. He devoted his later years to teaching and in 1876 promoted the foundation of the first public music school in Rome. In addition to chamber music, songs, and piano pieces, Sgambati composed a Requiem Mass, two symphonies, and a piano concerto. (Encyclopedia Britannica.)

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AMQS Classical Music Signature Signed Document/Item Postcard