Person

FEDERICI, Anthony "Tony"

Antonio Federici was born in 1912 in Bologna, Provincia di Asti, Piemonte, Italy.

He came to Australia in 1930 and was known as Anthony, Tony and occasionally Peter. He was a versatile musician playing trombone, mandolin and guitar.

1936

In 1936 auditions, overseen by Ernest J. Roberts, were held in order to establish a nucleus of Perth musicians to augment the 6.W.F. Studio Orchestra for public concerts given by the Perth Symphony Orchestra.

1930s Perth Studio Orchestra in front of old ABC building.

BACK L-R: Fred Flint, Tony Federici, Harry Singleton, Rima Swain, Lazar Sverdloff, Ivan Nylander, Alec Black, Vera Rees, Percy Newton, William Glassford, George Davies, Bob Trew, George Mellor.

FRONT: ?, Vaughan Hanly, Dave Kember, Harold Thornton, ?.

Those chosen for the coveted positions were: Vera Rees (Waterman) as the leader, Lazar Sverdloff and Dorothy Formby 1^st violins, Bill Glassford 2^nd violin, Bob Stirling viola, Zlata Kalmikoff cello, Freddy Flint bass, Harry Singleton oboe, Fred Payne flute, Percy Newton clarinet, George Mellor 1^st trumpet, Ivan Nylander 2^nd trumpet, Tony Federici trombone, George Reid drums and Rima Swain piano.

Harrison, Marcia, West Australian Symphony Orchestra Celebrating 75 Years, (WASO Holdings Pty Ltd, 2003). P.11

Broadcast 23 May 1936

9.35: “The Gypsy Players”: Lazar Sverdloff (violin), Zlata Kalmikoff (cello), Phyllis Blott (piano), A. Federici (guitar), in association with Enrico Rigattieri (tenor).

GYPSY SONGS AND DANCES TONIGHT

Tonight’s national broadcast: “The Gypsy Quartette” have a programme of love, songs and Russian gypsy selections for presentation at 8.20. Enrico Rigattieri will provide the vocal interludes.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Tuesday 30 June 1936, page 10

RADIO ARTISTS INJURED. Bus Accident on Wagin Trip.

When returning to Perth early yesterday morning from the Wagin Town Hall, where a concert had been given in celebration of the opening of the new broadcasting station 6WA, a party of radio artists from Perth National Station met trouble. They were travelling in two buses and several motor cars. As one of the buses, containing about 20 passengers, turned from the Wagin Road into Albany-road, it skidded across Albany-road. Its complete overturn was prevented when it collided with a tree. Glass in the windows was smashed, and the flying pieces gashed several of the passengers, three of whom were taken in a St John ambulance and a motor car to the Wagin Hospital, where they were admitted for treatment. These were Mr. Duncan Morison, a pianist who has been touring Australia with Mr. Sydney McEwan, the Scottish tenor; Mr. Fred Payne (flautist) and Mr. Anthony Federici (trombone player), members of the Australian Broadcasting Commission’s Perth Concert Orchestra. None of the passengers was seriously injured, though the double bass played by Mr. Fred Flint was smashed to pieces. With the aid of passing cars and the other vehicles of the party, the occupants of the damaged bus completed their journey to Perth. News was received in Perth yesterday that the injured persons were recovering. It was announced that, despite the casualties, the band would keep its engagements.

West Australian (Perth, WA), Wednesday 9 December 1936, page 24

Later details in connection with the accident to a Perth motor Iras at the intersection of the Wagin and Perth roads on Monday night indicate that 20 radio artists were involved, a number of whom sustained minor injuries, three being gashed with flying, glass seriously enough to require treatment at the Wagin Hospital. These were Messrs. Duncan Morison (pianist), Fred Payne (flautist) and Anthony Federici (trombone player). The fact that although several saxophone players were included in the party none was hurt shows what strange freaks Fate sometimes plays.

Great Southern Herald (Katanning, WA : 1901 – 1966), Saturday 12 December 1936, page 2

1939

ORCHESTRA AND SINGER. Promenade Concert at Capitol.

