Biography of Erik Chisholm
Chasing A Restless Muse
Chisholm’s astonishing legacy as composer and entrepreneur has never been properly presented, never mind assessed. Published by Boydell and Brewer, the biography by the author of 'Scotland’s Music' is the first full study of the man and his music.
Erik Chisholm was a musician of rare capabilities. He was a pianist and organist, a conductor, a composer, a lecturer on music, an entrepreneur and administrator and to all these he brought a unique blend of originality, flair and energy. After an early start as a performing pianist, Chisholm established himself in Glasgow as an important influence on the progress of music in Scotland and Scottish music in general. He founded the Active Society for the Propagation of Contemporary Music and through this and the Glasgow Grand Opera Society, he brought many first performances to that city. Berlioz's Les Troyens, for example, was first heard in the UK under his baton, as was Beatrice and Benedict and Mozart’s Idomeneo. He formed many other organisations including the Scottish Ballet Society and in the meantime composed prolifically. Chisholm’s passion for traditional Scottish music should also be noted.