Lyrebird Music lawsuit

An Urgent Appeal from Malcolm Archer

My name is Malcolm Archer, and I find myself caught up in a devastating legal action initiated by an editor in France. He claims that a new edition I prepared for Lyrebird Music, which superseded his earlier version, is an exact reproduction of his work.

The facts are straightforward. After the publication of his edition of Gustav Holst’s arrangement of Neptune from 'The Planets' for organ duet, errors began to surface. Following initial corrections, a further six months passed before additional errors were discovered. In response, Jon Baxendale, founder of Lyrebird Music, decided to release a revised edition and invited me to undertake the editing process.

I worked from a fresh engraving that meticulously reproduced the original manuscript, providing a solid foundation for my editorial work. My remit was to modernise terminology, add dynamics, and incorporate details that would enhance the score for contemporary organists. Additionally, I was asked to rewrite the original preface and critical commentary—both of which had originally been authored by Jon Baxendale.

The former editor, mistakenly believing the work to be his own (though it is markedly different), has now filed a lawsuit against Jon and me, seeking a substantial financial settlement. This unfounded action has left Jon devastated.

Lyrebird Music, the company Jon has painstakingly built over the last six years and which has earned worldwide acclaim, operates on a shoestring budget—a true labour of love. His dedication to music education is remarkable; he has consistently shown generosity to students in need, providing free copies of his books and arranging lessons with renowned performers for those who could not otherwise afford such opportunities.

Driving such a valuable and innovative publisher into bankruptcy would be nothing short of musical vandalism.

Jon has acted with unwavering integrity throughout this ordeal, generously agreeing to cover my legal costs and take on all related financial responsibilities. However, as he must pay for legal representation both in his home country and in France, the financial burden has become overwhelming.

I feel compelled to do everything I can to help fight this unjust and punitive action. Any support you can offer, whether through a donation to this fundraiser or by sharing this appeal with your fellow musicians and friends, would be deeply appreciated.

Lyrebird Music is one of the most innovative and valuable publishing houses in the world. Supporting this cause will help protect its future and clear my name and Jon’s from these unwarranted accusations.

If there are any surplus funds after this lawsuit concludes, they will be used to establish a bursary for music students in need.

Thank you sincerely for your attention and any help you can offer.

Malcolm Archer