It was an unusual treat for those who attend the fortnightly promenade concerts presented by the Australian Broadcasting Commission at the Capitol Theatre to have a celebrity on last night’s programme. A larger number than usual gathered as a result of the announcement that Lord Lurgan would sing. The visiting baritone was listed for three items, but so insistent was the audience that after recalls he gave extras which were no less satisfying than his principal numbers. He repeated the excerpt from Messager’s opera, “Monsieur Beaucaire,” which he gave in his first recital last Wednesday and sang Frederick Keel’s “Trade Winds” and “Bird Songs at Eventide” (Eric Coates). As encores he gave “River Shannon” (Reginald Moore) and the well-known negro spiritual. “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.” The programme numbers were accompanied by muted orchestra, and the extras by piano. Two charming brackets, one being three “Nell Gwynne” dances by Edward German and the other Massenet’s “Scenes Pittoresques,” were the outstanding contributions from the orchestra, which was under the baton of Mr. Ernest J. Roberts. The strength of the orchestra was reduced from the usual standard by the absence of a number of the stringed instruments, the most notable results being a diminution in the bass. The opening overture was that from von Suppe’s opera Light Cavalry,” and was taken with appropriate brightness. Other popular items were Kreisler’s “Schon Rosmarin” and Moszkowski’s “Serenade,” and the operatic selection was from Sullivan’s “H.M.S. Pinafore” and was particularly well received. Billed as a solo item for piano with orchestra, a sequence of Strauss waltz themes arranged by Borschel was rather an orchestral presentation with prominent ornamentation from the piano, Miss Rima Swain being the star of the moment. Her keyboard technique was pleasing, her arpeggios and similar ornamentations being particularly fluent. Another solo item with orchestra was “Sliding Jim” (Losey), the soloist being Mr. Anthony Federici on the trombone. The evening ended with the playing and singing of the hymn “Rock of Ages”.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Monday 17 July 1939, page 9

Harrison, Marcia, West Australian Symphony Orchestra Celebrating 75 Years, (WASO Holdings Pty Ltd, 2003). P.22

1940

Tony married Olive Cecelia Mudford in 1940 and they initially lived at 26 Park Street, Subiaco.

1951 Ivan, Jack Harrison, Viv, John Mowson, Tony Federici

1952

Iwan Iwanoff and his wife, Linda, migrated to Australia as part of the International Refugee Organisation resettlement scheme, arriving in Fremantle, Western Australia in March 1950. In 1951, Jack Harrison joined the West Australian Symphony Orchestra as second clarinet. The Principal Trombonist of WASO was Anthony “Tony” Federici, who had been in the orchestra since 1936. In the early 1950’s, Tony had a flat in the same Riverside Drive block as Iwanoff, just a short walk from the ABC building where WASO rehearsed. Tony apparently showed Jack an Iwanoff house being built in Subiaco. There were 2 houses in Subiaco in 1953 – one in Roberts Road for Nicoloff, and one at 102 Barker Road for Lazar Sverdloff.

Iwan Iwanoff caricature of Tony Federici

10.8.1954

FLINT (Fred): On Aug. 7, dear friend of Tony and Olive Federici.

Dear memories.

1958

1950s WASO tour Viv Nylander, Jill Cooper, Louise Arndt and Tony Federici

1959

In 1959 Tony established the ensemble “Typica Latina” with Carmen Watts which performed in radio broadcasts and also toured and was a member of the “Lido Quintet”.

WORTH REPORTING

Two of the Lido Quintet, Victor Mestichelli (left) and Tony Federici, show two Derby children how to play the accordion and the guitar.

LOCAL halls were packed and the nor’westers went wild when a concert party recently travelled beyond Geraldton into the vast north of Western Australia.

The concerts were staged at Derby, Darwin, Port Hedland, Wittenoom Gorge, and

Carnarvon. Audiences travelled hundreds of miles from inland stations, and flocked into Darwin from Rum Jungle. The concerts were given by the A.B.C. Lido Quintet, specially formed for the tour from the ranks of the A.B.C.’s

Tipica Latina group, heard in the National relay. “It was a wonderful experience, a wonderful place, with wonderful people,” Tony Federici, the quintet’s leader told us. But there were some be-hind-the-scenes difficulties to cope with. Take the case of Mario Burlini, the quintet’s clarinettist. His ears were affected by the plane trips. And at times he was so deaf he couldn’t hear the other boys playing. But he didn’t give in. By following the boom-boom of Eric King’s bass drum and counting bars, Mario didn’t miss a beat. And accordionist Victor Mestichelli was so airsick that he sat propped in his chair on stage with his accordion strapped to him only staggering to his feet for solo numbers.

Australian Women’s Weekly (1933 – 1982), Wednesday 7 October 1959, page 31

1961

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

MEMBERS OF THE W.A. SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

were in a gay mood as they boarded the bus after a stop on their way back to Perth from a recent tour of the South West. In the picture below are Tony Federici (trombone), Brian Hanley (violin) and Norm Bourke (music presentation assistant) while the bus driver and proprietress of the hotel look a little bewildered by it all. On the extreme right is Jack Harrison (clarinet) who took the precaution of wearing a raincoat to defend himself against the water pistols they are all brandishing.

Radio Active May 1961

1965

1967

Principal Trombone player Tony Federici (sometimes known as Peter) was another talented and versatile player. Aswell as leading a small ensemble called “Typica Latina”, any time Mozart’s Don Giovanni sand his serenade “Deh vieni alla finestra” under the window it was Tony who exquisitely played the mandolin accompaniment. He was also a barber and was happy to set up a shop in his garden to cut the hair of unwilling children belonging to other members of the orchestra. Jack Harrison’s son Jay was one of these children, as he was afraid of men in white coats due to too many visits to hospital as a child and associated the white coats of shop barbers.

Harrison, Marcia, West Australian Symphony Orchestra Celebrating 75 Years, (WASO Holdings Pty Ltd, 2003). P.35

Tony Federici retired from the West Australian Symphony Orchestra in 1972 after 36 years of service.

