[Ernest Walker, musicologist and composer.] Autograph Letter Signed, written while assistant organist at Balliol College, Oxford, advising 'Miss White' [Maude Valérie White?] on her musical compositions.

4pp., 12mo. 65 lines of text. Bifolium. In fair condition: on aged paper with one dogeared corner. He begins by apologising for not returning her manuscript sooner: 'what with my Doctorate exam: and other things, I have been specially busy'. Having been 'completely through the MSS' he lists those he likes best: 'the Rhapsodies (especially No. 1 - also No. 5 and No. 3 - especially the opening subject of No. 5). I do like the G minor, but somehow I hardly think the G major section goes well with it, and it is scarcely so interesting, to my mind.' He comments on his favourites among the 'other things'. He gives his opinion regarding some 'Themes and Variations' in which 'it seems to me that you have tied yourself down harmonically more strictly than is necessary in modern variations'. He concludes with the opinion that she does not 'quite grasp the structural organism of sonata style, so to speak. I think your "métier" lies beyond any doubt more in the direction of detached pieces than of works which require sustained structural and organic interest and ideas different in atmosphere, so to speak, from those suitable for lyric music.' He will 'probably be in Anerley all the Christmas vacation', and would be 'very glad to call and talk over the things "viva voce"'.