Britten Pears Visits MOMH to Explore Collection
The Museum of Music History (MOMH) was honoured to welcome Nick Clark and Christopher Hilton from the Britten Pears Archive to its offices in Haddenham for a special visit focused on the Beatrice Harrison collection. This gathering brought together key figures from both organisations for an engaging day of discussion, collaboration, and exploration of one of MOMH’s treasured collections.
Joining the meeting from MOMH were Chairman Mark Bromley, Trustee Nick Roberts, volunteer archivist Dr. Paul Stubbings, curator Dr. Alice Little, and general manager Dr. Kate Kennedy. Together, they offered an in-depth look at MOMH’s work and history, highlighting the institution’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Britain’s rich musical heritage.
The visit provided an opportunity for MOMH to showcase the ongoing cataloguing efforts surrounding the Beatrice Harrison collection, a task currently being undertaken by dedicated volunteers under Dr. Little’s supervision. The collection, which offers a fascinating insight into the life and work of the pioneering cellist, includes photographs, letters, concert programs, and recordings, reflecting Harrison’s significant contributions to the world of classical music.
Discussions during the day covered a range of topics, including the challenges and rewards of cataloguing such extensive and varied collections. The Britten Pears team shared their expertise in archival management, drawing parallels with their own work preserving the legacy of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears. Volunteering also emerged as a key theme, with MOMH highlighting the crucial role played by its team of volunteers in maintaining and enhancing the museum’s collections.
Nick Clark and Christopher Hilton expressed their admiration for the dedication and professionalism of MOMH’s team, commending the museum’s efforts to engage local communities and music enthusiasts in the preservation of musical history.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the MOMH team to reflect on the broader history of the museum and its evolution over the years. Chairman Mark Bromley emphasized MOMH’s mission to make music history accessible to all, a goal that aligns closely with the educational and outreach initiatives of the Britten Pears Archive.
Trustee Nick Roberts and volunteer Dr. Paul Stubbings contributed valuable perspectives on the importance of engaging performers in the preservation of musical heritage, noting how the Beatrice Harrison collection offers a bridge between historical scholarship and the living practice of music.
Dr. Kate Kennedy underscored the significance of partnerships like this one in broadening MOMH’s impact, noting that such collaborations create opportunities for knowledge exchange and inspire innovative approaches to museum practice.
As part of the visit, Nick Clark and Christopher Hilton had the chance to view selected items from the Beatrice Harrison collection, which sparked lively discussions about Harrison’s life, her pioneering use of radio broadcasts, and her artistic legacy.
The day concluded with a shared commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaboration between MOMH and the Britten Pears Archive. Both organizations look forward to exploring future opportunities to work together in preserving and promoting Britain’s rich musical heritage.
This visit marks a milestone in MOMH’s ongoing efforts to connect with fellow institutions and celebrate the stories behind its collections, ensuring they inspire future generations of music lovers.