Government House,

Canberra, A.C.T. 2600

HER Majesty the Queen has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the Imperial Service Medal to the following persons on their retirement:

Australian Broadcasting Commission

Federici, Antonio, formerly Principal Trombonist,

West Australian Symphony Orchestra, Perth, Western Australia.

Commonwealth of Australia Gazette (National : 1901 – 1973), Thursday 2 November 1972 (No.103), page 1

Tony died just 7 years later aged 66 on 14th March 1979.

Instruments

Person

HENDRIE, Bill

1937

Community Singing

An enjoyable evening was spent on last Thursday evening, when the community concerts again resumed after a month’s recess. Mr. Abel again wielded the baton and music was provided by Mrs. Manea, Mr. Allen and Mr. Rasmussen. Items were rendered by Barbara Lee (song , and dance), Messrs. Jefferis (songs), Bill Hendrie (mouth organ and ukelele). Rasmussen (song and guitar) and a duet by Bill Hendrie and Vic Rasmussen.

Albany Advertiser (WA : 1897 – 1965), Thursday 23 December 1937, page 4

1942

COMMUNITY CONCERT AN OUTSTANDING SUCCESS.

For the first time within our recollection, people were turned away from the Narrogin Town Hall last Tuesday, despite the fact that extra seats were packed to within a few feet of the stage. The occasion was the Community Concert presented by the men of the 109 Convalescent Camp. The Concert proved thoroughly enjoyable to the huge crowd from start to finish, and those present were no doubt surprised at the unexpected number of talented artists convalescing in our midst. d A seven-piece swing bend dispensed delightful music, and the various artists thoroughly deserved the prolonged applause which followed practically every item. The versatility of one artist in particular—Bill Hendrie—was the subject of quite a lot of comment. This young man accompanied practically every artist on his guitar throughout the night, was a member of the band, was encored three times in his imitation of George Formby, gave two difficult and delightful renderings on the mouth organ, and caused amusement in one of the final numbers by the band when he brought a cello on to the stage and plucked this to some purpose. It would take too much space to give full commendation to each individual artist. Suffice it to say that they all gave very creditable performances, and we hope to see more of them in the near future.

Narrogin Observer (WA : 1918 – 1955), Saturday 7 November 1942, page 1

1948

W.A. Pianist Impresses Sydney’s Rhythm Fans

Although only a few months have elapsed since youthful, unassuming WA pianist Ray Hartley left Perth to try his luck in Sydney musical circles, already he has rocketed towards success as an ivory-tickler and arranger.

Last Friday the ‘Ray Hartley Trio and Joanne,’ in association with famous orchestra leader Eric Tann, created a sensation in a concert at the Sydney Town Hall. Tann is so impressed with Hartley’s ability that he intends to take him to Eng-land when he returns next year. Ray Hartley hails from Kellerberrin, and the vocalist in his trio, Joan Robinson, is also a Perth girl, formerly Joan Hill. Other Hartley Trio members are Don Andrews (guitar), late of Fred Hartley’s Quintet, and Reg Robinson (bass), Reg uses a 5-string bass, which gives him an average of 16 notes above middle C. Trio has broadcasted over the ABC and station 2CH, and at present they are rehearsing for a recording session at Columbia studio at Homebush, Sydney. When Ray Hartley first went to the Eastern States,

he studied under Perth pianist Jim Riley, who is now at the Trocadero. He carried with him a let-ter of introduction from local band leader Sammy Sharpe to Eric Tann, and after an audition was taken into Tann’s band at Romano’s. Original Hartley trio will be remembered by Perth swing fans for their radio work and success at the last Jazz Jam-boree at the Capital Theatre. Other members of the old outfit are well-known Perth rhythm men Ralph Filmer and Bill Hendrie. In preparation for his forthcoming trip overseas, Ray Hartley is at the moment studying at the Sydney Conservatorium.

SYDNEY PICTURE of Perth pianist Ray Hartley and his band which is doing well in that city. From left: Ray, Don Andrews (guitarist), Joan Robinson (vocalist, formerly Joan Hill of Perth) and Reg Robinson (bass player).

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 9 October 1948, page 15

1948 Jack Harrison Quintet with Ralph Filmer and Hendrie

Jack Harrison’s New Role Jack Harrison, a mouth organist, has broadcast from every capital city in the Commonwealth and is well known to listeners in this State. He will be shortly heard from the National stations in an entirely new role – as leader of his own swing quartette. He will use mainly the alto sax and clarinet, but for variation will sometimes express himself with the tenor sax or the harmonica. At the age of 16, Jack is considered Australia’s youngest dance band leader. Other members of the quartette are Bill Hendrie (guitar), Jack Harrison’s sister Jill (pianist with a modern trend) and brother Ray (drummer). They are both well known to Perth dancers. Bill Hendrie is a local boy who has spent some time in the Eastern states and has been associated musically with Jim Davidson, Reg Lewis and other well-known band leaders. Bill is considered to be among Australia’s best guitarists and an expert on modern harmony. The quartette intends to present modern arrangements of old and new tunes in such a manner as to appeal both to teenagers and listeners of more mature years. The Broadcaster Saturday March 20 1948 Vol 14, No 729

