A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Harmonic Union, The

by George Grove

HARMONIC UNION, THE. A society based on subscriptions, 'for the performance of sacred and secular music both of the Ancient and Modern Schools,' and particularly of living composers, with Solos, Chorus and Orchestra. The first proposal was issued in July, 1852, Mr. Benedict was chosen conductor, and Mr. Blagrove leader; the concerts took place at Exeter Hall, and the subscription was £3 3 per head. The first was held on Dec. 17, 1852, the programme being Motet No. 6, J. S. Bach, and the oratorio of Joseph by C. E. Horsley. Others followed at about a month's interval until Feb. 23, 1854, which appears to have been the date of the last. Many new works were brought forward, such as Horsley's Joseph; Macfarren's Lenora; Pierson's Jerusalem; F. Mori's Fridolin; Symphony (G minor) by C. E. Stephens—besides the Messiah, Acis and Galatea (with Mozart's accompaniments), Alexander's Feast, Ruins of Athens, Elijah, Walpurgisnight, Midsummer Night's Dream, etc.

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