The future of music? I see it as I always have. Plato was a genius, Stravinsky was a genius, Boulez is a genius, and I believe that my little eight-year-old, Emile Naoumoff, is also a genius.
Nadia Boulanger, La Republique, 1971
"A Case So Rare that it is Difficult to Define"
This year, we're going to have at the school, (the American Conservatory in Fontainebleau), a little seven-year-old boy.
A little Bulgarian. He was brought to me this winter in Paris. And when I saw the seriousness of the little one,
who has already thought things through to an unusual extent, I was deeply moved. His mother asked him
"would you like to play some Bach for Mademoiselle Boulanger?" He began very well, and then stopped.
He told me "there might not be much time, so I would like to play some of my own music."
Among his pieces there was a minuet which already displayed unquestionable personality.
Nadia Boulanger, 1970
. . . I want only to give an assurance here of my complete devotion to the little one, who is marked by an unmistakable sign.
I don't think I'm mistaken in thinking that he will be amongst those who will bring honor to his country, and, in fact, to the whole world.
Nadia Boulanger , 1971
cA child with the most striking gifts. A miraculous ear, great intelligence, great love for music, enthusiasm, and desire to learn. A little bit incredible to meet such a child.
Nadia Boulanger, 1972
He is only fourteen, and he has already written many works which have been performed successfully.
Moreover, he possesses the joie de vivre and the conscience to struggle, as well as having a charming nature.
Nadia Boulanger, 1979
I don't want to leave without having said goodbye. I have too many things to tell you that you already know.
I don't say them to elicit gratitude, because I know that you understand what I have done for you.
But please realize that you have given me more than I have given you. With all my tender affection.
Nadia Boulanger, 1979
-This was Nadia Boulanger's last letter to Emile Naoumoff, a month before
her death-