Person

COLLEY, Hannah and her sisters Laura and Thelma

The Colley Sisters, Hannah (trumpet), Laura (violin, vocals) and Thelma (drums), used to play over 6pm Relax community concerts as well as in concert parties.

1937

DUTY TOWARDS ABORIGINES. Mr. Neville Addresses Soldiers’ Wives. THE usual monthly social of the Friendly Union of Soldiers’ Wives was held at Anzac House yesterday afternoon, the president (Mrs. Harold Dean) being in the chair. A welcome was extended to the president of the British Ex-Service Women’s Organisation (Mrs. McDonald) and to several new members. The speaker for the afternoon was the Commissioner for Native Affairs (Mr. A. O. Neville) who spoke of the people’s duty towards the natives. Those concerned with the welfare and uplifting of natives were convinced of the importance of taking the long view of the position, Mr. Neville said. One of the first steps in this direction was the prevention of the near whites, the third and fourth generations, from living as natives in camps. Sister Kate’s Home at Queen’s Park was doing invaluable work in this direction. The next matter was the absorption of the native into the white population. Mr. Neville did not mean by this that the black and white races should inter-marry, but that by a gradual process, the native should be fitted to take his place in the community. To render absorption possible, the matter of health was all-important and great attention had been paid to this aspect of native affairs by the department during the last few years. Out of 7,000 cases examined in Western Australia over a period of two years, the total amount of disease among them, in spite of malnutrition and other draw-backs, was only 7 per cent. Education of Children. The education of native children was a necessary step towards absorption. At present, Mr. Neville said, there were 5,000 native children under the age of 14 in need of education and only 860 of these were receiving instruction, some from State schools and the rest at missions. Under present conditions, there was not sufficient money to pay for more extensive education, relief and rescue work forming a big item of expenditure. It was pleasing to find, Mr. Neville added, that there were more natives working either for their keep or for small wages in Western Australia than in any other State. Mr. Neville concluded by reading two important resolutions passed at the initial conference of the Commonwealth and State aborigine authorities at Canberra which he attended early this year. These dealt with absorption and education and were along the same lines on which Mr. Neville had spoken. A vote of thanks to Mr. Neville was moved by Lady Hobbs and seconded by Mrs. T. C. Wilson. The remainder of the afternoon was devoted to a musical programme arranged by the secretary (Mrs. E. Clear) and afternoon tea. A popular item was a piano duet given by two members aged 76, Mesdames O. J. Foote and C. O. Cliff. Little Hannah Colley, aged 11, rendered a cornet solo and recitations were given by Master James Purvey.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Friday 5 November 1937, page 7

EX-SERVICEMEN ENTERTAINED

On Tuesday afternoon the patients in the Edward Millen Home were.en-tertained to afternoon tea by various members of the Victoria Park R.S.L. Women’s Auxiliary. Afterwards com-munity singing and items were rendered by little Hannah Colley (cornet solos and recitations), and Patricia Farrell (songs and dances), which were greatly appreciated. At the conclusion of the programme the men were each given a small gift on behalf of the auxiliary by the little girl artists. The visitors were thanked by Mr. Foster on behalf of the matron and the patients and on behalf of the latter Mrs. Tolmie (president) was presented with a very nice basket as a token of appreciation of the work done on their behalf by the auxiliary. The programme was arranged by Mrs. Prue, and Mrs. Farrell obliged at the piano.

Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 – 1955), Sunday 26 December 1937, page 15

1938

44TH BATTALION AUXILIARY

VICTORIA PARK On December 21 the auxiliary paid their Christmas., visit to the boys at the Edward Millen Home, providing a short programme and afternoon tea. Items were given by Hannah Colley (cornet solos and recitations), and Patricia Farrell (songs and dances), interspersed with community singing. Mrs. Farrell obliged at the piano. At the conclusion of the programme, each patient was

handed a small gift by the little girl artists, on behalf of the auxiliary, and the visitors were thanked very heartily by Mr. Foster, on behalf of the matron and the inmates, and as a token of appreciation of the regular visits of the auxiliary to the Home, Mrs. Tolmie (president) was presented with a very nice basket.

Listening Post (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1954), Tuesday 18 January 1938, page 31

1940

WENT TO GAOL BUT DIDN’T STAY

An enjoyable concert was presented at Fremantle gaol last Sunday by Mrs. Page Lennon’s party. Those helping were: …Hannah Colley

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 13 July 1940, page 16

1941

WHAT WOMEN ARE DOING Mrs. Page Lemmon’s concert party visited the Fremantle prison on Sunday and entertained the inmates with a varied programme and community singing. Those assisting on this occasion included the Raolto Swing Sand. Misses Hannah Colley, Mary Shaw, Jenny Deering. Nellie Kershaw. Dorothy Hanley. Ada Coultas, Messrs. Jess Frankish, Jack Samseis, Ivan Warnes. Sydney Court, Bert Brielley and George Parsons. Mrs. Roy Deering was the accompanist, and Mr. Jess Frankish arranged the programme. Thanks are due to the following who conveyed the artists to and from the prison: Mrs. Streker, Messrs. Arthur Sullivan, Will Taylor, Charies Toil. Jack Fitzgerald and Jack Samnuels.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Wednesday 15 January 1941, page 12

The Colley Sisters Band: Hannah, Laura and Thelma

A.B.C. Orchestral Concert. Tonight at 8.15 the first of a series of five concerts arranged by the Australian Broadcasting Commission will take place at the Capitol Theatre. Many will be interested in the appearance of the young West Australian pianist, Stephen Dornan, who will be the soloist. Professor Bernard Heinze will conduct the Perth Symphony Orchestra. Patrons are asked by the Commission to be seated not later than 8.10 o’clock, as the doors will be closed during items. “Parade of Youth” Concert. A “Parade of Youth” community concert, proceeds of which were handed to the East Perth Police Boys’ Club, was presented in the Perth Town Hall on Thursday to an enthusiastic audience. A feature of the programme of vocal, instrumental and comedy numbers was the girls’ six-piece orchestra under the leadership of Miss Carmel Burrows and conducted by a 17-year-old youth. Every artist was under the age of 21 years and the performers included Beryl Bevan, Gwen Moore, Jack and Evelyn Chiswell, Harold Thurkle, Thelma Green, Ron Thomas, Hannah Colley, and Carmel Burrows. Orchestral items and 24 community numbers completed the lengthy programme. The concerts will be continued each Thursday to aid the appeal for funds to complete the supply of equipment for the club.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 3 May 1941, page 4

1942

SUNDAY CONCERT

“The workings of the Police Boys Clubs” is the subject of Constable W. Scott has chosen for his address to-morrow afternoon at the seventh Pleasant Sunday Afternoon in the North Perth Town Hall. Concert will commence at 3 p.m., includes items by Miss Nell Shortland-Jones, the Y.A.L. Band, Mr Bill Talbot, Master, Jackie Harrison, the Mace String Quartette, Mrs Marjorie Cook, Miss Hannah Colley. Accompanist will be Miss Stephanie Nash. Proceeds will go to the Northern Suburbs Police Boys’ Club.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Saturday 3 October 1942, page 12

Pleasant Sunday. Tomorrow (Sunday), commencing at 3 p.m., In the Maylands Town Hall, a Pleasant Sunday Afternoon, arranged by Cr. W. L. Menkens, will take place. It will be in aid of the Perth Road Board Red Cross Prisoners of War Fund (Maylands ward committee). The chair will be taken by Mr. H. V. Shearn, M.L.A., and the speaker Mr. R. Lloyd Thomas, whose subject will be ‘Planning World Peace.’ An excellent musical programme will be contributed to by Miss Nell Shortland – Jones, Miss Marjorie Payne, Miss Joy Hobley, Miss Hannah Colley, Mr. David Lyle, Mr. Will Savage, Master Jackie Harrison, with Miss Stephanie Nash as accompanist. Mirror, Saturday November 7 1942 page 19

1943

Pleasant Sundays

Third of the series of Pleasant Sunday Afternoons arranged by Cr. W. L. Menkens in the North Perth Town Hall will take place on Sunday week, June 6. Chair will be taken by Mr. H. Shearn, MLA, and the speaker will be Professor Walter Murdoch, who will speak on ‘The Tragedy of the Jew.’ The following artists will contribute to the musical programme: Mrs. W. L. Pitman, Mrs. W. L. Menkens, Mr. David Lyle, Miss Hannah Colley, and a military band under the baton of Cpl. G. E. Meagher.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 29 May 1943, page 17

SUNDAY CONCERT

‘The Tragedy of the Jew’ is the subject chosen by Professor Walter Murdoch for his address at the Pleasant Sunday Afternoon in the North Perth Town Hall on Sunday. Programme will commence at 3 p.m. and proceeds will go to the Jewish Women’s Red Cross Company Prisoners of War Appeal. Musical programme will include items by Mr David Lyle, Miss Stephanie Nash, Mrs W. L. Menkens, Mrs W. L. Pitman, Miss Hannah Colley and Miss Florence Prain, with music by a military band. Visitors from the city are advised to catch a No. 22 tram and alight at Albert Street, North Perth.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Friday 4 June 1943, page 4

PATRIOTIC EFFORTS. Pleasant Sunday Afternoon. Arranged by Cr W. L. Menkens to assist the Jewish Women’s Red Cross Company prisoners of war appeal, the third of a series of Pleasant Sunday Afternoons was held in the North Perth Town Hall yesterday. Mr H. V. Shearn, MLA was in the chair and an address was given by Professor Walter Murdoch. Cr Menkens presented a cheque for £50 collected at the previous gathering to Superintendent Hope of the North Perth division of the St John Ambulance Brigade. The programme was contributed by Mesdames M. L. Pitman and W. L. Menkens, Misses Hannah Colley and F. Prain, Messrs D. Lyle and R. Donaldson, and an Army band conducted by Cpl G. E. Meagher.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Monday 7 June 1943, page 6

1944

RAAF Comforts Fund.

