Series IV: Correspondence (Poulenc and Lambiotte family), 1946-1962, undated

An important archive consisting of approximately 100 letters (approximately 225 pages) spanning the years 1946 to 1962. The correspondence relates to musical matters including Poulenc’s own works and performances and performers of such, other composers, reminiscences, travel plans, and, at times, personal commentary regarding his attitudes, friends and associates, etc. The materials present a comprehensive overview offering significant insight into Poulenc’s life, both as composer and individual, over some 16 years.

The primary recipients of the letters are Madame Rose Lambiotte (1891-1964), sometimes referred to in the correspondence as “Mme. Chapdelaine,” her daughter Rosine, and, occasionally, Rose’s husband Auguste Lambiotte. The family lived in Belgium and Poulenc often stayed with them, referring to them as “his Belgian family.” The correspondence files include letters as well as cards, photographs, and newsclippings which were included in the correspondence.