Wagner's Letters

Richard Wagner to Franz Liszt

May 26, 1854

Overview

Wagner sends a short but urgent reply approving Liszt's draft to Berlin and insisting that the only acceptable payment model is royalties rather than a lump sum. He argues that generous, honorable treatment of the manager is the best way to secure frequent performances and lasting benefit from his operas.

Letter

Dear friend,

In a very few days I shall write to you at length, and at the same time explain to you why this letter is so short. For the present only this, because it must not be delayed: royalties, nothing else. If these royalties are to be lucrative - i.e., if my operas are to be given frequently - the manager must be well and sincerely inclined to the cause. Therefore we will treat him nobly. You have written most excellently.

Richard Wagner

Source: Project Gutenberg eBook #4234, Correspondence of Wagner and Liszt — Volume 2, No. 155