Here amongst the local artists I found first-class talent. Hannah Colley, 5ft of blonde daintiness, performed magnificently on the trumpet-Hannah, I believe, was to tour the World, but the war intervened, and Hannah is still with us. Something to be grateful for.

Western Mail (Perth, WA : 1885 – 1954), Thursday 27 April 1944, page 31

A.C.W. Hannah Colley, who has just returned from Ascot Vale, where she was the only woman m the R.A.A.F. Band and also played at Officers’ Administration Pass-out ceremony at the Melbourne University, has been chosen as the candidate for R S.L Women’s Auxiliary Popular Lady Competition for P.O.W. Fund. Donations would be gratefully received by Mrs. Luber Smith.

Westralian Judean (Perth, WA), Friday 1 September 1944, page 27

REMEMBRANCE DAY. ARMISTICE ANNIVERSARY. – Traditional Silence Observed. The 26th anniversary of the armistice which brought hostilities to an end in the 1914-18 war was observed in Perth at 11 o’clock on Saturday; morning, when traffic in the city was brought to a standstill and the people stood in silence for two minutes in remembrance of the fallen. After the lapse of 26 years and with another war having intervened the armistice itself now has little significance in the annual commemoration, which is almost wholly a day of remembrance for the fallen and as such has come to be known as: “Remembrance Day.” The commencement of the silence at 11 am was heralded by the firing of the Observatory gun. All tram, street and pedestrian traffic immediately came to a halt and a strange quietness fell like a mantle over the city. Amidst the hush came thei sounding of the last post by buglers stationed at many intersections and vantage points. The firing of the gun ended the silence and, with the sounding of the short rouse of the reveille by the buglers, traffic and transport was resumed and the populace was again on its way. Particular interest was shown in the ceremony at the Hay and Wilham streets intersection, where the bugle calls were sounded by a woman bugler, ACW Hannah Colley, of the RAAF. Sometime before 11 am a large crowd formed a circle in the roadway around the diminutive bugler and all traffic was held up until after the ceremony had ended.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Monday 13 November 1944, page 6

Mrs. Colley, of Mt. Lawley, has written in regard to the paragraph we published in the November “Listening Post” about the services of her daughter, Miss Hannah Colley, on Armistice Day. Following the newspaper account, we stated that Miss Colley received her musical training from her father, Mr. A. W. Colley, In doing so, we inadvertently did an injustice to an old friend. Mrs. Colley points out that Hannah’s father commenced teaching her at any early age, but she was with him only for six or eight months. All other credit for her outstanding success as a trumpeter goes to another old and [popular member of the League, Mr. George Mellor, who was bandmaster of the 51st Bn. in the last war, and subsequently of the R.S.L. Memorial Band. For many years, George has been trumpeter in the Perth A.B.C. Wireless Orchestra. We thank Mrs. Colley for supplying added information.

Listening Post (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1954), Friday 1 December 1944, page 6

PATRIOTIC EFFORTS.

Concert for P.O.W. Funds. A concert will be held tonight at the Assembly Hall. Pier-stret. at which the. solo artists will include ACW Hannah L. Colley (trumpeter). “Levato” (child trick. cyclist) and Jack Anstey’s Singing Group.: The concert will be produced and compered by Nell Shortland-Jones and the proceeds will aid the POW fund.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Tuesday 5 December 1944, page 6

“POPULAR GIRL” Munitions Candidate’s Success. Excitement ran high in the R.S.L. Hall, Salford-street, Victoria Park, when the popular girl contest run by the women’s auxiliary of the Victoria Park RSL in aid of the POW Appeal was concluded. Miss Betty Parley (Munitions candidate) topped the poll, followed closely by the Victoria Park RSL Women’s Auxiliary candidate (Miss Hannah Colley) and Miss Sylvia Hodgson who was sponsored by the sub-branch. Al three girls polled well and raised a considerable sum by their united efforts. During the evening prizes were presented by Dr Palandri who was recently repatriated. He also gave a talk on conditions in a POW camp. On Sunday afternoon the auxiliary entertained the patients of the Edward Millen Home at afternoon tea, followed by a musical programme. Each patient received a Christmas gift and the auxiliary was thanked by the oldest member of the home.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Friday 22 December 1944, page 3

1945

Women’s Auxiliaries – STATE EXECUTIVE

The last executive meeting of 1944 was held on December 15, all members being pre sent. Mrs. McKinlay (State President) presided. The agenda this meeting was a full one, which dealt mostly with Christmas cheer for present and exservice men and women. On December 20 at Anzac House a luncheon and afternoon tea was given to 100 convalescent service men and women from Hollywood, Lady Mitchell and John Nicholson Homes. An excellent luncheon was prepared by members of the executive. Official visitors were Mr. Anderson (State President R.S.L.), Mr. Benson (State Secretary), Mr. Leslie, M.L.A., and Mr. Yeates, O.B.B. A programme of music was arranged by Miss Nell Shortland Jones, assisting artists being Miss Merrimee Holt (piano), and A. C. W. Colley (trumpet). This function was made available by a very generous donation from Southern Cross Auxiliary.

Listening Post (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1954), Monday 1 January 1945, page 21

Women’s Auxiliaries …a farewell gift was also given to Miss Hannah Colley on the eve of her departure to the Eastern States. Hannah has always helped us at our socials, and we shall miss her.

Listening Post (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1954), Monday 1 October 1945, page 22

1947

SUB BRANCH

The dance held on 11th October at Leederville Town Hall was a good dance in every respect except one, the exception being that we should have been glad to see about two hundred more dancers. We were unfortunate to clash with the only show night held since anybody cares to remember but it is doubtful if that was entirely responsible. Anyway, it serves as an excuse if not much of a solace. From all other angles the night was a success and we think everybody enjoyed the evening thoroughly including the meditative sportsman who spent two -thirds of the evening trying to get in at reduced rates. At each refusal this potential cash customer relapsed into deep thought, coming up at the end of each second dance with another offer of a slightly lower figure. He finally got in for nothing when: the doorman took the floor with an exhibition of the can-can, and performed quite creditably for the last two dances. Our thanks are due to the committee, comprising members of the Women’s Auxiliary and of our own sub-branch who worked so hard to make the evening a success. We would like also to express our thanks to Mrs. McMahon who played the piano in the very excellent orchestra and, as on many previous occasions for the auxiliary and sub -branch, gave her services as a donation. Another member of the orchestra who donated her services for the evening was Miss Hannah Colley who played the silver trumpet, a solid looking instrument and quite an unusual one for a girl to wrestle with. Our impression, generally speaking, is that girl trumpet players are as scarce as female bagpipe blowers; but perhaps that is only our lack of a musical education. Anyway, the little lady performs on the trumpet not only with delightful technique but with a surprising robustness and confidence. Those who attended., at the evening given to Lemnos patients will remember the beautiful solo numbers given on that occasion by Miss Colley and thousands of service personnel were entertained by her during the dark and dismal days of war.

Subiaco Weekly Gazette (WA : 1947 -1960), Thursday 16 October 1947, page 4

1948

After sounding the Last Post and Reveille at three Anzac Day services, 23-year-old exservicewoman Hannah Colley, of Mt. Lawley, ended her busy day yesterday by playing at a Greek wedding. She started yesterday at 10.15 a.m., finished about 1 a.m. today. Tiny (4ft. 10£in.) fairhaired Miss Colley has blown the Last Post and Reveille at Anzac Day services since 1944. In 1945 she sounded the calls at six services, her day beginning that year with the Dawn Service. After a year in the WAAF Miss Colley joined the, army entertaining unit and played at camp concerts She has been playing the trumpet and bugle since she was 11. Yesterday she sounded the calls at the Mt. Lawley War Memorial. St. Giles Church and the Synagogue.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Monday 26 April 1948, page 4

1950

SEARCH FOR TALENT

The last heat of the Blighty Association’s £10 Grand Talent Competition will be held at the association’s variety concert at Perth Town Hall tomorrow afternoon. The Sunday concerts and conducted to raise money for the Daily News Orphans’ Christmas Cheer Fund. Artists at tomorrow’s concert will include Elayne Sibbritt Hannah Colley, Peggy Garden, Tom Flavin, Hugh Albrecht, George Myers and pianist Billy Edwards. Final auditions for the talent contest will be held at 3 Howard-st, Perth, at 8p.m. today.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Saturday 18 November 1950, page 17

1952

SISTERS HERALD DAWN

BUGLER Hannah Colley (26) and her 17-year-old drummer sister Thelma heralded the dawn for the hundreds gathered at the Jewish War Memorial for the Jewish’ Anzac Day dawn service. For three years the sisters have been team-mates at the service— they consider it an honour, not a duty. Hannah, ex-WAAF, has been playing the bugle since 1944, when she was a member of the WAAF band in Victoria. Thelma began her career as, a drummer at the age of six. She has had considerable experience with dance music.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Friday 25 April 1952, page 2

Anzac Day

The Dawn Service was held at the Jewish War Memorial immediately following that at the State War Memorial and was attended by a record crowd. Delegates from the R.S.L., Legion of Ex-Servicemen and Women and Air Force Association were invited and honoured us by their presence. Rabbi L. Rubin-Zacks officiated at the service and wreaths were laid by 19 Jewish organisations, Miss B. Lewis and the Air Force Association. The calls were sounded by Mrs. Hannah Hoffman and Miss Thelma Colley. The Association was well represented in the afternoon at the Synagogue where a most impressive service was conducted. It is to be hoped that in future year-, the Jewish Community will be as well represented.