Big Jazz Jamboree Mystery

Perth’s hep-cats are properly mystified. No one will tell them the identity of a mystery band which will play at the big jazz jamboree at the Capitol on

Sunday night, Oct. 31. Anyone who solves this Top Swing Secret gets a prize— 6 swing records, no less! Eight bands will play, led by Merv Rowston, Jackie Harrison, Chris Gosper, Ken Murdoch, Sammy Sharp, Ron Jenkins, Bill Kirkham and Harry Bluck. The Mirror Saturday 23 October 1948 page 4

According to The Broadcaster Saturday November 6 1948 Vol 15. No 762, “The mystery band of the evening, a two piece unit consisting of Bill Hendrie on the guitar and Ralph Filmer on the bass gave an unusual rendition of “Waltzing Matilda””.

Mirth and Music – ARTISTS

Members of Dave Howard’s Mirth and Music Show met last week and extended best wishes to Miss Betty Bahen, one of its members, prior to her marriage to Mr. Geoff Hammond. On behalf of the troupe, Miss Nell Shortland-Jones presented Miss Bahen with a wedding gift. Those present were Miss Betty Whittaker, Miss Olwyn Thomas, Miss Rhoda Allen, Miss Sylvia Caporn, Mr. Ernest Paulasto, Mr. Fred Paulasto, Mr. Albert Chappelle, Mr. Harry Bluck, Mr. Dave Howard, Mr. Geoff Wilbur, Mr. Ralph Filmer, Mr. Bill Hendrie, Mr. Harold Malcolm, Mr. James Congdon, Mr. Jack Harrison, Mr. Billy Edwards and Mr. Harry Graham.

Western Mail Thursday 9 December 1948 page 37

1949

Jack 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.

GRADUATION BALL

8.30pm – 2am

April 22 1949 Winthrop Hall, University

In Aid of World Student relief

ADMISSION Double Ticket 24/7 (inc tax.)

Jack Harrison’s Ten Piece Orchestra – bookings at Nicholsons

AROUND PERTH – WITH HARRY BLUCK

Ball Season Starts Rolling in Perth

Heavy Bookings as Biz Booms

The annual outcrop of balls generally makes its presence felt about this time of the year and already some of the earliest have taken place. This season promises to be a busier one than previously and some large-sized bands should be seen on the various stands. Already, youthful Jack Harrison has made a good start by fronting a 10 piece outfit at the University Graduation Ball, and from all accounts the ultimate sound of the band justified the Harrison judgement in selecting good players as his support.

Music Maker and Dance Band News May 1949

5 MAY 1949

JACK HARRISON Cheque to:

Norm Wrightson Grad Ball £3/2/6

Kirkby Grad Ball £3/2/6
Pope Grad Ball £3/2/6
Franklin Grad Ball £3/2/6
Thompson Grad Ball £3/2/6
Hendrie Grad Ball £3/2/6
Coates Grad Ball £3/2/6

Ray Harrison Grad Ball £3/2/6

Jill Harrison Grad Ball £3/2/6

(photo) The Rhythmettes: A combination regularly featured in “Mirth and Music” from 6WF on Tuesday nights. Left to right: Harry Bluck (leader, piano accordionist and arranger), Jack Harrison (clarinet), Sylvia Caporn (pianist), Ralph Filmer (bass), George Hay (guitar) and Bill Hendrie (guitar).

The Broadcaster Saturday July 2 1949 Vol. 16. No. 796

6WF SWING SHOW

Revolutionising Radio History in this state, WF turned on a half hour session in which four local bands were featured. They were as follows

The W.A. JAZZ GROUP

JACK HARRISON QUARTET

A.B.C. RHYTHMETTES.

Tempo The Australian Musical News Magazine July 1949 Vol. 12 No. 10

4 JULY 1949

JACK Cheque to: Jack Pope Womens College £5/3

Colin Youlden Womens College £2/11/8

Bill Kirkham Womens College £2/11/8

Charlie Thompson Womens College £2/11/8

George Franklin Womens College £2/11/8

Bill Hendrie Womens College £2/11/8

Roy Coates Womens College £2/11/8

16 JULY 1949

JACK Cheque to: Ray Harrison Wages £5/14

Jill Harrison Wages £5/14

Bill Hendrie Comm. Bank £1/14

29 JULY 1949

JACK Cheque to: Ray Harrison Wages £5/08

Jill Harrison Wages £1/18/8

13 AUGUST 1949

JACK Cheque to: Ray Harrison Wages £7/2/3

21 AUGUST 1949

JACK Cheque to: Bill Hendrie University £3/1

1950

Molly’s People and Parties

SPOTTED attractive young men-about-town Bill Hendry and Laurie Malulich in deep discussion which looked like going on for hours. Laurie is an ardent collector of futuristic discs of the ‘Bop’ idiom. Bill is still leading his ”Day Dreamers’ ensemble on the National network. By the way, old pal Arthur Murray is still doing the vocals on Bill’s session — and singing better than ever.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 29 April 1950, page 12

Monday 7^th August 1950

Jack: Cheque to: Bill Hendrie C.G.C £3/8/6

PEOPLE YOU LISTEN TO

(photo) Admiring the engagement ring of Marcia Harrison (left) are fiancé Jack Harrison and twin sister Jill at a party held at the Nedlands Tennis Club to celebrate their coming of age.

