February 1, 1922

Dear Mr. Tillet:

Please do not "over-read" the following: of course if the grammophone (sic) people insists on repeating the records, I will have to do it some time. But, the one time I did the thing first, I tried my own very best; played some of the pieces four times; of some we made two records, on my own suggestion, and together I worked with the best conscience and interest.

I do not see the probability that the records should improve by repeating, the new ones may prove just as little "satisfactory" as the original ones. And then? Had we to begin over again a third time?

The conditions are most unfavorable. The room, the piano, the chair not inviting. I have to start like a race horse and to end before four minutes have elapsed. I have to manage the touch and the pedal differently from how I do usually... What in heavens name, can be the result of it? Not my own playing, take it for granted! Please consider the objections seriously and put them before Mr. Brooks ( I think this is the name of the 'recording manager").

It is a good rule of the Englishman "Not to make a fool of himself." Reassure you, that we "continentals" have not less our pride and dignity, although we are considered to be only "paid artists." But I hope you think better of me. With kindest regards.

Yours very faithfully,

F. Busoni

February 19, 1922

Dear Mr. Tillet:

I wished you would read my letters. In the preceeding one I took the liberty of writing to you, that I felt

-tired
-Ill
-Imprepared!
and deprived of the music for the records.
-that, under these circumstances, the records would surely prove a repeated failure.

Certainly I could not do anything this Monday. Meanwhile have the kindness of communications with Mr. Brooks, and let me know the result of your conversation, based on my objections. If I had not conscience of having my very best the first time (with no success) I should not feel so hopeless now. Many thanks.

Yours devotely,

F. Busoni

(N.B. However, as is clear, he did try again , and a few of the results were deemed acceptable. In all, only eight discs were ever issued by Columbia ( transferred to CD on PEARL GEMM 9341) L-1432, 1445, 1456, 1470 (two issues for each number.)