This week, the publisher that first published my work and with whom I have had a relationship for about 15 years sold their business to a different publishing firm. Walton Music was purchased by GIA. Everyone was speculating that Hal Leonard would have purchased the Walton brand, but apparently GIA made a better bid. So now, Eric Whitacre and Marty Haugen are with the same company.
I’m not sure what I think about this. I’m not sure if it’s good or bad or if it doesn’t matter. I just find it very strange that someone in the world just bought the rights to print and reproduce 8 of my works. Of course, no one asked for my opinion because I don’t own my works. Walton does…or did. Now GIA owns them.
It just feels a little weird. I feel a little violated, and I’m not sure why. I don’t have anything in particular against GIA. I hope it all works. GIA has released a press statement which you can read here. Maybe, part of the reason I feel a little strange is that everything is sort of happening by word of mouth right now. A friend told me Walton was selling the catalogue. A friend told me GIA won the bid. I haven’t heard from Walton or GIA.
My best wishes go to sweet Gunilla Luboff. I loved hearing her kind Swedish accent over the phone. I hope that she has a few more adventures in front of her.
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