Unveiling the Legacy of Watson Forbes: Viola Maestro and Arranger
Watson Forbes stands as a towering figure in the world of viola and musical arrangement. His exceptional skills and innovative approach have left an indelible mark on chamber music and orchestral compositions. Forbes’ mastery of the viola and his keen ear for arrangement have shaped the landscape of classical music, inspiring generations of musicians and composers.
Throughout his career, Watson Forbes made significant contributions to the viola repertoire and revolutionized the art of musical arrangement. His work as a performer, composer, and arranger has had a profound impact on the development of chamber music. This article explores Forbes’ musical journey, his influence on chamber music, and his enduring legacy as an arranger and composer, shedding light on the remarkable achievements of this viola maestro.
The Evolution of Watson Forbes’ Musical Career
Watson Forbes’ musical journey began in St Andrews, Scotland, where he was born on November 16, 1909. His parents, who owned a jeweler’s shop, provided him with his first exposure to music. Forbes’ father, a Scottish country fiddler, introduced him to the violin, laying the foundation for his future career in music.
From Violin to Viola: A Fortuitous Shift
At the age of 12, Forbes made his first successful appearance in a school concert. Interestingly, he later confessed that at the time, he was more captivated by the yellow stockings and red garters he proudly wore with his kilt than the music itself. This early performance, however, marked the beginning of his musical journey.
As Forbes’ talent blossomed, he was sent to the Royal Academy of Music in London at the age of 16. There, he studied violin, viola, and composition, honing his skills and expanding his musical repertoire. It was during this time that a serendipitous event occurred, shaping the course of his career.
The viola player in the Academy quartet had been offered a position in the newly formed BBC Symphony Orchestra, leaving a vacancy. With viola players being scarce, Forbes was persuaded to take up the instrument during his summer holidays. Upon his return, he performed so successfully in an Academy concert that he decided he preferred the viola to the violin. This fortuitous shift would go on to define his musical career.
Joining the London Philharmonic Orchestra
Forbes’ transition to the viola opened new doors for him. He auditioned for the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as a violinist but mentioned his ability to play the viola as well. This led to an opportunity to perform at the Queen’s Hall, where he had to play what he described as “a terrible part” in Beethoven’s Coriolan overture. Adding to the challenge, Forbes had to memorize the part as he was still unable to read the viola clef.
Wartime Musical Activities
At the onset of World War II, Forbes had established himself as a joint leader of the London Symphony Orchestra. However, from 1940 onwards, his musical career took a different turn as he joined the RAF Symphony Orchestra. This ensemble contained numerous small groups of chamber music players, all renowned soloists in their own right.
During this period, Forbes toured the UK as part of a piano quintet, performing alongside notable musicians such as Denis Matthews, Frederick Grinke, and James Whitehead. He also made frequent appearances in Myra Hess’s concerts at the National Gallery, contributing to the cultural life of wartime Britain.
Forbes’ involvement with the Stratton Quartet further solidified his reputation in the chamber music world. The Stratton was Elgar’s preferred quartet, and their recordings of his String Quartet and Piano Quintet in 1933 were the music the composer chose to listen to on his deathbed. Forbes remained with the Stratton for the rest of its existence, cementing his place in the annals of British classical music.
Forbes’ Contribution to Chamber Music
Watson Forbes made significant contributions to chamber music throughout his career, particularly in the realm of string quartets. His involvement with prestigious ensembles and his dedication to promoting string quartet music left an indelible mark on the genre.
The Stratton Quartet Years
Forbes’ journey in chamber music began with an invitation to join the Stratton Quartet, which set the direction for his career. The Stratton Quartet held a special place in the musical world, being Elgar’s preferred ensemble. In 1933, they recorded Elgar’s String Quartet and Piano Quintet, which became the music the composer chose to listen to on his deathbed. Forbes remained with the Stratton Quartet until the end of its existence, solidifying his reputation as a skilled chamber musician.
Aeolian String Quartet Performances
After World War II, Forbes continued his quartet work with the Aeolian String Quartet, which was essentially a renamed version of the Stratton Quartet following George Stratton’s departure. The Aeolian String Quartet became renowned for their performances and recordings. They toured extensively, performing in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Australia, and various European countries. The quartet made significant appearances at the Edinburgh Festival in 1970 and 1972.
One of their most notable achievements was the groundbreaking televised performance of all Beethoven’s late quartets for BBC Two, broadcast on five consecutive nights in March 1975. This series was later repeated in other countries, bringing chamber music to a wider audience. The Aeolian String Quartet also recorded the theme tune for the popular BBC comedy “Fawlty Towers” in 1975.
Promoting String Quartet Music
Forbes’ dedication to chamber music extended beyond performance. As a professor at the Royal Academy of Music, he taught not only viola but also chamber music, with a particular focus on string quartets. His passion for the genre inspired many of today’s professional string players, who remember him as an inspirational teacher.
Throughout his career, Forbes demonstrated his commitment to promoting string quartet music through his performances, recordings, and teaching. His work with both the Stratton and Aeolian quartets helped to popularize the genre and bring it to new audiences, contributing significantly to the development and appreciation of chamber music in the 20th century.
Legacy as an Arranger and Composer
Watson Forbes’ enduring legacy as an arranger and composer has had a profound impact on the world of classical music, particularly for the viola. His contributions have expanded the instrument’s repertoire and influenced viola education worldwide.
Expanding the Viola Repertoire
Throughout his career, Forbes worked tirelessly to broaden the viola’s musical landscape. He created an extensive series of arrangements, including pieces by renowned composers such as Rameau and Bach. These arrangements were not mere transcriptions but thoughtful adaptations that showcased the viola’s unique tonal qualities and expressive capabilities. Forbes’ arrangement of Rameau’s celebrated Tambourin and Bach’s Sinfonia stand as testaments to his ability to place melodies in the most effective register of the viola.
Popular Arrangements for Various Instruments
While Forbes is best known for his viola arrangements, his work extended to other instruments as well. He created arrangements for violin, cello, and several wind instruments, demonstrating his versatility as an arranger. His adaptations of pieces like the 19th-century composition known as ‘Nardini’s Concerto’ have become popular among string players worldwide.
Impact on Viola Education Worldwide
Forbes’ arrangements and compositions have had a significant influence on viola education. His work has inspired generations of violists to explore the instrument’s potential and push the boundaries of its repertoire. As a professor at the Royal Academy of Music, Forbes taught not only viola but also chamber music, with a particular focus on string quartets. His passion for the genre and his arrangements have become integral to the education of many of today’s professional string players, who remember him as an inspirational teacher.
Conclusion
Watson Forbes’ remarkable career as a viola maestro and arranger has left an enduring mark on the classical music world. His journey from violinist to violist, his contributions to chamber music, and his innovative arrangements have shaped the landscape of string music. Forbes’ work has had a significant impact on expanding the viola repertoire and enhancing viola education globally.
Forbes’ legacy goes beyond his performances and compositions. His passion for teaching and promoting string quartet music has inspired generations of musicians. The musical world continues to benefit from his groundbreaking arrangements and his dedication to showcasing the viola’s unique qualities. Forbes’ influence remains alive in concert halls, music schools, and the hearts of string players worldwide.
