Scope and arrangement
The Samuel E. Heyward Papers, 1917-1982, have been divided into five series; PERSONAL PAPERS, GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE, WRITINGS-MUSIC, ORGANIZATIONS FILE and PRINTED MATERIAL. The collection principally reflects Heyward's professional life and activities, particularly his career as a performer; a significant portion of the collection consists of music manuscripts arranged and/or composed by him.
The Samuel Edwin Heyward papers are arranged in five series:
-
The series contains scattered files and biographical data, sketches and programs, performance materials, contracts, family papers and financial records.
-
The series consists of letters received from organizations concerning programs, acknowledgments and solicitations. The correspondence reflects Heyward's involvement in charitable affairs, organizations and musical events.
-
The series forms the major part of the collection and consists of manuscripts of Heyward's compositions, lyrics and arrangements, as well as music and lyrics Heyward copied and perhaps performed (Collected). There are several of his original compositions; “Ballad of Harry Moore,” “Checkin' on the Freedom Train,” “Dance of the Bees,” an operetta, the “Elfin Ballet Suite,” and several collaborations with Massie Patterson, the folksinger. The second largest category is musical arrangements (for guitar in many cases) by Heyward.
-
The file is comprised of Heyward's files from his membership in the New Amsterdam Musical Association (NAMA), the Duke Ellington Society, the Overseas Jazz Club and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament Alumni. As president of the latter organization Heyward coordinated trips and musical programs for fundraising purposes.