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.

Jack has played in A.B.C. shows and at the present time has a session in which his quintet plays light classical music. He was for a while in the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra and studied the clarinet under the late Percy Newton (brother of John Nugent Hayward), Alan rule and Clive Amadio. At the party Jack’s engagement to A.B.C. typist Marcia Chayter was announced.

The Broadcaster Saturday August 16 1952

Instruments

Years

1937

Person

HADLEY, Wally

1935

Success of Perth Orchestra in Ceylon and India

Local musicians will be interested to know that Miss Leoni (Dot) Salter and her orchestra of Western Australian professional musicians have made a sensational hit throughout their engagements in India. Leaving Perth late last year, they went to Colombo under engagement to the Hotel Mount Lavinia, and after a most successful season of several months they were then booked for the Grand Hotel, Calcutta, by appointment to His Excellency the Earl of Willingdon, Viceroy of India, where a further outstanding success was achieved. They were the highest-paid artists in any Calcutta hotel. Their performances attracted a great deal of interest, and local residents gained the impression that it was an All-American band, and great was their surprise to know that it consisted entirely of Australians.

Finishing their engagement at the Grand Hotel, they are now doing a return season at the Hotel Mount Lavinia. Accompanying Miss Salter are the Misses Edna and Leah Waterman, and Messrs. Niddy Roberts, Wally Hadley, Sam Sharp and George Caro.

Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 – 1955), Sunday 8 September 1935, page 25

1947

Ice Skating Star – Mrs. Wally Hadley

TWEED-CLAD, with a gay painted Jacgmar scarf knotted casually around her neck, London style, Mrs. Wally Hadley, formerly Miss Joan Lovell, one of England’s ice skating stars called in last week. This tall, slight young woman with ashblonde hair, her West Australian banjoist husband and three young sons are among recent arrivals from England. Staying at Cannington with Mr. and Mrs. George Hadley, they had come up to spend the day with dance-band leader Sammy Sharpe and bis wife, old friends whom they had not seen for eight or nine years. Mrs. Hadley who began her ice skating career at 19, said she had given it up five years ago when her third child was born; looking after a family in wartime England was a full-time job on its own, she declared. With the Phil and Meagan Taylor Winter Sports Show for a number of years, Mrs. Hadley said she had skated in almost every town , in England, as well as touring Holland. But for family responsibilities, Australia would have met her years ago when the Phil and Meagan Taylor Company toured the Commonwealth.

The Hadleys will probably settle in Perth, when Mr. Hadley’s Australian tour is over, but with plans so indefinite, Mrs Hadley seemed content to wave off the future while concentrating on adjustments to a life “so completely different” to that which she had known. Change of environment had apparently been no setback to the three young Hadley hopefuls aged 12, 10 and five. The elder two are already settled down in Cannington school and hoping to take part in localshow day events, while the five year old, although he had completed a year’s schooling in England, was able to revel in an unexpected holiday, still being below school age here.

Western Mail (Perth, WA : 1885 – 1954), Thursday 9 October 1947, page 4

1950

All Together With A Tra-la-la

EVERY musicker of note turned up at the Jack and Dudie Pateman’s Nedlands home for the serious business of wetting baby Graeme William’s head. They packed the women off to Sylvia Caporn’s home and the ”boys’ had a right royal time. During the arvo Harry Bluck cheffed up spag. savories and what have you. Pete Sullivan (not the curly headed one) brought a can of Indian curry. A spokeshavian playlet ‘Cinderella’ was produced by Maestro Beeson, featured Alan Gough, Cliff Adam, Pete Harrison, Merv Rowston and ‘Lily of the Valley’ Roberts. It was a real classic. Kev Logan even stopped hibernating and made an attempt to hydrate himself. They nearly sold him a sax. Sam Sharp put on a happy time and the beer flowed like wine. Ray Le Cornu did a job with the kegs. Chick helped the food along. Wally Hadley, Maurice Maurice, Keith Whittle. ‘Mule Train,’ George Caro, ‘Cigarettes’ Cooke, Baden Flxter, Butch Kirkby, Bill Kirkham, Henry Cochran. were ell in it. At nine o’clock sharp they drank a special toast to George Franklin— wherever he might have been between here and Curfew rang at 2 a.m and everyone departed for their homes. They tell me the Patemans have since bought a block and 3 tents in case of repercussions from neighbours who may dislike jazz, Dixieland — and just plain noise.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 20 May 1950, page 12

1952

Wally Hadley, who organised this year’s Jazz Jamboree, has been a guitarist for 22 years. He left Perth in 1934 and after playing at famous hotels in India and Ceylon went on to England where he joined up with Freddy Morgan to form a banjo duo.

