Sims Reeves: Fifty Years of Music in England
By Charles E. Pearce
Published by Stanley Paul & Co. Ltd., London
First published in 1924 – this undated copy is likely a 1920s edition
This is an in-depth biography of John Sims Reeves, one of the most celebrated English tenors of the Victorian era. Written by Charles E. Pearce, it traces Reeves’ long and influential career across concerts, opera, and oratorio, and offers a wider view of the musical culture of 19th-century Britain.
Pearce was a noted music journalist and his account gives personal insight into Reeves' artistry, personality and legacy, as well as commentary on the musical scene across half a century.
This 1920s edition features:
Original dark cloth boards with gilt titles to spine and front
Portrait frontispiece and 16 half-tone illustrations
Rough-cut page edges typical of the period
Personal inscriptions dated 1987 and 1990 inside the front cover
Ex-libris stamp: Terry Luxon Library, Bulkington
Condition notes:
Some foxing throughout, mostly to the opening pages. A few of the early pages are partially loose at the bottom (see photo) but still attached at the top and intact. Binding otherwise solid and pages clean and legible.
A scarce and engaging book for collectors of antique music biographies, opera history, or early 20th-century publishing. This edition is becoming increasingly hard to find in the open market.