Correspondence of the pioneering Polish-born harpsichordist and pianist to Herbert Bittner, a book publisher in New York. Each document on one leaf of Landowska's letter-size letterhead paper with the Lakeville, Conn." address. In English if not noted otherwise. In fine condition if not noted otherwise.

In chronological order:

1. Autograph endorsement of the book Makers of Opera by Kathleen O'Donnell Hoover (New York: H. Bittner, 1948). Lakeville, August 6, 1949. "I love Kathleen Hoover's Makers of Opera. It is a penetrating exposition of the key figures in opera's revolution, enhanced by illustrations of rare distinction. Wanda Landowska."

2. and 3. Two short typed endorsements of the same book, signed. No date.

4. Typed letter from Landowska to Bittner, signed "WL." October 24, 1949. Landowska expects an overdue message from Bittner and asks him to call her at home. Grease stain to left foot.

5. Typed letter from Landowska to Bittner, signed in German, "Herzlich Ihre Wanda Landowska." March 11, 1950. Landowska thanks Bittner for his call and apologizes for postponing her trip to New York. She suggests a few dates. She also refers to a letter by "Mr. Regnery," apparently the publisher Henry Regnery (1912-1996) and expressed delight about the idea of getting "my book" published by him. Penciled note to foot, in German, in different hand (probably Bittner's), "Wäre unmöglich" ("would be impossible").

In 1948, Bittner had published the book Makers of Opera by Kathleen O'Donnell Hoover. It may be assumed that Bittner requested the endorsement from Landowska (in its various versions) for advertising purposes. The book saw a three more editions (1954, 1955 and 1971), the last two no longer published by Bittner. Little is known about Bittner and his publishing business. The idea of Regnery publishing a book by Landowska is intriguing, but nothing became of it. Most likely she had an English version of her Ravel: Sa vie, son oeuvre (Paris, 1950) in mind, which was then her only book.