1903

Summary

In addition to his duties at the Birmingham and Midland Institute, Bantock continued his work as a conductor and adjudicator. The Witch of Atlas was published in full score, and there were performances of his Cavalier Tunes and the symphonic poem Lalla Rookh (the premiere) in Birmingham, Russian Scenes at the Queen's Hall in London, The Witch of Atlas in Liverpool and ‘The Wilderness’ (an orchestral interlude from Christus) at the Hereford Festival. Bantock continued to press for Newman's appointment at the Institute as a teacher of music theory and singing, and finally got his way. In January Newman published an article on Richard Strauss in the Fortnightly Review and on 23 February gave the first of his illustrated lectures for Bantock, ‘The Development of the Song in Modern Europe’. Wallace (whose friendship with Bantock was restored) continued to be active as a composer, publishing the song setting of his own text, ‘Mistress Vanity’.

154 GRANVILLE BANTOCK TO ERNEST NEWMAN

BIRMINGHAM AND MIDLAND INSTITUTE.

SCHOOL OF MUSIC.

PARADISE STREET,

BIRMINGHAM,

STRATHFIELD.

Jan 2^nd 1903

My dear Will

The “Harold” score has been dispatched to you today. Many thanks for the loan; I have all the notes necessary, so do not return it. I got Saville to send you yesterday the Franz song, so would be glad if you could send me a complete list of the words of the songs in the order, as you wish them printed in the programme for your lecture. The sooner the better. Your Strauss article, which we have just read is excellent, and you have given me several new ideas. You seem to get to the very root of the matter, and your analysis is always easy to follow & comprehend. I am delighted altogether with it, and anticipate it will do you some good. You will, of course, send the Review to Strauss, & to Huneker.

Old Gibbons was here on New Year's Eve & spent the night, bringing in the New Year. He will be looking you up shortly, as he expects to be in Liverpool this month or next for a few days.