Westralian Judean (Perth, WA), Thursday 1 May 1952, page 5

Instruments

Years

1940

Person

REGAN, Johnny

1949

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Saturday, December 10, Broomehill Hall Ball, Johnny Regan‘s six-piece orchestra from Perth.

Great Southern Herald (Katanning, WA : 1901 – 1966), Friday 18 November 1949, page 2

Dancing fans are promised a treat on December 10 when Johnny Regan‘s Swing Six Band will play in the Broomehill Hall. Modern and old time will be played. Supper and novelties.

Great Southern Herald (Katanning, WA : 1901 – 1966), Friday 2 December 1949, page 2

1954

MANY MUSICIANS AND ARTISTS donated their time at the Teen and Twenty Club’s open dance which was held to raise money for the Wendy Nash appeal. A cheque for £65 has been given to the young’ pianist. Artists included the Rhythm Spinners, Lisa Ray and Bill Higgins. Paul and Eileen, W.A. jive champions. Johnny and Evelyn, nightclub entertainers from Melbourne, and Wendy Stiles. Among the musicians were Jack Harrison, Horrie King, Sammy Sharp, Jimmy Beeson, Keith Whittle, Johnny Regan, Alex MacMillan, Ralph Filmer, Dick Hatton and Les West’s orchestra.

Western Mail (Perth, WA : 1885 – 1954), Thursday 22 July 1954, page 22

1954 TOP BANDS

Oct. 31 and Nov. 7 will be big nights for local Jan lovers. Ten top bands will take the stage for the Jazz Jamboree while the following Sunday’s show is marked by the appearance of Australia’s greatest drum technician — George Watson. An ex-West Australian, Watson has built up a colossal following in Melbourne’s Dance world. Recently he played with drummers’ doyen Gene Krupa. Bands for the Jamboree are Keith Whittle’s Dixielanders, the Jazzstars, Johnny Regan‘s Moderniques, Ray Le Cornu, Merv Rowston, Harry Bluck, Jimmy Beeson, Norm Wrightson, Ron Jenkins and Sammy Sharp. Both shows will be at the Capitol.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 23 October 1954, page 11

BIG JAZZ show on SUNDAY

Capacity crowd is expected at tomorrow night’s annual Jazz Jamboree at the Capitol Theatre. Ten well-known local swing hands will take part. Show is the first of 2 being conducted this year in aid of the Musicians Benevolent Fund. Another will follow on Sunday week. Jamboree fans will have their first opportunity of hearing and seeing Keith Whittle and his Dixielanders, who will lead off tomorrow night’s program. Other bands are Johnny Regan‘s Moderniques, Ray Le Cornu, Merv Rowston’s Collegiate Jazz Band, Harry Bluck, Jimmy Beeson, Norm Wrightson, Ron Jenkins and Sammy Big attraction at the second show is visiting drum wizard George Watson. Novel half of the program will be the appearance on stage of 3 bands simultaneously. They will play sections of numbers alternately. Compere for both shows is Peter Harrison.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 30 October 1954, page 6

1955

Jazz Jamboree

No. 9 – “Hot and Cool” – KEITH WHITTLE’S DIXIELANDERS WITH JOHNNY REGAN’S MODERNIQUES.

1963

A river cruise commencing at 8.30 p.m. from Barrack Street Jetty on Saturday is being organised by the Northam Junior Farmers. The cruise will end at 1 p.m. but between times dancing will take place on the top deck of the “Zephyr” to music by Johnnie Regan‘s band and supper will be served. Last year’s cruise was a wonderful success over 400 people being aboard.

Beverley Times (WA : 1905 – 1977), Thursday 10 January 1963, page 2

1964

RIVER CRUISE

About fifteen Northam Junior Farmers and friends went on a river cruise on Saturday night. The boat left the Barrack street Jetty at 8.30 pm. Deck dancing was enjoyed by all, and music was supplied by Johnny Regan‘s band. Following this, supper was served.

Beverley Times (WA : 1905 – 1977), Thursday 16 January 1964, page 9

Johnny went prospecting for gold and popped in to visit Ray Harrison’s daughter Julie at her pub in Kalgoorlie.

Johnny Regan, drummer speaks of his involvement with the jazz music industry.

His interest in jazz began at age 13 (1939) when a friend bought a Tommy Dawson album.

In 1940 whilst visiting friends in Fremantle, Regan saw Jimmy Riley in his band, Merv Rowston was playing the drums. Reagan then was inspired to take up drums and had lessons from Merv.

At age 18 Regan was conscripted and entered the RAAF, he received his discharge after playing in a service band.

In Perth Regan speaks of his involvement with the jazz music industry.

[REGAN, JOHN : INTERVIEWED BY BRUCE JOHNSON : ORAL HISTORY] – TITLE VERSION

https://pro.nfsa.gov.au/titles/7VG82T3T?view_mode=grid

Instruments

Drums

Years

1949

Person

WHITTLE, Keith

REHEARSAL FOR SAMMY SHARP’S JAZZ FANTASIA

Saturday September 16 1950

(photo) from left to right: Jack Harrison, Jim Beeson, Betty Wittaker, Sammy Sharp and Keith Whittle.

The Broadcaster Saturday September 16 1950

Keith Whittle, drummer with Jimmy Beeson’s combination, first began playing percussion instruments in a small way when he was 3. Whittle became a band leader in his own right at the age of 10. He organised an outfit at the Mt. Hawthorn School — two paper and comb experts, a mouth organ, tin whistle and a set of drums consisting of kerosene tins and bottles filled with water. It proved a great success with the other pupils but was rather frowned upon by the more conservative teachers. Not disheartened, Keith graduated from the tin can era and a few years later joined Chris Gosper’s Australian All Stars. When this combination went overseas he became a free-lance drummer with a number of Perth bands. Now employed by one of Perth’s leading music stores, Keith Whittle is a recognised authority on jazz records. His favourite drummer — Gene Krupa.

Mirror Sat 1 November 1952 page 6

Ladies’ Night | Was One To Be Remembered

Secretary Mrs. Le Cornu (Sylvia Caporn) and an energetic committee really pulled one out of the bag for Musicians’ Union Ladies’ Auxiliary’s first night at Anzac House lower hall on Tuesday. Musical items were contributed by Phyllis Frost and Bryn Gyfford, drummers Merv Rowston, Keith Whittle, Murray McKay and Max McKay, sax players George Caro, Sonny Henderson, Johnny McCaughan, trumpeter Jack Pope, pianists Nell Sheridan, Roy de la Mere and Henry Cochran, guitarist Hank Collins and Dane Gorn on bass. It was a jam session extraordinary, and it was enjoyed by all.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 15 August 1953, page 13

Rare Disc – GENE KRUPA’S long awaited disc of ‘Dark Eyes,’ which has not been available in Australia for 8 months, is now selling well, according to Keith Whittle, of Nicholons. Flip side is ‘After You’ve Gone,’ featuring Roy Eldridge, coloured trumpeter, late of Duke Ellington’s Band. Connoisseurs of jazz will remember Roy’s ‘Trumpet in Spades’ which caused a sensation before the war and is still a prized disc. ‘O Happy Day,’ by Lawrence Welk and Ork, is best seller in the pop field. Vocals by gravel voiced Larry Hooper, whose sore throat will be better soon, we hope.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 20 June 1953, page 12

Instruments

Drums

Years

1950
1993

Person

WATSON, George

19 February 1949

BOB GIBSON – GEORGE WATSON – JIM RILEY

PERTH JAZZ MEN ARE TOPS IN EAST

Recent news about WA dance musicians who have sought to establish national reputations is good news. At least 4 who have been questing after the big-time in the Eastern States have made it, some of them ranking amongst the top-salaried musicians of the day. Currently occupying press space in musical magazines and feeling the for and, against quips of critics in Sydney is Ray Hartley, onetime popular pianist at radio lunch-hour concerts in Perth. General gossip has it that Ray is sow in the high salary range although it is rumoured that the road has been long and very rough. At present Ray is featured with Paul Lombard’s outfit at the Celebrity Club which used to be Rose’s and spare time, as little as he may have, L being turned towards arranging and holding down a couple of radio spots. In addition to this Ray contributes to the Music Maker, the Australian Dance Band Editorial and his articles on prominent keyboard men are a worth while contribution to that magazine. Although his name is usually associated with lunch hour concerts, Ray’s success was first assured in renditions of the Ray Hartley Trio; a combination which he has reformed in Sydney.

