| There are two music professionals who helped Leroy
Anderson early in his career as a composer. While Arthur Fiedler's role is well known, the
name of George Judd is unknown to most Leroy Anderson music fans. Upon George Judd's
retirement as Manager of the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 1954, Leroy Anderson wrote this
letter: "Dear Mr. Judd: I am sorry I was not able to
speak to you at the 1929 Night at the Pops (note: June 14, 1954). It was a memorable
occasion to me because it was for your own 25th Reunion Concert in 1936 that I wrote and
conducted the "Harvard Fantasy" at your invitation, and thus began the
association with Arthur that has been so fruitful to me. I want to tell you that I
appreciate the kindness you have always shown to me and that I shall never forget that it
was you who gave me the start to what has turned out to be a career. I wish you many happy
years of retirement. Sincerely, Leroy Anderson. (a July 6, 1954 letter)
"Dear Leroy, I was sorry myself to miss the 1929 night at
Pops, but I greatly appreciate the thoughtful letter which you sent me and count it as a
happy circumstance that I could have any part at all in your career. You did a lot for us,
and if there was reciprocity, - so much the better. Thanks again for your good wishes, and
may I extend my very best to you. Yours sincerely, George Judd, Manager, Boston Symphony
Orchestra. (an August 4, 1954 letter from Tanglewood (summer home of the Boston Symphony
Orchestra), Lenox, Massachusetts) |
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