In 1969 Gerald Corey published Volume I, No. I of a newsletter entitled "To the World's Bassoonists." This newsletter called for "Intercommunication of Ideas and Events about the Bassoon." Jerry's knowledge of his subject and his extraordinary enthusiasm for this difficult undertaking resulted in acceptance and encouragement from a wide circle of bassoonists throughout the world, and the demand for a similar newsletter for oboists. Among those early supporters were Hugh Cooper, professor of bassoon at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor; and Alan Fox, well-known manufacturer of the bassoon which bears his name. Through the efforts of these three, and with the support of many, a meeting was held in 1971 to discuss the formation of a double reed society. As a result of that meeting, the Society met for the first time at the University of Michigan in 1972. At that time, the name of the Society was chosen -- the International Double Reed Society -- the basic scope of the new organization was defined; a working constitution was approved; and officers were chosen. The main objective, defined at that time was as follows:
The main objective of the International Double Reed Society is to give to double reed musicians, and all those interested in the problems and activities of performers, teachers, students, and manfacturers of double reed instruments and accessories, a means and body through which communication and fellowship can be fostered on a world-wide basis.
This objective has not changed! The publication of our newsletters and Journal represents the first step in the fulfillment of that goal. Newsletters are published three times a year and contain articles and features of interest in all areas of the double reeds. The Journal is designed for more detailed and scholarly reports from around the world. In the winter of 1972 the first edition of "To the World's Oboists" with Dan Stolper as editor became a reality. Then in 1978 the two newsletters were incorporated into the "Double Reed." These publications have remained outstanding and represent the major benefit of becoming a member of the Society. The second step was taken when a decision was made to have an annual meeting, and in 1973, we met at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. With Richard Rath as host, those members attending enjoyed two days of musical enlightenment, entertainment, and fellowship which set the standards for future meetings. Since that time the Society has met in Miami, Florida; Evanston, Illinois; Toronto, Canada; Evansville, Indiana; Los Angeles, California; and Columbus, Ohio. These meetings have seen performances, lectures, and clinics by such people as John Mack, principal oboist of the Cleveland Orchestra; Arthur Benade, author of "Horns, Strings, and Harmony;" Maurice Allard, foremost artist of the French bassoon; Lady Evelyn Barbirolli, one of the world's best known oboe soloists; Milan Turkovic, distinguished bassoonist from Vienna; and many, many others.
The society has instituted a special category of membership entitled Honorary. This distinction is reserved for those who have demonstrated a unique contribution to the world of the double reeds. Those so honored are Hans Moennig, Fernand Gillet, Karl Ohlberger, Benjamin Kohon, Robert deGourdon, and Lyndesay Langwill--certainly a distinguished group representing a cross section of world-wide contributions to our art.
Since its inception, the Society has truly attempted to be an international organization. The Ninth Annual Meeting in Edinburgh represents a major step in achieving that goal!
How can one describe such a unique and historic occasion? Fantastic! Marvelous! a once in a lifetime experience! The meeting in Edinburgh more than lived up to expectations. From the "Big Band" concert to the party on Friday evening, it was an unqualified success. With so many fabulous performances there is no way to pick out any one person or group, but it was such fun to hear performers from so many countries; to meet them; and to see members overcoming the barriers of language to discuss our art! How marvelous it was to meet Honorary Members Lyndesay Langwill and Karl Ohlberger; to meet with members of the International Board of Advisors -- Lady Evelyn Barbirolli, Laila Storch, Alan Fox, and Chris Weait; to feel the power of a room full of double reed artists standing in honor of the memory of Honorary Fernand Gillet; to hear the assembly vote unanimously for Leon Goossens as our 1980 Honorary Member; and to see exhibitors from many countries working together to make our meeting a success. l was proud to be present.
I cannot begin to thank everyone involved with this great meeting, but I do wish to extend my gratitude to our host, Laurence Taylor. Everyone present acknowledged the results of his leadership, his organizational ability, and dedication to the Society. "Thank you, Laurie -- thank you for a beautiful job! " I would also like to extend a special bouquet to Mrs. Taylor who was busy at every performance, "Bravo!"
Those members who were at Edinburgh will remember the fellowship found in sharing the art of the double reeds. I now ask all those members from outside North America to assist us in reaching others from throughout the world. Tell them about that meeting! Actively recruit new members; write for our publications. Members of the Society are TRULY interested in each other. Tell us about performances, new music, teaching methods, new recordings, or just plain talk about reedmaking. Share with us your experiences. Let us together use Edinburgh as the first steppingstone to full world-wide participation in the International Double Reed Society.
Sincerely, Lowry