Fuller performances of the Beethoven Symphonies and of the Dante
Symphony are to be given next Advent in the Dante Gallery.
Sgambati is to conduct them, and I have promised to attend the
rehearsals.
Heugel of Paris (Director of the Menestrel) is shortly to publish a new edition of my Franciscus-legends.
With friendliest greetings, your attached
F. Liszt
October 2nd, 1866
48. To Breitkopf and Hartel
Much Esteemed Herr Doctor,
It is very mortifying to me to have to confess that I have most awkwardly come to a standstill with the transcription of the Beethoven Quartets. After several attempts the result was either absolutely unplayable—or insipid stuff. Nevertheless I shall not give up my project, and shall make another trial to solve this problem of pianoforte arrangement. If I succeed I will at once inform you of my "Heureka." [Discovery (from a Greek word).- TRANS.] Meanwhile I am occupied exclusively with the "Christus Oratorio," which has, at last, advanced so far that all I have now to do is to put the marks of expression in the score and the pianoforte score.
Pray kindly excuse me if a small piece of vanity leads me to address you with a wish. My "Symphonic Poems" have, as you know, had a regular deluge of halberds hurled at them by the critics. After all these murderous and deadly blows that have been aimed at them, it would be very gratifying to me if the analyses of these "Symphonic Poems" in which, a few years ago, Felix Draseke discussed them severally in the Anregungen [Notices] could now be published by you all together in the form of a brochure, for they are written with a thorough knowledge of the subject, yet in a kindly spirit.
On this account I begged Dr. Brendel to discuss the matter with you, and now take the liberty of addressing you personally on the subject of my wish.