Among the State’s leading percussion men who have made the grade in the East is George Watson.

George comes from a Mt. Lawley family and is the son of a true Scottish piper. As a small boy, he played side drum with a Scottish pipe band, so that it appears as though George was always meant to be a skin-beater. George Watson was just another great jazz man to pass through the famous Ron Moyle outfit in the thirties, when he relieved Niddy Roberts who went to Ceylon. Towards the end of the thirties, he packed his kit and went to Melbourne but found that the opposition was too strong and that opportunities for strangers were few and far between and so he returned to the West. However, this was not sufficient to deter him, and determined that he would make the grade, he again packed and left for Melbourne and within a very short time had captured the admiration of Melbourne public. His style of drumming was looked upon as something out of the bag, and his ballroom dancing was just eccentric. During the war, George Watson was known by all servicemen, and his Dug Out band was one of the best smaller orks in Melbourne. George is still well in the game and enjoying success in his drumming school in Melbourne.

[1]

Jazz Concert – George Watson Show

Sunday 7 November 1954

Popular

The Capitol theatre was packed last night when six local bands and a combined band led by George Watson, a former West Australian, gave a jazz concert. Mr. Watson is regarded in Melbourne as one of Australia’s foremost drummers and bandleaders.

The young audience heard jazz classics played by Neil Boon’s Quartet; Cliff Adam’s Show Band; Harry Phillips’ Quartet; Ossie Sanderson’s Trio; Jack Harrison’s Quartet; and the Dixieland Group. [2]

Ray Harrison remembers having an over the phone drumming lesson with George Watson!

[1] Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 19 February 1949, page 11

[2] The West Australian Monday 8 November 1954 page 15

Instruments

Years

1954

Person

ROWSTON, Merv

Australian musician (drummer) Merv Rowston from Perth, Western Australia started his music career in 1928 playing with local bands.

Biography: Merv Rowston was self taught and gained most of his tuition by listening to records. In his ‘teens, Merv played at his first paid engagement — 2 piece unit of electric pianola and drums. Merv free-lanced with small outfits around the city, including Bill Naughton’s KitKat Cabaret band, and in 1929 got his first big break when he joined Charlie Sheridan’s Piccadilly Cabaret Band. During the following 5 years he was in the public limelight and among leading combinations he played with were Merv Lyons, at the original Temple Court Cabaret ( Embassy ; Knickerbocker Jazz Group, at the Luxor and Fred Nice, whose band, incidentally, featured in the first radio broadcast in 1932 In July, 1934 he went abroad and was associated with some of the leading percussionists and bands in England. After his return he formed his own band in 1937, which featured at the Miami Club. This line-up was Jim Riley piano; Ken Murdoch, sax: Merv. Rowston, drums: Pa Wagner, vocals. Tie-up of Jim, Ken and Merv is still recognised as one of the greatest combinations that Perth’s Dance Band Land has ever known. Merv’s successes since then reel off smoothly. – By AGAS

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 12 March 1949, page 14

1943

ACE DANCE DRUMMER CAUGHT IN 4 a.m. RAID

Merv Rowston’s Girl Friend Was Wearing His Pyjamas; Ace dance band drummer Merv Rowston, who was divorced this week.

Remember ‘Merv’ Rowston in pre-war days at Rottnest? Remember how he used to slip on that infant’s suit, and while he kept his drums throbbing, he’d make himself a small boy in stature, then as suddenly seem to grow to giant’s height? Of course you do! But ‘Merv’ never cut a smaller figure than he did when wife Jean Mains Rowston caught him with his girl-friend (she was wearing a pair of ‘Merv’s’ pyjamas), in a guest-house in Hay-st. one night. Though the Rowston marriage beat first went awry in April, 1942, and a separation order was drawn up, wifie Jean began to hear still more rumours. You know the sort of things that pals like to pass on to the wife of a popular dance-band artist? Hubby was then working at the Coconut Grove, making the drums speak a mouthful. And late one night his wife saw him leave the dance with two girl friends. She and a cousin trailed them to a hamburger joint, then back to the one-room flatlet ‘Merv’ calls home in Hay-st. Wifie and her cousin saw ‘Merv’ and his pals enter the house, kept watch from 1.30 a.m. until a little after 4 o’clock. All this time, the wife told the Chief Justice, via Mr. Dave Walsh in the Divorce Court this week, the two girls and her hubby were having a high old time, ‘spotting’ and laughing. Suddenly she heard a girl’s voice ask: ‘Whose pyjamas have I got on?’ Back came the voice of ‘Merv’: ‘They’re mine mind you take care of ’em, too — they’re worth 8 coupons!’ Next wifie heard another girl’s voice say loudly: ‘I feel like Greta Garbo — I -want to be a-lone!'” Nothing loath, ‘Merv’ and, his sweetie saw the other lass into her bedroom, next door. Then shortly afterwards the light in the drummer’s room went out, but the dulcet tones of his inamorata could still be heard. So wifie got in touch with Alf Sleep, and very soon they were marching down the corridor to the tympanist’s’r oom. But just as they reached it, the door opened and there stood ‘Merv’ and the girl-friend, both in pyjamas, ‘Merv’s’ hand lovingly caressing her shoulders. When they saw the unofficial deputation, ‘Merv’ found his tongue first. ‘Quick — beat it down those stairs’.’ he told hie sweetie, and she fled— in ‘Merv’s’ pyjamas. Beeline For Bedroom While all this was going on, ‘Merv’ had moved into the adjoining room, where there was a girl asleep. ‘She’s sick,’ remarked the drummer unnecessarily. ‘I’ve come to try and fix her up.’ But shaking failed to rouse the sleep, so they all trooped out again. ‘Merv,’ ever quickminded, made a bee-line for his bedroom, shot inside and locked the door. Then from a table drawn up against the door, he harangued his visitors, by way of the fanlight, using his torch as a ‘spot,’ alternately on his wife Jean and Sleep. ‘You’ve got nothing on me!’ was the burden of his song. And he refused to open the door or tell them the girl friend’s name. A similar refusal to tell came later from WAAAF I Avis Richards, who had been in ‘Merv’s’ room while the drinks were on tap, according to evidence. Chief Justice granted the wife a decree, while ‘Merv’ will have to foot the costs.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 12 June 1943, page 1

George Reid conducted the original Perth Symphony Orchestra and his son Harold gave lessons to Sammy Sharp, Ken Murdoch and Merv Rowston. [1].

[1] Andrew Bisset, Black Roots, White Flowers, p.57

1946

SUNDAY JULY 28 1946

MAKE THIS A DATE — GALA COMMUNITY AND VARIETY CONCERT, Princess Theatre Fremantle (Kindly loaned by Grand Theatres) Proceeds in aid Fremantle City R.S.L..

LOOK AT THIS LINE-UP OF TOP-LINE ARTISTS: Joan Bridger — Sweet Singer of Popular Songs. Jackie Harrison — Our Own youthful Larry Adler. Frank Fenn — the Very Different Funny Man. Len Ford -Fremantle’s Popular Baritone. Ken Gosper — and his Melodious Piano Accordeon. Angus McLean — Master Exponent of the Trumpet. Betty Elder – Vocalist. And ‘THE HOT SHOTS’— Non-Stop Crazy Musical Act Including: Merv Rowston at the Drums and Horno-Washboard. Jack Samuels — The Singing Cowboy. Lionel and A. — The Barnyard Musical Duo. Skinny Guy – Corn Doctor. THIS IS A RIOT ! ! Quick-Fire Quiz. Boodle for Brains. Cash Prizes. Introducing ‘Asparagus,”, The Quiz Kid.

1951

JAZZ JAMBOREE – 28 OCTOBER 1951

Band members:Roy Delamare (piano), John Stirling (Tenor sax), Wally Smith (bass), Mick Bartlett (1st Alto sax), Norm McMahon (1st Trumpet), Mick Bourne (2nd trumpet), Merv Rowston (drums).

“Lover”, “Kinda on the Lonesome Side” (Mick Bartlett – sax), “By the Waters of Minnetonka” (Special Feature Arrangement – arranged for Merv Rowston by Wally Hadley).

From the Printed Program: Harrison Family Archive

1952

6. MERV ROWSTON’S BAND

Among the top line drummers in Perth is Merv Rowston. His career goes back to 1927 when he got his first paid engagement for a performance on the electric pianola and drums. A man who gained his experience during the jazz era, he has had as much experience as probably any other local musician. Keen to improve his drumming technique he went to England In 1934. He learned all he could from leading British drummers and returned to Perth with many new ideas on dance music. Merv has had considerable broadcasting experience and over the years has played at every dance spot in and around Perth. When old time dancing was popular over the air he conducted the ABC old time dance band. Away from music he is a refrigeration engineer.

