ABSTRACT
Leeds, in the mid nineteenth century, was experiencing dynamic development through urbanisation and industrialisation. The Victorian era was a time of competitive commercialism, when a new consciousness of local and civic pride developed that encouraged displays of wealth and prosperity. The erection of public buildings was an integral part of this movement, and was often an expression of the intense rivalry between neighbouring communities. The towns of Leeds and Bradford provide a perfect example of this phenomenon. It was, arguably, municipal competition between the two towns that gave the impetus for the building of Leeds Town Hall. The correspondence between Leeds and the other venues offers fascinating insights into the philosophy, finances, and organisation surrounding the engagement and day-to-day running of a municipal organ and its organist in the nineteenth century. Victorian councils were frugal on principle, and yet many were prepared to spend money on an expensive instrument and a musician to give it voice.
