Walter Bergmann (musician) facts for kids

Walter Bergmann (born September 24, 1902, died January 13, 1988) was a talented musician. He played the harpsichord and recorder. He was also an editor and composer. Walter was from Germany but moved to England in 1939. He became very important in bringing back interest in the recorder. He also helped people learn about older music in England after World War II.

A New Start in England

Walter Bergmann was born in Altona, Hamburg, a part of Hamburg, Germany. He first studied piano and flute at the University of Music and Theatre Leipzig. But times were difficult, so he decided to study law instead. He wanted a more practical job. In 1933, he started his own law office. He helped many Jewish clients during a tough time in Germany.

In 1938, Walter was arrested. After three months, he moved to London, England, in March 1939. His wife, Greta, and daughter, Erica, joined him later. Like many other musicians from Germany at that time, Bergmann was held in a camp. This happened in 1940 on the Isle of Man. He was released in 1941.

Music Career in England

After his release, Bergmann started working in music publishing. He began at Schott Music in 1942. He later became an editor there. He worked on music from the Baroque period. This included works by composers like Telemann, Handel, John Blow, and Henry Purcell.

Walter also taught music for many years. He taught at Morley College from 1942 to 1954. He also taught at the Mary Ward Settlement. As a performer, he played with famous singers. These included Alfred Deller, Ilse Wolf, and April Cantelo. He performed at Deller's Stour Festival. He also recorded Purcell's music with Deller. In 1963, he even translated an opera called King Priam into German.

Bringing Back the Recorder

Bergmann was very passionate about the recorder. He taught many young players. He encouraged musicians like Frans Brüggen and Michala Petri. In 1946, he helped restart the Society of Recorder Players. He made many people interested in playing the recorder again. He also helped bring back Early Music in the UK.

At Schott Music, where he worked until 1967, Bergmann published many recorder pieces. These included sonatas and suites. He published works by composers like Francesco Barsanti, Charles Dieupart, and Johann Christian Schickhardt. Walter also composed his own music. He wrote two sonatas for the recorder. For Alfred Deller, he composed a Pastorale for countertenor and recorder. He also wrote Three Songs for countertenor and guitar. These pieces have been recorded.

Later Life

Walter Bergmann also edited the Eulenburg edition of miniature music scores. He continued to teach in London for many years. He kept his interest in music history and study throughout his life. He lived in London at 28 Belsize Square. In 1982, a special concert was held for his 80th birthday. Walter Bergmann passed away in London when he was 85 years old.

See also

• List of émigré composers in Britain