Freddy Morgan, incidentally, is now with Spike Jones. This act toured the US, the Continent — playing at one time with the Folies Bergere — and also did two tours of Australia with the Tivoli Circuit.

Famous names with whom Wally Hadley has worked Include Ted Ray, Ronald Frankau, Max Miller and Josephine Baker. Wally, a printer by trade, works at the Government Printing Office. He ranks as topliners In his particular field, American banjoist Harry Reser and French guitarist Django Reinhardt.

1953

IMPROMPTU JAM STOLE THE SHOW

An impromptu jam session nearly stole the show at Thursday night’s WA Amateur Dance Band Concert at the Capitol Theatre. Composite band of members who had competed earlier, really went to town and had patrons rocking in their seats. Jam band was led by internationally known Harry Phillips on the trumpet and Sid Vandervelde on guitar. Boys really turned it on and the crowd went wild. Even when Sammy Sharp came forward to announce the night’s awards the audience clamoured for another spread of jam. So, a grinning Sammy waved the boys to continue. Night was a feast of bounce, jive and bop with the amateur instrumentalists showing enough promise to indicate that many will soon be making pro names for themselves. Hundreds were present to hear 13 outfits, ranging in size from 4 to 11 pieces, vie with one another in a variety of Jazz renditions. Judges Ken Murdock, Ron Moyle, Merv Rowston, Harry Bluck and Bill Kirkham were not set an easy task. Finally, they awarded the shield to the West Coast Dixielanders, a 7 -piece outfit led by Phil Battey on trumpet, George Battey, clarinet, Dick Hatton, trombone. Conn Goldsmith, bass, Bob Anderson, piano. Alan Blight, drums, and Vince Goldsmith, guitar. These boys have been playing together less than a year and decided at the last minute to enter the contest They will hold the shield until next year’s contests.

The Dixielanders all prefer the type of music their name suggests is their special dish and are keen on the Jelly Roll Morton school. Second place went to Neil Manno’s Quintette with the Jive Five led by Wynne Hammer third. Other awards were: Best Instrumentalist; Ray Taylor, trumpet. Best Guitar: Jimmy Taylor. Best Drummer: Wynne Hammer. Best Pianist: Thelma McGrath. Best Vocalist: Bill Groessler. Most promising reed player was 17-y-o Neil Boon, a Dutch youth. Organisers, the W A Musicians’ Union, Sammy Sharpe and compere Wally Hadley are to be congratulated on a good show which all agreed was a great improvement on previous contests and augurs well for the future of dance music in this State. Saw quite a sprinkling of musicians who have given up regular playing in the audience at the Capitol, including Harry Ward and Laurie McGrath.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 25 July 1953, page 11

NOTES ON THE DANCE BANDS

Thursday 27 August 1953

The Inkspots, not the famed coloured outfit, but a group of well-known business, sporting and musical folk who usually gather at popular Clive McMillan’s home, held a ladies’ night at the Continental, Claremont, on Thursday last. Guests included the following: Clive McMillan, Steve McHenry, Murray Church, Merv Rowston, Morry Maurice, Cliff Adam, Jim Beeson, Wally Hadley, Roy Delamere, Reg Benjamin, Jack and Jill Harrison, Johnny Mowson, Dr. Willington, Cyril Bird and Reg North. Mine host Harry Ward entertained on the banjo and joined the boys on trombone in several jam sessions.

Mirror Saturday 29 August 1953 page 13

An effort is being made to have a reunion of players of Ron Moyle’s old band. – These include: Ron Moyle (pianist and leader), Cliff Adam (guitar, vocals and tapdancing), Niddy Roberts (drums), Wally Hadley (banjo), Tommy Bennett (bass), Ken Pimmell and Viv Nylander (trumpets), Charles Thompson (trombone), Alan Gough, George Caro, Bob Gibson (saxes).

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 24 October 1953, page 12

Wally Hadley and Sammy Sharp were interviewed by Andrew Bisset for the History of jazz in Australia collection [sound recording]

https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/4604482

Bisset, Andrew. Black Roots White Flowers. Globe, 1987.

Instruments

Years

1947

Person

ADAM, Cliff

1932

BRIGHT AND CLEAN – Luxor Presents Snappy Show – (By “Grease Paint”)

This week’s show at the Luxor Theatre is bright, snappy and clean. The first half finale has an Hawaiian atmosphere in which Dixie and D’Raine and Cliff Adam contribute several melodious numbers on the ukulele and guitar, while Desiree Maurice, Nat Hanley and Joe ValJi supply the humor. Other bright and popular numbers in this half are songs by May Webster, Joe Valli (the Un-canny Scot), Fred Moore, Kath Esler and a male quartette, comprising Joe, Hughie, Cliff and Fred and Thelma Pittar. Cliff Adams and the ballet present “Ballet Artistique.”