Mirror Sat 1 November 1952 page 6

1953

A DRUMMER’S SCRAPBOOK TAKES YOU DOWN MEMORY LANE – OLD TUNES THAT STILL LIVE

A glance through popular Perth drummer Merv Rowston‘s scrap book is a musical journey down the years which cannot fail to bring back many a pleasant memory tucked away in the nether crevices of the mind.

Music was Merv’s first love even as a boy, and his book opens up with the musical program for a Parliament House ball in honor of ‘Field Marshal the Right Honorable Viscount Kitchener of Khartoum’ in 1910. Tops In two-steps that night was Teddy Bear’s Picnic. But Merv’s own story really commences in 1910, when he got his first drum kit, an elaborate looking affair lavishly decorated by a painting of a glamor girl in front. ‘The year of corn,’ writes Merv of 1927 on & page reserved for the autographs of musical celebrities right through to 1944 ‘Hot Diggety.’ Few Perth artists of note fail to appear on this page. Merv, top-hatted and really going to town with the drumsticks, is pictured in 1928 when he did a short season at the old Kit-Kat Cabaret. His business card is interesting for the fact that his phone number at West Perth was ‘A5452.’

In 1929 Merv was really in business as WA celebrated its 100th birthday. His first break into the big time came with an engagement in Charles Sheridan’s Piccadilly Cabaret band. With them he did a centenary country tour of 65 towns. At one of the many metropolitan balls of that year the opening waltz was the Vagabond King, the fox-trot Rubinesque. Who will ever forget the blues, Glad Rag Doll? On the list as a request item from the, ‘old days’ of 1929 was the waltz Blue Danube, seemingly immortal. They shook a carefree leg in the old Varsity Drag. Many times have they revived the melodious waltz Honey. Remember how it lilted ‘Im hi love with you, honey, say you love me too, honey. No one else will do, honey, seems funny but it’s true’? What a wonderful old number that one was! Recall the old blues number, ‘Ten little miles from the railroad station, ten little miles from town’? No. 16 on the list was one that made mother drop an odd tear was the fox -trot ‘Sunny Boy’. And a program of melody to delight the heart closed with the Desert Song Waltz. Another program of the year featured the catchy Rio Rita, and who will forget the tuneful Carolina Moon? Later that year, Merv made the Capitol Theatre under the baton of Harry Cross. Then there was the Temple Court Cabaret (now Embassy).

1932 it was Fred Nice’s band and Merv’s first radio broadcast from the old 6ML. 1933— underneath the Arches, Can’t We Talk It Over, We Just Couldn’t Say Goodbye, Tiger Rag, Kiss Me Again, Shuffle Off to Buffalo, the naughty number of the year, Farewell to Arms, Play Fiddle, Play, Forty second Street, Just an Echo in the Valley.

1934 Merv was off to England to ‘learn’ from Max Abrams. 1938 he was back with Fred Nice. Next year- saw the opening of the Miami Night Club in National House and Merv formed his first band. 1938 it was the ‘New’ Embassy Cabaret, then the Three Crochets with Jim Riley and Austin Ray. 1939 the P and A Parade through 6IX. 1940 saw Dixieland swing with Merv looking for students and finding plenty. 1941 the ABC’s old time dances with Merv conducting the band. 1943 the club Cabarita Coconut Cabaret, 1944 the US Navy Band and Merv Rowston. ‘Drummer Boy’ Merv, the popular maestro, can refresh some wonderful memories flicking through that scrap book.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 5 September 1953, page 13

1955

Jazz Jamboree

No. 4 MERV ROWSTON’S BAND

The Will Upson Big Band– A Tribute To The Embassy Ballroom

https://www.discogs.com/release/9101640-The-Will-Upson-Big-Band-A-Tribute-To-The-Embassy-Ballroom-?srsltid=AU7gw4WTVF8qfNBCTMzODWfjoiHVgSL1r2s9xcl6q3c6_NJiG9pbAnza

Instruments

Drums

Years

1927
1952

Person

HARRISON, Ramon Kerr "Ray"

HARRISON, Ramon Kerr was the older brother of Jack Harrison.

On 16^th July 1929, William Edward Harrison and Edna May Kerr had their second son, Ramon Kerr Harrison.

HARRISON. — On July 16, at Kiama Private Hospital, Nicholson-road, Subiaco,

to Mr. and Mrs. W. Harrison, of Hollywood — a son.

At this time, the family home was at 64 Bruce Street, Nedlands, Western Australia.

In 1935 the family moved to 24 Highway Nedlands.

Ramon (or “Ray” or “Mon”) attended Nedlands State School and started learning the drums with teachers Alf Schofield and Fraser Middleton-White. Ray Harrison also remembered having an over the phone drumming lesson with George Watson, arranged by his father.

Ray toured with his father and brother Jack to country centres, performing on bass harmonica to form a trio.

On completion of primary school and attended Junior Technical School in Newcastle Street in West Perth and was a drummer in the Y.A.L band.

In 1943 aged 14, Ray’s first job was at a broom factory in Welshpool making broomheads from blackboy reeds. Ray only worked there for a week!

His first permanent job was at Joseph Lucus Batteries and electrical, Wellington Street, Perth working in the shock absorbers department plus building and repairing batteries. He stayed there for about 7 or 8 years until the late 1950s.

Ray, William Jnr on sax and William Harrison

1945 Sunday nights became “jam session” night at the Harrison’s Nedlands home, with all four children (Bill Jnr on saxophone) joining in. Jack’s best mate and neighbour, John McMeikan, described Ray Harrison as not only a “brilliant drummer” but also the clown of the family “a born comedian” and remembers his nickname as a result being “Nit”.

1945 Ray at drums with William Harrison (Snr) Dance Band sign

In October, Ray Harrison’s Swing Band entered in the 1945 Sportsmen’s Amateur Quest which was a prominent talent competition aimed at showcasing local performers. The first final of this competition, described as the “W.A. Sportsmen’s £150 Amateur Quest,” was held at the Perth Town Hall on Sunday, October 28, 1945. The event was a high-profile entertainment competition during the immediate post-war period in Perth.

FINAL £150 W.A. SPORTSMEN’S AMATEUR QUEST – Sunday, 8.45 p.m. PERTH TOWN HALL

VOCAL SECTION: Mr Lloyd Taylor, Miss Pauline Jordan, Mr Ernie Mulcahy, Miss Julia Pusey, Miss Betty Elder, Mr Geo. Townsend

NOVELTY SECTION: Mr Ernest Ritter, Miss Fay Robinson, Mr John Sutton, Miss Pauline Thick, Ray Harrison’s Swing Band, Mr Frank Jenkins.

The voting results determining the artists to progress to the final were:

Result 2nd Final £150 W.A. Sportsmen’s Amateur Quest

Artists Selected to Appear Grand Final

No. 10. HARRISON’S SWING BAND 191

No. 9. Mr. JENKINS 182

No. 6. Mr. ERNIE MULCAHY 180

No. 11. Miss JULIA PUSEY 139

No. 2. Miss BETTY ELDER 137

No. 5. Mr JOHN SUTTON 133.

The Daily News Thursday 8 November 1945 page 12

Ray Harrison’s drumming talent received state wide recognition when in November 1946 the “Ray Harrison Swing Band”, consisting of Ray on drums and Jack on clarinet and saxophone and Jill Harrison on piano came third in the 6PM-AM “Search for Talent” Competition held at Fremantle Town Hall.

Last Friday night at the Fremantle Town Hall the winners of the 6PM-AM £50 Search for Talent contest were announced. Phil Moran, tenor, won the competition while the Machlin sisters, a singing cowgirl trio, were second and Ray Harrison’s Swing Band was third. Ray, with his sister and brother Jill and Jack, were third in the contest with their combination as an orchestra. Ray plays the drums, Jill is the pianist and Jack plays the saxophone and clarinet. Jack won an Australian Amateur Hour in 1940 when he appeared at the age of nine as a mouth organist.

The Broadcaster Saturday November 9 1946

1948 “Jack Harrison Trio” in front of 24 Highway Nedlands

In 1947, Jack Harrison formed his own dance band with his twin sister Jill and brother Ray and they performed jazz with “dash old-time” at “The Blue Room” and regularly at North Perth and Leederville Town Halls.

1947 Jack Harrison Trio – red lapels black jackets

Pen Points on Perth By Harry Black – IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY – Music is an integral part of the Harrison family, as veteran pianist Bill Harrison is Jack’s proud poppa, a sister plays piano in Jack’s outfit while a brother wields the drumsticks. Jack is being ably coached in his sax work by Ken Murdoch, while he is also studying “legit” clarinet with A.B.C. woodwindist Alan Rule. Apart from these few activities, plus his harmonica appearances, plus his home rehearsals, plus his rehearsals with the A.B.C. Amateur symphony Group, plus his private practice – Jack still finds time to be a modest 15 year old Aussie. All his many friends in local musical circles predict quite a musical future for young Jack – so we wish him the best of luck!!

