is not only beautiful, but wonderful; it captivates both the ear and the heart.
“No one can ever reproach you with regard to the technical part of your work, which deserves unqualified praise.”
To Modeste Tchaikovsky.
“Moscow, December 4th (16th), 1886.
“My dear Modi,—Something very important happened to-day. I conducted the first orchestral rehearsal in such style that all were astonished (unless it were mere flattery), for they had expected I should make a fool of myself. The nearer came the terrible day, the more unbearable was my nervousness. I was often on the point of giving up the idea of conducting. In the end I mastered myself, was enthusiastically received by the orchestra, found courage to make a little speech, and raised the bâton. Now I know I can conduct, I shall not be nervous at the performance.”
To N. F. von Meck.
“Moscow, January 14th (26th), 1887.
“My very dear Friend,—I have been enjoying your hospitality for a week.[117] I live in your house as if under the wing of Christ. Your servants are so careful of my welfare that I cannot praise them enough. I only regret that I can be so little at home. Daily rehearsals. I take a walk every morning, and by eleven o’clock I am waiting in the conductor’s desk. The rehearsal is not over till four o’clock, and then I am so tired that when I return home I have to lie down for a while. Towards evening I feel better and take some food.