The Royal Musical Association claims to be the second oldest musicological society in the world, standing just behind its Dutch counterpart since its founding in 1874. This British scholarly society and charity began its journey under the name Musical Association, with a subtitle that explicitly defined its mission as the investigation and discussion of subjects connected with the Art and Science of Music. Sir John Stainer, a prominent figure in Victorian music, founded the organization, while his teacher, Sir Frederick Ouseley, served as the first president. The early days of the association were defined by a desire to elevate music from mere entertainment to a field of serious academic inquiry, establishing a community of scholars who would debate and publish on the complexities of musical history and theory.
Royal Ascension And Renaming
The organization underwent a significant transformation in 1944 when it was renamed the Royal Musical Association following the direct orders of King George VI. This royal patronage elevated the status of the group from a simple scholarly society to an institution with national prestige. Prior to this royal endorsement, the society had been registered as a company in 1904 and later as a charity in 1965, reflecting its evolving legal and social standing. The shift from the Musical Association to the Royal Musical Association marked a pivotal moment in its history, signaling a broader acceptance of musicology as a legitimate academic discipline worthy of royal attention and support.The Journal And Its Evolution
The Royal Musical Association publishes the Journal of the Royal Musical Association, which has undergone several name changes to reflect its growing scope and prestige. Before 1987, the publication was known as the Proceedings of the Royal Musical Association, often abbreviated as PMRA, and before 1945, it was simply the Proceedings of the Musical Association. These publications have served as a vital record of the association's intellectual output, with print holdings available from 1878 to 1986. The journal has provided a platform for scholars to present their findings, fostering a community of researchers who contribute to the understanding of music history and theory.Awards And Scholarly Recognition
The association is known for making awards for outstanding scholarship, most notably the annual Dent Medal. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional contributions to the field of musicology, encouraging scholars to pursue rigorous research and publish their findings. The Dent Medal serves as a testament to the association's commitment to advancing the study of music, providing a tangible reward for those who dedicate their careers to the investigation and discussion of musical subjects. Through these awards, the Royal Musical Association continues to support and inspire the next generation of musicologists.