The second half introduces some real clever work by popular Nat Hanley who showed his versatility on the piano (he had to give several encores), and some first class work is done by Desiree Maurice and Joe Valli in a sketch written by the latter entitled “Not a Word to the Wife.” A number that received long and sustained applause was that of the “Clifton Duo” (Bootsie Williams and Cliff Adams), step and tap dancers of outstanding ability. A clever kiddie in Thelma Barrey puts over a good contortionist act. The revue written by Nat Hanley and called “Cowboys and Clues” is built around the exploits of two comical cowboys (Nat Hanley and Joe Valli) who expose a supposedly-wealthy Mexican Don as a card-sharper and murderer. Some splendid acting is seen from Desiree Maurice, Dot D’Raine, and Charles Baker (Don Pedro Garcia); the latter’s fine voice was also heard to good effect in that one-time popular song “Marcheta.” A brightly-frocked and clever ballet, good support from the talented Luxor orchestra and colorful and artistic backgrounds (the work of Alf Maurice) help to make this week’s show one of the. best yet presented to Luxor fans.

New Call (Perth, WA : 1931 – 1934), Thursday 14 April 1932, page 17

“SHOW GAME PERSONALITIES – What They Do Outside The Theatres No. 7.— “The Versatile Duo.” (By D.M.S.).

AN act that has been receiving well-deserved applause at the Luxor Theatre is provided by that versatile couple, Bootsie Williams and Cliff Adams. Both are exceptionally fine and versatile exponents of the terpsichorean art and are comparative youngsters in both age and length of time spent in team work. But their work is well up to the standard of any yet seen in Perth. Both were born in the West and are also former pupils of Miss Emmie Gable.

“BOOTSIE” WILLIAMS had her first lesson at the age of thirteen, and besides being a classy stepper is also in a class of her own as an acrobat and wire-rope walker. V, hen fifteen she went on a two-years’ tour of the North West as a member of the Sylvester Co., and whilst on this tour, had with the other members of the company the unenviable experience of being lost for three days. Returning to Perth she and a partner appeared at Hoyts’ Regent Theatre in a dancing act which included exhibitions of the “Black Bottom,” and “Varsity Drag.”When When the Ambassadors opened she was a member of the ballet and remained with it for two and a half years. Th? last six months she has been a member of that sextette of bonny steppers around at the Luxor, and just recently teamed up with her partner.

KNOWS A LOT: Cliff Adam like his partner is not confined to dancing alone. A clever musician he plays the ukelele, guitar and banjo, and has appeared in numbers with Dixie and D’Raine (well known and popular entertainers with Luxorites), he can sing a good song and is also a good acrobat. His first stage appearance was as a juvenile in the Nellie Brainley Co. some years ago. Three years ago he received his first dancing lessons, and has appeared at the Ambassadors, Regent, Capitol and suburban theatres. He was a member of the Prince of Wales male ballet and then after a season at the Capitol Theatre joined up with the Milton and Adams Co. at the Luxor. When Brock and Thompson (whose whirlwind dance was an outstanding number in the “Golddiggers of Broadway”) were in Perth, Cliff Adams’ ability as a tap dancer was favourably commented on and both predicted that in a few years he would be among the top-notchers. Both Cliff and his partner are quiet and unassuming types of young Australians and the sort who wherever they might be will always bring credit to themselves and Western Australia. and the wish of “The New Call” is good luck, good hunting and the greatest success in the near future.

New Call (Perth, WA : 1931 – 1934), Thursday 21 April 1932, page 6

1933

LOCAL BAND HONOURED. – Engagements in Eastern States.

For the first time in broadcasting history a West Australian band has been engaged through the Australian Broadcasting Commission to give performances over the air in the Eastern States. Ron Moyle and his ‘Westralians,’ a combination of local performers, will leave for Adelaide by the Great Western express on Saturday, night, and will be absent for about six weeks. The ‘Westralians’ will be heard over the air from 5CL, Adelaide, on December 21 and 22, and from South Australia they will go to Melbourne, where they will broadcast from 3LO- between January 6 and 27. It is possible that the band will also visit Sydney.

Ron Moyle himself is wellknown to listeners in Western Australia, having been connected with broadcasting in this State for many years. His band, which is composed of the following players, was heard from 6WF during last dancing season: — Ron Moyle, A.C.T.L. (pianist); Bob Gibson, L.A.B. (alto saxophone, clarinet and violin) ; George Caro, A.T.C.L. (tenor saxophone, clarinet and violin); Allan Gough, A.T.C.L. (alto saxophone, clarinet and violin); Viv. Nylander (trumpet and trombone); Kem Fimmel (trumpet); Charles Thompson (trombone and’ trumpet); Wally Hadley (banjo, flute and guitar); Cliff Adams (guitar, tap dancer and vocalist); Eddy Roberts (drums and vocalist); and Tom Bennett (bass). The band will give a final concert at the Ambassadors Theatre on Friday night.

