Paul Hume (music critic)

Paul Hume (music critic). Paul Hume was an American music critic and editor best known for his long tenure at The Washington Post, where his reviews shaped the cultural landscape of the nation's capital. He gained national notoriety in 1950 following a scathing review of a concert by President Harry S. Truman's daughter, Margaret Truman, which prompted an angry handwritten response from the President. A respected and influential voice in classical music, Hume's career spanned over four decades and included significant contributions to music education and criticism.

Early life and education

Paul Hume was born on December 13, 1915, in Chicago, a major cultural hub. He developed an early passion for music, which he pursued academically at the prestigious University of Chicago. During his time at the university, he was deeply involved with the University of Chicago Chapel Choir, honing his practical understanding of vocal performance. His education provided a strong foundation in both the scholarly and practical aspects of music, preparing him for a career in criticism.

Career at The Washington Post

Hume joined the staff of The Washington Post in 1946, initially serving as the music editor before becoming the chief music critic. His reviews covered performances at major venues like Constitution Hall and the Kennedy Center, and he chronicled the rise of the National Symphony Orchestra under conductors such as Howard Mitchell and Mstislav Rostropovich. He also taught music history and appreciation at Georgetown University, influencing a generation of students. His writing was known for its erudition and high standards, making him a central figure in Washington, D.C.'s artistic community.

Truman controversy

The most famous incident of Hume's career occurred on December 6, 1950, after he reviewed a recital by the President's daughter, Margaret Truman, at Constitution Hall. In his critique for The Washington Post, he wrote that she "cannot sing very well" and that her performance "had little professional finish." In response, President Harry S. Truman famously penned a furious note on White House stationery, calling Hume an "eight-ulcer man on four-ulcer pay" and threatening to physically assault him. The letter was made public, creating a media sensation and a lasting anecdote in American political and cultural history, though it did not ultimately damage Hume's professional standing.

Later career and recognition

Following the Truman controversy, Hume continued his work at The Washington Post with undiminished authority, later becoming the newspaper's executive editor for the arts. He was a founding member and president of the Music Critics Association of North America, advocating for professional standards in the field. His contributions were recognized with awards, including the prestigious ASCAP-Deems Taylor Award for his writing. He remained a sought-after lecturer and commentator on music until his retirement, leaving a lasting legacy on arts journalism.

Personal life and death

Paul Hume was married to Ruth Hume, a writer and editor, and the couple had four children. He was a devoted Roman Catholic and an active member of his parish community in Washington, D.C.. After a long and influential career, Paul Hume died of pneumonia on November 27, 2001, in Washington, D.C., just shy of his 86th birthday. He was remembered by colleagues and the musical community as a critic of integrity who helped cultivate the cultural life of the nation's capital.

Category:American music critics Category:The Washington Post people Category:1915 births Category:2001 deaths