John Reid, Scottish general (d. 1807)

General John Reid (13 February 1721 – 6 February 1807), a distinguished figure in British military history and a pivotal patron of the arts, left an indelible mark on both the armed forces and the cultural landscape of Scotland. Initially known as John Robertson, his legacy is perhaps most vividly remembered in Edinburgh, where his profound commitment to music led to the establishment of the prestigious Chair of Music at the University of Edinburgh.

A Career of Distinction: From Robertson to Reid

Born John Robertson in Perthshire, Scotland, on 13 February 1721, his life took a significant turn when he assumed the name John Reid. This change occurred in 1750, a condition of inheriting the valuable Straloch estate in Perthshire from his relative, John Reid of Straloch. This practice was not uncommon among landed gentry during the 18th century, ensuring the continuation of a family name and its associated properties.

His military career was extensive and decorated. He embarked on his service in 1745, joining the 42nd Regiment of Foot, famously known as the Black Watch. Reid saw active duty across several major conflicts of the era, including the War of the Austrian Succession, where he participated in the Battle of Fontenoy in 1745. He also served during the Seven Years' War (1756–1763) and later in the American War of Independence, rising steadily through the ranks. By 1798, he had achieved the esteemed rank of General, a testament to his long and dedicated service to the British Army.

Beyond the Battlefield: A Passionate Musician and Composer

Despite a rigorous military career, John Reid harbored a deep and enduring passion for music. He was an accomplished amateur flautist and also composed several pieces of music. His most notable composition, "The Garb of Old Gaul," written around 1757, became the regimental march for the 42nd Royal Highland Regiment. This piece, a spirited celebration of Scottish military tradition, endures as a powerful symbol of national identity and military pride.

His will explicitly stated that the interest from his substantial estate should be used for establishing a Chair of Music. This demonstrates not just a passing interest, but a strategic vision for the advancement of musical education and appreciation.

Pioneering Musical Education: The Reid Legacy in Edinburgh

General Reid's most enduring and celebrated contribution lies in his visionary endowment to the University of Edinburgh. Upon his death in 1807, his will stipulated the creation of a professorship dedicated to music. This led to the establishment of the prestigious Chair of Music at the University of Edinburgh in 1839, over three decades after his passing, once the legal processes surrounding his estate were concluded. This endowment was revolutionary, making Edinburgh one of the pioneering universities in the United Kingdom to formally integrate music into its academic curriculum at a professorial level.

The first incumbent of this distinguished position was Professor John Thomson, though it was Professor Sir Herbert Stanley Oakeley, appointed in 1865, who truly shaped the department into a prominent institution for musical study, in part thanks to the substantial funds provided by Reid's legacy for instrument acquisition and concert funding.

Today, General Reid's name is inextricably linked with the University's musical endeavors, manifesting in several key institutions:

• The Reid School of Music: This vibrant institution, an integral part of the University of Edinburgh's College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, stands as a direct testament to his vision. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, fostering the next generation of musicians, composers, and musicologists.
• Reid Concerts: A tradition established by General Reid's will, these annual concerts often commemorate his birthday and feature performances by students, faculty, and visiting artists, showcasing a diverse repertoire and maintaining a vibrant musical life within the university. His will also provided for the annual purchase of instruments, ensuring the department remained well-equipped.
• Reid Orchestra: Comprising talented students from across the University, the Reid Orchestra is a flagship ensemble, performing a diverse repertoire and providing invaluable practical experience for aspiring orchestral musicians.

Frequently Asked Questions about General John Reid

Who was General John Reid?

General John Reid was a distinguished British army general and a significant patron of music, particularly known for founding the Chair of Music at the University of Edinburgh. He was born John Robertson and changed his name upon inheriting the Straloch estate.

What was General Reid's primary contribution to the University of Edinburgh?

His most significant contribution was the endowment in his will that led to the establishment of the Chair of Music at the University of Edinburgh in 1839. This visionary act played a crucial role in formalizing music education within the university setting.

What is the "Reid School of Music"?

The Reid School of Music is the current name for the Department of Music within the University of Edinburgh. It is a leading institution for music education and research, directly benefiting from General Reid's original endowment and named in his honor.

Did General Reid have any musical talents himself?

Yes, General Reid was an accomplished amateur flautist and a composer. His most famous composition, "The Garb of Old Gaul," became the regimental march for the 42nd Royal Highland Regiment (the Black Watch).

Why did John Robertson change his name to John Reid?

He changed his name to John Reid in 1750 as a condition of inheriting the Straloch estate in Perthshire from a relative, John Reid of Straloch. This was a common practice in 18th-century Scotland for land inheritance.