The Musical Quarterly
Oscar Sonneck opened the first issue of The Musical Quarterly in 1915. He served as editor until his death in 1928. This publication became the oldest academic journal on music in America. Sonneck shaped its initial editorial direction with a focus on serious scholarship. His leadership set a standard for future issues.
Carl Engel took over editing duties from 1930 to 1944 after Sonneck's passing. Gustave Reese held the position briefly between 1944 and 1945. Paul Henry Lang led the journal for nearly three decades starting in 1945. Joan Peyser edited the pages from 1977 through 1984. Eric Salzman concluded that era of succession by stepping down in 1991.
Leon Botstein began editing The Musical Quarterly in 1993. He simultaneously serves as president of Bard College. Botstein also acts as principal conductor of the American Symphony Orchestra. His tenure marked a new chapter for the journal since the early editors departed. Under his guidance, the publication continued its long history of academic rigor.
G. Schirmer Inc originally published The Musical Quarterly. This arrangement lasted until the publisher changed hands. Oxford University Press now handles all distribution and printing. The transition reflects broader changes within academic publishing during the late twentieth century. The shift ensured wider availability for scholars and students alike.
Articles published before 1923 remain available via the Internet Archive. These digitized copies preserve the earliest scholarship from the journal's first decade. Researchers can access Sonneck's original editorial choices today. The online archive allows global access to historical music criticism without physical constraints. Digital preservation keeps these records alive for future generations.
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Common questions
Who opened the first issue of The Musical Quarterly in 1915?
Oscar Sonneck opened the first issue of The Musical Quarterly in 1915. He served as editor until his death in 1928.
When did Carl Engel take over editing duties for The Musical Quarterly?
Carl Engel took over editing duties from 1930 to 1944 after Sonneck's passing. Gustave Reese held the position briefly between 1944 and 1945.
How long did Paul Henry Lang lead The Musical Quarterly starting in 1945?
Paul Henry Lang led the journal for nearly three decades starting in 1945. Joan Peyser edited the pages from 1977 through 1984 before Eric Salzman concluded that era by stepping down in 1991.
Which publisher currently handles distribution and printing for The Musical Quarterly?
G. Schirmer Inc originally published The Musical Quarterly. Oxford University Press now handles all distribution and printing following a transition during the late twentieth century.
Where can researchers access articles published before 1923 from The Musical Quarterly?
Articles published before 1923 remain available via the Internet Archive. These digitized copies preserve the earliest scholarship from the journal's first decade for global access without physical constraints.