In the world of classical music, Theodore Presser Publishing is an integral part of the music publishing landscape in the United States. Based in Malvern, Pennsylvania, Presser is one of the oldest classical music publishers in the country and has an impressive history of over 140 years.
In October 1883, the publishing house was founded by Theodore Presser, who launched the music magazine The Etude in Lynchburg, Virginia, with only 250 US dollars in capital. This magazine was aimed primarily at piano teachers and immediately enjoyed great popularity. Its success was so overwhelming that Presser sought larger premises in Philadelphia the following year and laid the foundations for his publishing empire with innovative ideas such as mail order for national subscriptions.
The need to publish new repertoire for The Etude soon led to Presser also publishing new musical works – first in his magazine and then as an independent publishing house, the Theodore Presser Company. The purchase of the John Church Company in 1930 and the acquisition of the Oliver Ditson Company in 1931 significantly expanded the portfolio and reach of the publishing house. These moves made Presser the oldest continuous music publisher in the US, with origins dating back to 1783.
Commitment to the music and the musicians
Theodore Presser’s commitment to music and musicians is evident not only in the publication of sheet music, but also in his social responsibility. In 1916, he established the Presser Foundation, which, among other things, set up a retirement home for piano teachers. Even today, the foundation promotes musical education through scholarships and support for schools, thus contributing to the dissemination of knowledge and art.
Quality and vision for the future
Today’s Theodore Presser Company remains true to the values Theodore Presser established more than a century ago: Integrity in service to music and musicians, an unwavering commitment to quality, and a viable vision for the future of the music publishing industry. In addition to helping publish and distribute sheet music, the publishing company supports numerous orchestras, ensembles and universities around the world through its music rental and custom printing divisions.
In the 1950s, composer George Rochberg joined the publishing house as editor and attracted the renowned William Schuman, laying the foundation for Presser’s role in the field of American symphonic and chamber music. Today, the Theodore Presser Company is considered a leader in the field and is proud to carry many important composers and works in its catalog.
Theodore Presser Publishing has established itself not only as a cornerstone in American music history, but also as a pioneer in the field of music education and publishing. With over 140 years of experience, the publishing house is a guarantor of quality and innovation. Driven by the vision and dedication of its founder, Presser remains an indispensable institution in the world of classical music.
New publication from the Presser publishing house:
