Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of February 1, 1873

Overview

The morning rehearsal goes well and allows Wagner to shape the orchestra in his own way, immediately changing its character. He and the narrator then enjoy a rare stretch of calm together, talking privately and thinking of their children. But the evening brings another social obligation, and even the arrival of the two Maries from the Empress’s circle cannot make it especially pleasant.

Content

Saturday, February 1:

R. feels better; we drive to the rehearsal in the Konzerthaus.

The conductors Eckert and Stern conduct for Richard, who positions the orchestra in his own way, so that it immediately sounds different. There are many young players from the city, who take their task seriously and look very intelligent.

After the rehearsal R. and I lunch happily together and are in good spirits during the afternoon, since we are undisturbed and, thinking of the children, chat about all sorts of things. R. has written to Betz, asking him if he is sticking by his rude behavior; Betz replies that he is always willing whenever Wagner calls on him, but not some intermediary.

In the evening a soiree at the Eckerts', not very pleasant, and it ends very late, since the two Maries join us after being with the Empress. (Prof. Nietzsche sends R. a paper on Hesiod.)