West Australian (Perth, WA), Wednesday 13 December 1933, page 5

1934

CLIFF ADAM DOING WELL – Perth Boy’s Success

Cliff Adam, a Perth boy, is doing exceptionally well in Melbourne just now. Cliff will be remembered for his supers dancing turns at the Luxor and elsewhere. Some time ago he went East, but was compelled to break his engagement and return West owing to illness. He is now at his top again in Melbourne, and is one of the most popular performers at the New Embassy in that city, where his items on the guitar and his clever dance numbers ARE A FEATURE of the programme. Cliff, who is a son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Adam, of Beaufort street. Perth, is the cleverest stepper of his type that this State has yet produced, and ‘The Mirror’ predicts a big future for him. His many W.A. friends will be delighted to hear of this unassuming young Perth lad’s progress.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 14 April 1934, page 7

1951 ABC Studio 7 Cliff Adams, Bill Hendry, Muriel Costigan, Dave Howard, Sylvia Caporn, Harry Bluck, Ralph Filmer

1953

PERTH MUSICIANS PLAN BIG WELCOME FOR RAY HARTLEY

ON HIT PARADE

Local-boy-made-good Ray Hartley will step off the Strathnaver onto the proverbial red carpet rolled out by WA musicians when he arrives in Fremantle Tuesday week. Busy drawing up plans and specifications for a monster concert featuring local artists at the Capitol is band leader Sammy Sharp. Many other suggestions about ways and means to honor the writer pianist must be shelved until Ray has been consulted, but certain it is that Ray’s rapid rise in the entertainment world will be appropriately recognised. Present vague information about his ‘working holiday’ stay in Perth will not allow the mapping of any schedule. In fact, it’s thought that the concert at the Capitol will have to wait til a week or so after his arrival because of theatre bookings. How polished pianist Ray broke through the formidable barrier to success with his catchy ‘Let’s Do It Again’ soon after his arrival in London is well known. For some weeks the local radio hammered Donald Peers’ rendition of the number, and it was the same in England and America, where the tune topped the hit parade. Ray’s is truly a ‘rags-to-riches’ story— from a laundry hand to a celebrity in a few years, which seem incredibly short. He put his RAAF discharge in his pocket and went to work in a Perth laundry. Seven years ago he was 6 PM’s station pianist and supplemented his income with odd engagements at the ABC and a dancing school. He made steady local progress and moved across to Sydney in early 1948. There his services were in demand on radio and stage, and in his spare time he collected his A.Mus.A. at Sydney Conservatorium. This was the signal for his departure for London, where he quickly got his feet on the ladder of success. It’s almost 4 years now since Ray landed in London full of hopes and ambition, and since then he’s had at least 16 tunes published, including 2 best sellers. BBC and Radio Luxembourg have sought out his services, and he has made the screen with M-G-M and Pathe. Definite it is that Ray will be heard in 4 broadcasts from the ABC while in his home town. A week after his arrival he will appear in ‘What Next?’ ?

This well – known Perth band is heard weekly in Hit Parade all over Australia and by the troops in Korea. It is the noted combination of Harry Bluck and the conductor-arranger himself is shown at the far left, front row, Next to him in front, from left: Sylvia Caporn, Johnny McCaughan, Mario Burlini, George Franklin, Cliff Adam. Back row: Ralph Filmer, George Caro. Jack Pateman, Ted Mc-Mahon. Arch Waddell.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 18 July 1953, page 12

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 24 October 1953, page 12

1955

Cliff Adam Band one of best on WA radio

Heard and enjoyed often on local stations are popular members of the Cliff Adam Band (below from left to right) Jack Pope, Harry Wicks, Cliff Adam, and John McCaughan. Leader Cliff Adam -something special with a guitar, a song, and formerly a tap dance – is among the most experienced of WA musicians.

He left Perth to tour the Eastern States with. Ron Moyle’s “Westralian” in 1933 and, finding things over that way to his liking, stayed for several successful years.

He played in famous Melbourne cabarets and toured with the Bert Howell band, one of Australia’s best in Sydney. He played with the tuneful Jay Whidden unit and had success on the air with the Colgate – Palmolive, Fred Hartley and other well-known radio bands. Now he broadcasts with his Hawaiian ensemble,, the 55-60 Show with the ABC Variety Band and. of course, his own Cliff Adam show.

Drummer and vibraphone player Harry Wicks moved here from Sydney two years back with the smash-hit Moreton and Kaye show He liked the place, decided to stay, and is heard in many local commercial shows. Harry hails originally from New Zealand but he has the Australian “bounce” in abundance.

Trumpeter Jack Pope, a member of Harry Bluck’s ABC Melodians, is heard

also on commercial stations. So does tenor-sax maestro John McCaughan, a momentous Melodian with the ABC. The quartet play together several times weekly in Cliff’s dance band. Other members of the band, pictured, are Russ Shepgeard pianist, and Ralph Filmer, bass.

Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 – 1955), Sunday 9 January 1955, page 20

Instruments

Years

1951