The first performance of my orchestra work, written in Sept. 1943 for the Koussevistzky Foundation took place on Dec. 1.2. in Boston. We went there for the rehearsals and performances – after having obtained the grudgingly granted permission of my doctor for this trip. It was worth wile [sic], the performance was excellent. Koussevitzky is very enthusiastic about the piece, and says it is ‘the best orchestra piece of the last 25 years’ (including the works of his idol Shostakovich!). At least this in his personal opinion - - -.