Music Maker July 21 1947

From 1948 through to the end of 1950, Jack, Jill and Ray were employed full time for dances, radio broadcasts, weddings and parties.

Harrison family Again – Sixteen-year-old Musician to give further broadcast

Western Australia was represented last week in “National Fair” from 6IX-WB-MD by twins, Jack and Jill Harrison and elder brother Ray. The Harrison family was put up as the best musical family in Australia. Jack Harrison, the 16 year old lad who played both the saxophone and clarinet, was such a success that the producers asked him to put up another challenge, so he is again appearing in the programme next Wednesday as the best clarinettist in Australia. Jack will again be accompanied by his twin Jill on the piano, and his brother Ray on the drums. This time Jack will be playing the clarinet only. His item will be “Special Delivery Stomp” one of Artie Shaw’s favourites. So far this is the first time two challenges have been put up by the same person. The West Australian selectors hope that this challenge is unbeatable, but listeners can decide that for themselves when they hear what the other States can produce to take up this challenge. The other five states also will be presenting their “exhibits” on Wednesday night at 8 o’clock, some again challenging and others answering challenges previously set. If anyone who knows of anything or anybody who could possibly be used as an “exhibit” in “National Fair”, he or she is asked to communicate with W.A. Broadcasters Ltd., Lyric House, Perth.

The Broadcaster Saturday January 17 1948 Vol. 14, No. 720

On the Dial

The success of the Harrison Family (Jack, Jill and Ray) in the 6IX-WB-MD session “National Fair”, was demonstrated by the fact that they were engaged by the sponsors for a repeat performance the following week. When they were heard in the session for the first time Jack, who is 16 years of age, was nominated as the best clarinettist in Australia. So far no one has disputed the claim. There are no cash prizes for “National Fair”, but the session enables West Australian talent to be heard in the Eastern states. The programme is broadcast each Wednesday night at 8 o’clock.

The Broadcaster Saturday February 14 1948

On the Dial Harrisons Hit Jackpot in “National Fair”

Although “National Fair” (2UW Wednesday Night) has only been on the air a few weeks, already one of the “exhibits” has received an offer to appear on the A.B.C. This offer was made to the Western Australian Harrison family who appeared twice on “National Fair”, once as the “most musical family” in Australia and the second time Jack Harrison, accompanied by his twin sister Jill and elder brother Ray, appeared as the “best clarinettist”. “National Fair” is a new nation-wide radio competition in which each State of the Commonwealth puts up an “exhibit” which they claim to be the best of its kind in Australia. This “exhibit” which takes the form of a challenge to the other States, can be anything from a singing parrot to a dance band, or a pearl diver to a pianist – and so on. So far neither of the challenges issued by the Harrison family has been taken up by any of the other states in the commonwealth. The A.B.C. has engaged these clever, young musicians and they will soon be heard on their own half hour programme once a week on the State network. The producers of “National Fair” hope that this programme will bring to light many more talented people. Interesting entries continue to come in from all the States, some fantastic, amazing, others like the Harrison family, representing their State with their musical talent. [1]

[1] Music Maker February 20 1948

Jack Harrison will enter the “National Fair” arena once again on Wednesday night. The 16 year old Perth musicians will take up a challenge from Victoria to find a better harmonica player than Brucy Skurry. Jack’s harmonica solo in this 6IX-WB-MD session will be “Smoke Gets in your eyes”. He appeared in two early “National Fair” programmes with his brother Ray and twin sister Jill. They were nominated in the first instance as the best juvenile music-makers. Jack was nominated as the best clarinettist in Australia. To date, no other State has accepted either of the challenges from this versatile family.

The Broadcaster Saturday March 13 1948

1949 Jack Harrison Dance Band Trio: Jill, Ray and Jack

CAPITOL THEATRE SHOW – BATTLE OF THE BANDS CONTEST – VENTURE PROVES HUGE SUCCESS – WOOROLOO HOSPITAL QUEEN CONTEST

With a theatre almost packed to capacity hundreds of enthusiasts enjoyed an evening of boogie-woogie, jive, jazz and swing music which formed the principal part of the Capitol Theatre entertainment on 1st July last. During the evening Sammy Sharpe’s fifteen piece Orchestra rendered latest numbers from overseas. The Battle of the Bands proved most interesting, the honours going to the smallest ensembles in the contest. Sixteen year old Jack Harrison, with his twin sister and eighteen year old brother took home the colours in the form of a silver cup and a cheque for £25. Judgement of the winning band was based on applause by the audience and results were very close. Ron Jenkins and his band ran Jack Harrison a very close second, with Mrs Ashton’s Quartette third on the list. Prizes were presented by “Miss Liberty” (Elma Palmer) who afterwards thanked many people and organisations for very valuable assistance rendered to the cause. A good profit was the result of the evening. The Harrisons generously donated five pounds of the prize money to “Miss Liberty’s” Appeal. Shows of this nature prove conclusively that the Legion is fully capable of running large functions, and we feel sure that this addition to the cause will be much appreciated. To members of the Hospital Queen Committee and to all members of the Legion who rendered assistance we express our sincere thanks. We also extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the many firms whose assistance in various matters added tremendously to the success of the evening. To the contesting bands we owe a particular vote of thanks. Without the band there would not have been a contest. We feel that this Contest stimulated interest in the jazz-band world and we hope that in the future it will be possible to organise other functions of a similar nature. [2]

[2] The Legion (Legion of Liberty) August 1948

Billy Clowes, Sam Sharpe, Ray Harrison1948 The Second Jazz Jamboree

Already the bands concerned in this year’s “Jazz Jamboree” are working on their numbers for this colossal programme which shows every promise of superseding last year’s magnificent turn out. The bands listed to appear so far are – Merv Rowston’s, Jack Harrison’s, Ron Jenkin’s, A Jazz Group, Bill Kirkham’s, Chris Gosper’s and Sammy Sharp’s bands. This year a box plan will be opened and so it is hoped to avoid the terrific crush and queuing that took place last year – the queue was four deep, entirely encircling a complete city block – and was there for a couple of hours in pouring rain. Also – at last – proceeds from this year’s Jamboree go to the Musician’s own Benevolent Fund. [1]

[1] Music Maker October 1948

On 23^rd December 1948, Ray Harrison announced his engagement to Norma Webber. The ring was from Mazzuchelli’s in Hay Street, Perth and cost £21/-

Norma Laurel, third daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Webber, of 16 Lansdowne Street, Jolimont to Ramon Kerr, second son of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison, of 24 Highway, Nedlands.

1949 at 24 Highway Nedlands: Bill Jnr, Mavis, Jill, Norma Webber, Ray and Edna Harrison

The Mount Lawley Tennis Club dances held every second Friday was the place to go and Jack Harrison and his twin sister Jill and brother Ray supplied the music. Everyone knew everyone else everyone danced every dance. There was no alcohol and the man at the door made sure everyone was safe.

1949 Ray, Jill and Jack Harrison with Jack Pope (trumpet)

Kings Park Tennis Club held a similar type dance every alternate Saturday with the same band and the same people. Berwyn and Marcia caught a tram and a trolley bus to attend. Bob Pope who lived a few streets away often came as well this time. Margot Lang reminisced “when the Kings Park Tennis Club dance with Jackie Harrison’s band was a popular place for Nedland’s teenagers on Saturday nights, the girls would sometimes walk across Kings Park and down Jacob’s ladder to catch a trolley bus home on Mount Bay Road with never a worry about rapists lurking in the dark.”

LANG, Margot The West Australian Magazine, 11.8.1990 page 17

Jack Harrison augmented his swing band according to the requirements of functions, sometimes up to ten players, such as the April 22^nd 1949 University of Western Australia Graduation Ball at Winthrop Hall. Players were issued with a cheque on 5^th May 1949 and were paid 3 pound 2 and 6 for the gig. Players paid were: Norm Wrightson (saxophone), G. Kirkby, Jack Pope (trumpet), George Franklin (trumpet), C. Thompson, Bill Hendrie (guitar), N. Coates, Ray Harrison (drums), Jill Harrison (piano) and Jack was the tenth band member.

They competed in Harry Blucks “Jazz Jamborees”.

