Communications

This column provides a forum for responses to the contents of this journal, and for information of interest to readers. The editor reserves the right to publish letters in excerpted form and to edit them for conciseness and clarity.

To the Editor,

I am writing with regard to Prof. Ewelina Boczkowska's review of Przedpiekle Slawy. Rzecz o Chopinie by Piotr Witt. Readers of Notes 68, no. 3 (March 2012) are fortunate that its editor has devoted space for an expansive review of this important work. Unfortunately, while the review is long and detailed, it does not fully indicate the unique historical value of this book.

I take exception with the reviewer statement that prior to the Austrian Embassy concert in the Hotel Monaco on 30 December 1832, Chopin was doing well in Paris: he was recognized as a musical genius and a highly desired piano teacher only after this performance, decidedly not after the concert in the Salle Pleyel at 25 or 26 February 1832 that gained Chopin little attention. Chopin himself recognized that the sudden shift in circumstance, not a change in his music, brought him the success for which he had been waiting for months. The December concert was held in one of the most prestigious Parisian musical venues, frequented by well-known composers, instrumentalists, vocalists, music connoisseurs, and the cream of the society. They all knew that Princess de Vaudemont, well known, influential, respected and admired in the musical word, who just passed away, had extended her patronage over the young Polish pianist. In these circumstances, and partly as a tribute to the Princess, Chopin got his approval.

Although Prof. Boczkowska acknowledges Witt's "comprehensive investigation" and his book's "exquisite details", it is unfortunate that the review does not alert readers to the monograph's style and language. Witt is a master of a subtle, sophisticated humor and he leads his reader through nineteenth century Europe's romantic corners, conflicts, and superstitions. The entire book is spiced by his clever commentaries of the human nature and amusing, well narrated stories. Witt's work is essential reading for all Chopin admirers and scholars.