Sir,—Gregory Allen’s article on Carl Hardebeck in the last issue was most welcome, especially at a time when Irish vocal music enjoys such popularity. The restoration of Hardebeck’s name and contribution should be of significant interest to all contemporary students of the art form.
It is ironic, however, that in crediting the editors and friends of the Capuchin Annual with making Hardebeck’s work better known and assisting him when in financial difficulties, Mr Allen omitted their names. The editor of the Capuchin Annual from 1930 to 1954 was Father Senan Moynihan, OFM, Cap., a Kerryman, and a giant in the preservation and promotion of Irish culture. While he often referred to Father Gerald MacCann, OFM, Cap. of Belfast, as the co-editor, there was, in fact, no co-editor at that time. Father Gerald edited the Father Mathew Record, a monthly publication of the Capuchin Fathers. The two editors co-operated in numerous ventures, including the Hardebeck Testimonial Committee, established in 1943 at the time of the Hardebeck symposium. James J. Campbell of Belfast served as Honorary Treasurer and T.J. Molloy of County Dublin as Honorary Secretary. Both were regular contributors to the Annual and members of its board. To raise money for the fund, major concerts were held in those two cities. A third concert was organised in New York City in 1945 by Máire Hegarty Ó Scannláin, a former pupil of Hardebeck and one of many overseas subscribers to the Annual. The fund was closed in 1948, having accomplished its purpose: it kept Carl Hardebeck from begging in the streets the last two years of his life, and it supported his widow after his death.
It is to be hoped that Gregory Allen’s research will revive interest in Carl Hardebeck’s work. It is also important to credit the name of the man who first motivated so many, near and far, to appreciate Hardebeck’s achievement and to relieve his misfortune. That man was Father Senan Moynihan.
—Yours etc.,
BERNARD T. HART
Rochester
New York