Margaret Broadwood Manuscript (“Tyrolienne” from William Tell by Rossini)

The Surrey History Centre houses music manuscripts owned by private families, including four from the Broadwood family. The Broadwoods were prominent piano manufacturers from the late 1770s until the mid-19th century. The earliest surviving manuscript of the family was owned by Margaret Broadwood (nee Stewart), as displayed in the signature "M Stewart, November 1801" on the inside cover. 

Margaret's manuscript contains various music, including popular songs from late 1790s London theater shows, country dance tunes, and complex pieces requiring high musical ability. For example, the piano part for Mozart's Violin Sonata in C major, K.296, demonstrates Margaret's piano skill, while Haydn's Hymn for the Emperor, for three voices and piano, suggests Margaret had a high level of musical education and surrounded herself with fellow musicians. It is assumed that, though still passionate about music, Margaret may have had less time for music after marrying James Shudi Broadwood in 1804. Her account books for their estate show her involvement in the house's operations and her interest in London theatre. She continued her musical education through low-cost purchases of music and songs. A later manuscript inscribed with her name suggests she continued her musical education.

Thus, this manuscript adds to the conversation of early women receiving education and specializing in the arts, specifically music. Additionally, it stresses the importance of traditional marital life and sparks the discussion about how design gave access to non-conforming identities for female artists.