Howard Taubman, American author and critic (b. 1907)

Hyman Howard Taubman (July 4, 1907 – January 8, 1996) was a highly influential American figure in the realm of arts criticism and literature, renowned for his extensive tenure as a music critic and later a theater critic for The New York Times, in addition to his significant contributions as an author.

A Distinguished Career in Journalism and Letters

Born on July 4, 1907, Hyman Howard Taubman dedicated over five decades of his life to chronicling and evaluating the performing arts, primarily through his esteemed roles at The New York Times, one of the world's most reputable news organizations. His insightful commentary and authoritative voice shaped public perception and understanding of music and theater for generations.

Prominent Roles at The New York Times

Taubman's career at The New York Times began in 1930. He rose through the ranks to become a leading voice in cultural journalism:

• Music Critic: From 1935 to 1955, Taubman served as the chief music critic for The New York Times. During this prolific period, he covered a vast spectrum of musical genres and performances, from classical orchestras and opera to emerging contemporary works. His reviews were widely respected for their analytical depth, balanced perspective, and ability to convey the essence of a performance to a broad readership. He reviewed performances by iconic figures and institutions, contributing significantly to the cultural discourse around music in America.
• Theater Critic: In 1955, Taubman transitioned to become the chief drama critic for the newspaper, a prominent position he held until 1966. In this role, he reviewed numerous Broadway productions and other theatrical endeavors, becoming an influential voice on American theater. His critiques were known for their judicious assessment, keen observation of acting and direction, and thoughtful engagement with the play's themes and cultural relevance.

After his tenure as chief drama critic, Taubman continued to contribute to The New York Times as a critic-at-large, covering a wider range of cultural topics and maintaining his connection to the arts until his retirement in 1972.

Literary Contributions as an Author

Beyond his extensive journalistic output, Hyman Howard Taubman was also a prolific author, penning several books that further showcased his expertise and passion for the arts. His published works often delved deeper into the history, theory, and personalities within the music and theater worlds. Notable books include:

• "Music on My Beat" (1943), a collection of his insightful music criticism.
• "How to Build a Record Library" (1947), reflecting his practical engagement with music appreciation.
• "The Maestro: The Life of Arturo Toscanini" (1951), a definitive biography of the legendary conductor, providing deep insights into Toscanini's life and artistry.
• "The Opera as Drama" (1960), a significant contribution to opera studies, exploring the dramatic elements inherent in operatic works.
• "The Pleasure of Their Company" (1964), offering a broader perspective on the performing arts.

These literary works cemented his legacy not just as a reviewer, but as a serious scholar and advocate for the arts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hyman Howard Taubman

Who was Hyman Howard Taubman?

Hyman Howard Taubman was a prominent American music critic, theater critic, and author who significantly influenced arts journalism in the 20th century, primarily through his extensive work for The New York Times.

What were Hyman Howard Taubman's main professional roles?

His primary roles included serving as the chief music critic for The New York Times from 1935 to 1955 and subsequently as the chief theater critic from 1955 to 1966. He also authored several influential books on music and theater.

For which publication was Hyman Howard Taubman best known?

He is most widely recognized for his long and distinguished career at The New York Times, where his critical reviews and cultural commentary were published for over four decades.

What types of books did Hyman Howard Taubman write?

He authored books on a variety of subjects related to the performing arts, including collections of his criticism, biographies of notable musical figures like Arturo Toscanini, and scholarly works on opera and music appreciation.