LETTERS
OF
FELIX MENDELSSOHN.
In 1824 Moscheles was engaged on a professional tour, giving concerts in
the principal cities of Germany. During his short stay in Berlin, and in
response to the two following notes from Mendelssohn’s mother, he gave
some instruction to Felix, then in his fifteenth year. How fully he,
even at this early period of their acquaintance, recognized the genius
of the young composer, is shown by an entry in his diary. He says: “I am
quite aware that I am sitting next to a master, not a pupil.”
* * * * *
BERLIN, Nov. 18, 1824.
We much regretted not to see you at dinner to-day; pray let us have the
pleasure of your company, if not earlier, at least next Sunday. Have you
kindly thought over our request concerning lessons? You would sincerely
oblige us by consenting, if you could do so without interfering with
the arrangements you have made for your stay in this place. Please do
not set down these repeated requests to indiscretion, but attribute them
solely to the wish that our children should be enabled to profit by the
presence of the “prince des pianistes.”
With sincere regards, yours,