A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Hecht, Eduard
HECHT, Eduard, born at Dürkheim im Haardt, Nov. 28, 1832. He was trained at Frankfort by his father, a respected musician, then by Jacob Rosenhain, Christian Hauff, and Messer. In 1854 he came to England and settled in Manchester, where he remained until his death. From a very early date in the history of Mr. Charles Hallés Concerts, Hecht was associated with him as his chorus-master and sub-conductor. But in addition to this he was conductor of the Manchester Liedertafel from 1859 to 1878; from 1860 conductor of the St. Cecilia Choral Society; and from 1879 conductor of the Stretford Choral Society. In 1875 he was appointed Lecturer on Harmony and Composition at Owens College; and was also Examiner in Music to the High Schools for Girls at Manchester and Leeds. In addition to these many and varied posts Mr. Hecht had a large private practice as teacher of the piano. These constant labours, however, did not exhaust his eager spirit, or deaden his power of original composition. Besides a Symphony played at Mr. Hallés Concerts; a chorus, 'The Charge of the Light Brigade,' well known to amateurs; 'Eric the Dane,' a cantata; another chorus with orchestra, 'O, may I join the choir invisible'—all great favourites with singing societies—Mr. Hecht's works extend through a long list of pianoforte pieces, songs, part-songs, trios, two string quartets, inarches for military band, etc., closing with op. 28.
Mr. Hecht died very suddenly at his home on March 7, 1887. He was beloved by all who knew him for his enthusiasm and energy, his pleasant disposition, and his sincere and single mind. To his musical duties he brought a quick artistic instinct, a scrupulous conscientiousness, and a pure unselfish love of his art; and it will be difficult to fill his place in the neighbourhood which he had for so long made his own.