Correspondence with Ernest Newmann

  • Reference
    • GB 133 GDN/A/N15
  • Dates of Creation
    • 5 Apr 1905-12 Jul 1959
  • Physical Description
    • 30 pieces; 37 sheets

Scope and Content

Correspondence with Ernest Newman [formerly William Roberts] (1868-1959), music critic, relating to praise of Newman's notes on Hallé Orchestra concerts, and offer of post as music critic at the Manchester Guardian, which is accepted, with discussion of requirements, terms and salary, and of Newman's work with the Hallé Orchestra, and for other publications.

There is a letter of resignation from Newman, with an apology, owing to his ill health whilst living in Manchester, and discussion of Newman's views on potential replacements, with a recommendation for Ferruccio Bonavia, violinist and music critic. There is a letter from [Herbert] Sidebotham, journalist, relating to discussion of potential music critics for the paper, which suggests that Newman might consider returning to employment at the Manchester Guardian.

There is an offer of re-employment made by Scott to Newman, and discussion of his provision of a regular weekly article on music from London, which is accepted, with discussion of content for the articles, salary, and assurances that the article will not clash with similar work by Newman for The Observer. There is reference to Newman's disinclination to provide reviews and notices of concerts, a dislike of working late into the night, and to his wife's ill health, and a move from Birmingham to London. Also included is discussion of the importance of Newman's work not overlapping with that of Bonavia, as music critic for the paper, and of the proposed division of work. There is correspondence relating to an increase in payment for Newman's articles, as they are to be reproduced in the Manchester Guardian Weekly, and discussion of the proposed title for the column, for which Newman suggests 'A London Musical Causerie', rather than 'Music in London'. There is a further letter of resignation from Newman, owing to the offer of work at a great increase in salary, and a request from Scott for a recommendation for a successor, with discussion of a potential change in the format of music criticism in the paper, and the intention of offering the position to Eric Blom, music critic and lexicographer, at Newman's behest.

GDN/A/N15/29 is an article entitled 'University Music Lectureship, Mr Ernest Newman Appointed' in the Liverpool Post, 1934.

GDN/A/N15/30 is an obituary for Newman in The Observer, 1959.