Benton, Thomas Hart. (1889-1975) Important American artist, muralist and regionalist painter. Teacher of the Abstract Expressionist painter Jackson Pollack.
Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, recto/verso, Quarto, on imprinted personal letterhead, Kansas City, MO, December 12, 1950.To Efrem Kurtz, conductor of the Houston Symphony Orchestra (1948-1954). Interesting letter concerning his son Thomas Jr., an aspiring flutist. Benton writes:
"Dear Efrem -- Our friends the Sheffreys are back with friendly reports of you and your doings. Rita and I greatly appreciate your interest in T.P. (young Tom ) our flute player. He is now a member of the N.Y. Union and is standing by in New York until he can find some kind of a place. Bill Schuman arranged for him to continue studying at Juillard and he is there now playing with their orchestra and doing other musical works..."
Bill Schuman, the American composer, was President of Juillard (1945-1962), and a friend of the Benton's. The artist goes on to ask Kurtz to speak with his son when the conductor comes to New York for the holidays, and then writes of his own work:
"...I am painting and writing. We are building a new house up in Chilmark and are in the midst of the usual architect - contractor - cost struggle. I will be in New Orleans during the month of March. If I can get someone to drive me I'll give you a weekend visit. Yours Tom."
Signed Twice, "Tom," at the close of the letter, and again "Thomas H. Benton" at the bottom of the verso page. An Interesting letter which shows this important American painter's close relationship to contemporary American classical music.
Fine.
Estimated Value $300-400.
