Casken, John (b.1949)

settings of the three poems "I L'ombre des arbes"; "II Chevaux de bois"; "III Colloque sentimental"; the score written in pencil, on nine staves per page, 19 pages folio (c.36.5 x 26cms), 14-stave paper, paginated by the composer; the autograph pencil sketches, with deletions, aterations and revisions,  notated in various systems of up to sixteen staves per page, 22 pages, on various papers, up to large folio (c.42 x 30cms), 42 pages in all including autograph title wrapper, 17 April 2003-2006



Illustrated with the kind permission of the composer and Schott Music Ltd

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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This manuscript is remarkable for the light that the abundant and richly-worked sketches throw on the creation of this fine song-cycle, using poems also set by Debussy. 'Colloque sentimental' (from Fêtes galantes II) was first performed by Alison Smart and Katherine Durran at the Purcell Room on 13 July 2004, and the entire cycle by Patricia Rozario and Julius Drake at the Wigmore Hall on 28 September 2007.  Last year, John Casken's Orion over Farne (1984)was performed at the BBC Proms.