JAZZ JAMBOREE OF 1949 – EIGHT OF PERTH’S BEST BANDS – Alvan St. Jazz Group, Harry Black’s Swingtette, Jack Harrison’s Quintette, Ron Jenkins Lido Quartette, Ken Murdoch’s Band, Bill Kirkham’s Jive Band, Merv. Rowston’s Band, Sammy Sharp’s Band. CAPITOL THEATRE, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30th. ADMISSION: 3/6 (reserved). Box Plan at Nicholsons. [4]

[4] The West Australian Wednesday 19 October 1949 page 30

1949 Jazz Jamboree – Jack Harrison’s Dance Band

CONCERT AT CAPITOL (Sunday 2 Oct 1949) Good Response To Legacy Drive. The Legacy Club’s appeal for £ 10,000 benefited to the amount of £650 from the “Command Performance” on Sunday night at the Capitol Theatre. It was announced that in the two days since the appeal was launched, £1,500 had been donated and that an anonymous person had offered to donate £100 if five others would contribute a similar sum. The performance was compered by Mr. Dick Pair, of “Australia Hour” fame, produced by Mr. Michael Eustace and contributed to by star artists, all of whom gave their services free. The theatre was packed in all parts. Mr. Fair was piped on to the stage by the W.A. Caledonian Pipe Band. Mr. F. Gaved opened the programme with entertaining feats of magic, after which Mr. Charles Court (cornetist) rendered two items. Miss Pamela Flower’s contributions were followed by dance items by Mr. and Mrs. Wrightson and two sisters, Regina and Janina. Mr. Laurie Croisette, a London baritone, made his first appearance in Australia with two numbers and a guitar selection. Mr. Billy Edwards’s Specialty Harmonists (Messrs. L. Hancock, G. Griffiths, W. Frankish and L Richardson) were heard in three choruses, and Jack Harrison’s Swing Quartette was then heard. A male ballet of Y.A.L boys gave an exhibition of dancing and tap dancing. There was sustained applause for the blind pianist, Mr. Billy Clowes and Bette Whittaker and Phil Morgan. Mr. Albert Chappelle (baritone) had to respond to an encore. A banjo solo by Wally Hadley was also included. The accompanists were Mrs. N.W. Freemantle, Misses Phyllis Blott and Joan Drede and Mr. Billy Edwards. [3]

[3] The West Australian Tuesday 4 October 1949 page 6

Ray’s 21st: Jack, William, Ray Harrison and Norma Webber

17th July 1950 was Ray Harrison’s 21st birthday party.

His cake featured a tiny figurine drummer complete with drum kit.

25th July 1950 was the Silver Wedding anniversary of Ray’s parents and a party was held at the family home at 24 Highway Nedlands. [Ray’s parents William and Edna Harrison married 25 July 1925 = 25^th silver wedding anniversary].

1950 25th Wedding Anniversary party: Ray, Norma, Bill Snr, baby Susan with Edna, Jack, Mavis, Bill Jnr

Wedding of Ray Harrison and Norma Webber 1950

On 16^th December 1950 Ramon Kerr married Norma Laurel Webber at St George’s Cathedral Perth. Jill Harrison was a bridesmaid.

Ray announced his retirement from drumming.

Harrison Trio’s Separate Plans

The latest news from the musical Harrison family of Nedlands is that Ray Harrison, the elder brother of Jack and Jill, who are twins, has decided to finish up with his drumming work. This decision was made because of his marriage which took place on Saturday.

Jill is at present in Perth on holiday from the Adelaide Conservatorium of Music where for the past year she has been studying bassoon and piano under an Australian Broadcasting Commission scholarship. She is taking every advantage of the rest from studies, but is freelancing as a pianist for local dance bands.

Jack is settling into his new job as second clarinettist with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Henry Krips. He left Perth about six weeks ago to take up the position and, as symphony work is a vast changeover from his previous dance band work, he is taking every opportunity to acquaint himself with orchestral work. It is believed that he may soon form a swing quartet for the A.B.C. in Adelaide. Already plans are in hand for him to lead a quintet in the Adelaide Jazz Jamboree next year. Although he is liking his new job, he says he hopes to return to Perth eventually.

The Broadcaster Saturday December 30 1950

At this time his day job was at JOSEPH LUCUS BATTERIES & ELECTRICAL, in Wellington Street, Perth

In 1952 Ray returned to play a few gigs in addition to his day job.

Jack’s jazz ensemble (now consisting of Jack, Jill, Ray, John Mowson (bass) and Cliff Adams (guitar) was broadcast nationally on the ABC’s Swing Club.

1951 Jill with John Mowson (bass), Jack (vibes) and Ray (drums)

W.A. BAND ON NATIONAL HOOK-UP EARLY IN APRIL 1952

Thursday night Swing Club listeners in all States of the Commonwealth are to hear a broadcast by Jack Harrison’s Swing Quintette, one of Perth’s most outstanding modern style outfits. The group recently recorded a session for the Australian Broadcasting Commission, which is now due for an early airing.

This band is to some extent a family concern, with Jack himself, alto, tenor and clarinet; twin sister, Jill Harrison, piano; and Ray Harrison, drums. The remaining members of the group are one-time Brokensha bass man John Mowson and Cliff Adams guitar. Cliff is a well known Sydney musician and has played for many years at the Trocadero – the harbour city’s number one dance hall. In 1949 the family group won the “Battle of the Bands” in Perth and has been doing regular broadcast work since, in addition to its usual dance engagements. An interesting fact regarding Jack and Jill Harrison, and also John Mowson, is that they are still under twenty one years of age. In addition to this all three are members of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra. The group’s manager is yet another member of “the family” – William E. Harrison. –(TOM STERNE).

Music Maker Magazine April 1952

Radio Broadcast May 17 1952

The A.B.C.’s Thursday Night Swing Club is almost a family affair for there are three members of the Harrison family in the Jack Harrison Swing Quintette. Twenty year old Jack is on the saxophone and clarinet, twin sister Jill is pianist and Ray is drummer. Other members are John Mowson (bass) and Cliff Adams (guitar). Jack has been associated with radio shows for 12 years having appeared as a mouth organist in an amateur hour in 1940. Jack and Jill have graduated through swing music to the W.A. Symphony Orchestra. John Mowson is also a permanent member of the orchestra and Cliff Adams is well-known in Sydney as a member of the Trocadero Band.

The Broadcaster Saturday May 17 1952 Vol. 19 No. 946

12th August 1952 was the 21st birthday party of Ray’s siblings Jack and Jill and Jack announced his engagement to Marcia Chayter.

PEOPLE YOU LISTEN TO

Since he was five, Jack Harrison has been associated with the musical world together with his twin sister Jill. Both recently celebrated their 21^st birthday at a party which included many of the musicians. Jack and Jill are now members of the W.A. Symphony Orchestra playing the clarinet and bassoon respectively. He has won numerous prizes and at the age of eight won an Amateur Hour contest in Sydney. He worked in his father’s band until he decided to form his own which consisted usually of himself, Jill, elder brother Ray and guitarist Bill Hendrie. The Broadcaster Saturday August 16 1952

On 5^th May 1953 Ramon and Norma Harrison had their first child, Jeffrey Wayne.

HARRISON: To Norma and Ray,

on May 5, at St. John’s. Subiaco-a son (Jeffery Wayne). Both well.

Four generations: Baby Jeff, Ramon, Arthur Dight and William Edward Harrison

Around 1953 Ray switched jobs and worked for ELECTROLUX (which was next door to JOSEPH LUCUS BATTERIES & ELECTRICAL, Wellington Street, Perth) for 2 years.

Ray Harrison and Marcia’s mother Norma Chayter

Ray was a groomsman at Jack and Marcia’s wedding on 14^th December 1953.

By 1954, the Ray Harrison family were living at 18 Hammersley St, Cottesloe, Western Australia and on 5^th June 1955 had their second child, Julie Rae.

Ray went back to work with Joseph Lucus Batteries & Electrical for a couple of years until he got a better wage offer from Electrolux and returned to work for them until 1959.

1955

No. 5 Band – JACK HARRISON QUARTETTE

Numbers –

“Rachel’s Dream”
“The Man I Love”
“K.P. Jumps”

PERSONNEL: Jack Harrison (Clarinet, Sax, Trombone), Jill Harrison (Piano), Ray Harrison (Drums), John Mowson (Bass).

Sunday, October 9, 1955 – JIM RILEY SHOW – Capitol Theatre

Jill with John Mowson (bass), Jack (vibes) and Ray (drums)

No. 4. – JACK HARRISON’S GROUP

Numbers –

“Thou Swell”

“Lullaby of Birdland”

“K.P. Capers”

PERSONNEL: Jack Harrison (Sax, Clari-Leader) Terry Ingram (Piano) Ray Harrison Drums, Alex McMillan (Bass).

1^st September 1956 the Jack Harrison Trio performed at the wedding of Ken Waldron to Diana Robinson.

1959

In 1959 a position became available at DUDLEY RICHARDSON USED CARS, in Wellington Street, repairing and painting cars where Ray stayed for three years making life long friends with Dudley and Barbara Richardson.

Ray still played at night with brother Jack and pianist, Jimmy Beeson, performing at hundres of weddings and parties.

On 7th March 1959 Jack Harrison’s Trio played at the wedding of Sara Macliver’s parents, her mother , Anne Bird, being a friend of the Harrison family.

1961 ABC TV Jack and Ray Harrison with soprano Margot Robertson

ABW TO SCREEN BIRTHDAY SHOW

Thursday May 11 1961

By Keith Flanagan

ABW Channel 2 will tonight present its biggest live show yet, to celebrate its first birthday. There will be singers, dancers, a 25 piece orchestra and an invited audience of 200 for the two hour show.

Jock Millett will produce the cabaret style show in the Kirk Memorial Studio in the radio building – the biggest studio the A.B.C. has here. The record library will be taken over as a makeup room for the 44 people who will come before the cameras. Lighting in the studio will be equivalent to 1000 60 watt globes. Jim Fisher, Earl Reeve and Diana Ward will compere the show, to run from 8pm to 10.30pm, with a half hour break from 9 for the American documentary “Our Man in Space”.

