Franz, Oscar - Lied Ohne Worte (Song Without Words) for Horn and Piano

Oscar Franz (1843-1886) is still probably known to the majority of Horn players as the author of a "celebrated, important theoretical-practical French Horn Method Book." This book still enjoys wide popularity today, approximately 100 years after its first publication. What is remarkable about this method book is that Oscar Franz dealt with not only perfect technique, but also allotted special importance to the music execution. An entire chapter is devoted to proper phrasing; sensible division of the melodic line.
The biographical information about Oscar Franz is scanty. When he was 21, he was mentioned in the "Journal of the Royal Saxhorn Court Theater at Dresden" as a candidate for a post with the court musicians, and, in 1867, became a member of the court musicians. (One of his brothers, Bruno, was also later engaged as a Horn player). In 1884, Richard Strauss dedicated his Horn Concerto opus 11 to "the Royal Saxon Chamber musician, Herrn Oscar Franz, amiably..." But, a performance by Franz did not take place until January 29, 1886, in Dresden.
From the teacher O. Franz there is a direct line, over his student Friedrich Adolf Borsdorf, to Aubrey and Dennis Brain.
Probably more in connection with his pedagogical works, transcriptions of well-known pieces for Horn and Piano as well as compositions for two and four horns were prepared. Of the works designed with an opus number, an "Adagio", op. 11 the "Song Without Words", op. 2; and a concert piece for two horns and orchestra, op. 4 have been printed. It appears that what remains of Franz's preserved musical work has been scattered to the winds; the Saxon state library has not preserved any of the manuscripts in its collections. Oscar Franz died at the age of 43 on September 24th, 1886.
The "Song Without Words" fell into my hands by chance. By pure accident while I was looking for an encore piece, I pulled it out of a bundle of old music and I am very pleased with it.
Since the first performance, I have received numerous requests for a copy of this piece. This McCoy Horn Library edition should fill this need.
Much can be said, without words, about this "Song Without Words".
I wish you great enjoyment!