Quincy Porter (1897–1966) was an American composer and teacher. He taught at the Cleveland Institute of Music and Vassar before joining the faculty of the New England Conservatory of Music. He was dean of the faculty from 1938 to 1942 and became director of the New England Conservatory in 1942. He was appointed to the faculty at Yale, his alma mater, in 1946 and taught there until his retirement in 1965. His compositions included two symphonies, nine string quartets, several quintets, and concertos for harpsichord, viola, and two pianos. The latter won the Pulitzer Prize in 1954. His Concerto for Harpsichord was first performed by RK in New Haven in 1960. RK also edited the harpsichord part for Porter's Duo for Viola and Harp or Harpsichord.

July 13, 1960

Dear Quincy:

… You once showed me a keyboard transcription of some of the music for the Yale film. I remember particularly a nice fugue. Might this be something for a program of contemporary solo harpsichord music that I am planning to play in California in January? Do you have a copy?

I have booked a performance of your concerto with the Wichita Symphony on February 5 and 6, 1961. How is the new harpsichord part coming along? Could I possibly take it with me to Europe? After various uncertainties, I am now leaving for Paris on August 3, where I will be recording until the middle of September. The previous ten-day trip to Europe was lots of fun.

Give my best to Lois.

Affectionately, as ever,

Ralph