Verdon Williams has formed a 25 piece orchestra for the show. Artists to appear are the Four Notes, Margot Robertson, Tony Federici, Carmen Arenas, Adriano Angelucci, Doris Dodd, Garry Smith and Derna Sluik, Jack Harrison, the Wrightsons, Lorna Sydney, Gerrard Sibbritt and Terri Charlesworth, Andre Tio, Peter Piccini and a demonstration ballroom group.

The West Australian Thursday May 11 1961

Ray Harrison, Bruce Wroth and Jimmy Beeson

Ray on drums (he still does some playing) and twins Jack and Jill on clarinet and bassoon. At 16 the twins and Ray formed their own dance band. Playing for a Perth College dance, Jack met pretty Marcia Chayter and later married her. She is not a professional musician. She plays the piano usefully and enjoys singing in the chorus of the Gilbert and Sullivan Society as contentedly as Kimberley plays one hymn, arranged by his father, for his Sunday school.

John Mowson now Principal double bass player in the W.A. Symphony Orchestra came from Melbourne and married Jill Harrison the bassoon player nearly 3 years ago. John and Jill were invited to join the Sydney Symphony Orchestra on a tour which included the Commonwealth Arts Festival in England and in Asian countries. They left their two children with Jill’s parents. Two years later they were asked to join the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for Expo 67 in Canada. There was then another little Mowson, so Penny, now eight, Peter showing musical promise at six and baby Paul were farmed out among the family. The family is scattered around Perth. Jack and Marcia Harrison have a delightful, modern, open-planned home at the end of the Dodonia Gardens City Beach with the coast down to Fremantle as picture in a picture window. The young have learnt to be quiet when music is going on in such a house, to listen with appreciation. But the whole family looks forward to having a music room so that making a noise when one wants to isn’t so important.

Daily News, Monday June 3 1968 page 10

MUSIC CAREER HAD EARLY START

7^th April 1970 – Geraldton

Jack Harrison, principal clarinettist of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra which will be visiting Geraldton next Tuesday, got quite an early start in music when he was presented with a mouth organ on his fifth birthday. To everyone’s surprise he was playing simple tunes on it within the hour. His father, realising that here was musical talent, started him off on the piano but it was not until the age of 12 that Jack found his true instrument the clarinet. Intensive study of this and the saxophone enabled Jack and his twin sister Jill and brother Ray to form a dance band in 1947 thus launching him on a professional career in music at the age of 16. He admits to being influenced at this time by the clarinet playing of one of the all-time greats Artie Shaw. Two years later, Jack formed a small specialised recording group for the A.B.C. and “Jack Harrison and his Music” has been heard all over Australia. His thoughts now turned to symphonic work and he accepted the post of second clarinet in the South Australian Symphony Orchestra and shortly after returned to Perth in 1951 to occupy a similar position in the West Australian Orchestra playing alongside his teacher Alan Rule. Jack took over the principal chair in 1966 and in addition to the Orchestra’s concerts, his distinguished playing has been heard widely in chamber music and solo work both in radio and television as well as in public. One of the most versatile musicians in the Orchestra, he is as equally at home playing “Moon River” on the mouth organ as in coping with the extreme difficulties of Copland’s Clarinet Concerto. Jack is married with three children – Jay 14, Kim 10 and Jody six. If you press him, he will confess to a fondness for golf as a relaxation. Fortunately for the Arnold Palmers of this world he is nowhere near the golfer that he is a musician. His handicap is 23.

The Geraldton Guardian Wednesday April 1 1970

Around 1963, brother Bill Jnr purchased Coolbev Hire in Nicholson road, Subiaco and asked his brother Ramon to work for him, which Ray did for a couple of years. Ray’s job was to deliver the gear and products for hire and sale to functions, such as alcohol, party and catering supplies.

This property was at 176 Stirling highway on the corner of Rockton Road, Claremont, which consisted of a bank on the corner with vacant land behind on which he built two shops. Bill used one of these shops for his real estate office and offered the other to his brother Ramon to rent.

Ray started his own business and had 3 registered business names: U Hire, Stall & Shelter Hire Service and Cottesloe Hire Service. These hires services provided equipment for fetes and fairs and party hire equipment such as coloured lights, trestles and chairs etc. Ray ceased this business on 15^th October 1965 after five years.

Ray then returned to Elextrolux as Store Manager until he retired in August 1985 at the age of 56,

Jack Harrison, Jill and John Mowson, Ray Harrison

2023 Ray Harrison’s 94th birthday with son Jeff and daughter Julie

Ramon passed away at his home 15 Frome Way, Cooloongup, Western Australia 12th November 2023 aged 94.

Ramon’s son Jeff learnt drums from his Dad.

Julie Harrison is a passionate genealogist who continues to contribute to this website on an ongoing basis. She worked for the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB).

Instruments

Drums

Years

1929

ANZAC Mounted Division Band Palestine

September 22, 2026

Hidden among the familiar stories of the battles, suffering and sacrifice of the Australian Light Horse lies an extraordinary story of 30 soldiers who could fight, ride—and make music. These were no part-time entertainers. The musicians of the Anzac Mounted Division were fully trained soldiers who were expected to put down their instruments, tie up their donkeys, sling rifles over their shoulders and fight alongside their brigades when called upon.

From 2 September 1917 in Palestine, these remarkably multi-disciplined ANZAC soldiers began to form what became the ANZAC Mounted Division Band. More than a century later, the story of this largely forgotten ensemble is being pieced together through a remarkable combination of a single band photograph and the wartime diaries of one of its members, the solitary Western Australian soldier and musician William Edward Harrison of Subiaco.

As is the case with Harrison’s diary, it details rather dull facts coupled with remarkable ones. Detailed daily army grind eventually whittles away to single sentences as conditions and the sheer challenge of staying alive become challenging. Life revolves around food, letters from home and not being killed by a mortar shell or disease. Teenage morals give way to necessity and Harrison lies, steals and boasts about survival feats that his parents would no doubt have punished him for back home in Subiaco.

Previously uncharacteristic behaviour is displayed by most band members as the war dictates their dreadful living conditions and their fragile mortality becomes evident. Brushing shoulders with highly esteemed officers and royalty is mentioned in the same sentence as how much alcohol was consumed after a performance. Passionate care of their equine partners is interspersed with violent assaults for a few oranges and what trumpet part was being performed that day.

Thirty ordinary blokes aged from 18 to 40 left Australia to fight for King and Country and were in the right place at the right time to throw together a functional band in Palestine. The joy of being able to play music together was clearly evident and the acknowledgment through financial assistance and permanent appointment to Chauvel’s headquarters placed this unlikely group at the front to provide much needed morale to send ANZAC soldiers to battle.

William Harrison’s diary details 140 performances over 20 months from their appointment until 28^th May 1919. Details of disease, disciplinary action and tactical circumstances swell and reduce the band numbers, with Harrison’s choice on discharge from hospital to stay two extra few weeks preferring “to go back to the Unit” indicative of the bond that was formed.

Grand Dance Carnival — White City

September 17, 2026

White City Orchestra dance carnival flyer, 1928

In May 1928 William Harrison’s “White City Orchestra” comprising of six instruments (Barney Barnard – drums, Bob Schenberg – violin, Billy Williams – trombone, George Mellor – trumpet, Vic Nicholls – saxophone, William Harrison – piano) played for a Grand Dance Carnival in the Town Hall at Geraldton. The poster advertising this event states “this band is noted for its snap, pep and good music, and has a state wide reputation, so that lovers of dancing should not fail to hear this wonderful combination.”

A CHAMPION MUSICIAN TO VISIT GERALDTON WITH WHITE CITY ORCHESTRA

Mr, Geo. Mellor, who will shortly be here as cornetist and manager with Bill Harrison’s Orchestra, is a man who has had many and varied experiences through life. Born in Newton, N.S.W., of a musical family, he commenced performing at the age of eight. In those days band contests were very popular and little George was a yearly contestant at Sydney and Ballarat. He has won no less than thirty two medals, apart from prizes for cornet playing. Since coming to Perth he has been conductor of the Perth City Band and of later years the R.S.L. Band. During the war he was well known to Diggers as bandmaster of the popular 16th Batt. band. Since the war he has spent some years touring the world with the Australian Commonwealth Band, and has just, returned from America with that combination. George is recognised as the leading cornetist in the West.[1]

[1] The Geraldton Express Monday 23 April 1928 page 3

Dizzy Fingers — Multi-Track Clarinet Recording

September 17, 2026

In 1960, clarinettist Jack Harrison recorded “Dizzy Fingers” by Zez Confrey playing all ten clarinet parts. The recordings were played at different speeds, backwards, and superimposed onto the master tape by ABC technician Garry Matthews at Broadcast House.

The Sunday Times, 13 March 1960: “Versatile musician Jack Harrison recently made a recording playing ten parts on clarinet. The finished work will be broadcast on Peter Harrison’s 6WN programme Saturday Roundabout.”