Autograph Letter Signed

One page, in German, with an integral blank leaf; Lucerne, 1872 April 13, to the noted bass-baritione Karl Hill. Hill was an eccentric and difficult artist with a rather unsavory reputation . Nevertheless Wagner was seriously thinking of engaging him having heard from friends that his artistry was of the highest caliber. This letter concerns Wagner's desire to engage him for the upcoming premier of 'The Ring of the Niebelung" in Bayreuth. Wagner writes: "I know you well enough by reputation to have thought seriously about using you in my projected performance. I am planning next fall and winter to review all the availble musical and mimetic resources, for which I have had no time in recent years....If I did not know you, I should have had to go to my old friend Betz in Berlin who has already agreed to sing the baritone solo at Beethoven's 9th Symphony...". Wagner's reference to the Beethoven 9th concerns the special performance held on May 22, 1872 when the foundation stone of the Bayreuth Festspielhaus was laid. Wagner was indeed able to engage the elusive Hill who premiered the roles of Alberich and Klingsor in Parsifal some years later. Hill's career lasted until the early 90s when he was institutionalized after suffering a nervous breakdown. He died soon thereafter. Some age toning otherwise a wonderful Wagner letter, strong and clean with excellent content.. Excellent.