Judson, Arthur (1881-1975)
Judson, Arthur (1881-1975)
Between 1930 and 1950, Arthur Judson exerted unprecedented influence in the field of classical music in the United States, acting as unofficial chief advisor to the country's major symphony orchestras. The engagement of both conductors and soloists for symphony concerts depended, to an extraordinary degree, on his recommendations. Officially, Judson held dual positions as president of Columbia Concerts Corporation, the country's leading artists' management agency—which came to be known as "the Judson Empire"—and simultaneously managed the New York Philharmonic and Philadelphia orchestras. However, it was not only his powerful status that won the trust of orchestra boards, but his knowledge of music and his impeccable judgment of quality. To these virtues were added shrewd business sense, and an instinct for what would draw audiences. As artists' manager, he was known to represent only the finest musicians and, accordingly, won their confidence and loyalty. No one person since has taken control of classical music to the same extent as Arthur Judson.
—Milton Goldin
Further Reading:
Smith, Cecil. Worlds of Music. New York, Lippincott, 1952.