Stephanie St Clair James was born in 1913 in Northam to Cuthbert Roper and Elsie James.
1935
Finalists In Musical Festival Sections
Further preliminaries in the eleventh Western Australian Musical Festival were conducted at the Assembly Hail today. Those selected as finalists in the piano duet (under 13) were Stephanie James and Eileen Kidson, Shirley Burden and Carmel Burrows, Elsie Masarei and Joan Tempelman, Marcia Ellis and Joyce Foreman, L. Rosekelly and Alison Linden. Finalists in the violin solo (under 13) tests were Lionel Elliott, Gertrude Segal, Joy Hobley and Edward Smith.
Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Wednesday 2 October 1935, page 5
THE SILVER WATTLE CLUB.
The Silver Wattle Club of Midland Junction held its final meeting for the year on Thursday, November 28, when many visitors were present to enjoy the fine programme and afternoon tea provided. Many gifts from members and friends were sold in aid of the funds for Y.W.C.A. work in the district. The programme was contributed to by: … Mrs. James, recitation, Miss Stephanie James, piano solo.
Swan Express (Midland Junction, WA : 1900 – 1954), Thursday 12 December 1935, page 6
1936
Last Stages Of Music Festival
The West Australian Musical Festival, conducted by the West Australian Music Teachers’ Association, entered its final stages today. It will conclude with the competition for ladies’ choirs tonight. Today the piano sight reading, under 13 under 15 and open were decided. Only-one prize was awarded in the open piano sight reading:
Piano sight reading : (under 13): Stephanie James, 1; Gertrude Burney,
Piano sight reading (under 15)’: Barbara Corpe, 1; Stephanie James,
Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Saturday 7 November 1936, page 15
MUSICAL FESTIVAL. Striking Piano Performances.
Brilliant pianoforte displays by competitors in the prize-winning section and in other classes were features yesterday of the 12th annual musical festival promoted by the West Australian Music Teachers’ Association, and the adjudicator (Mr. Thorold Waters) found his task a hard one. The festival, which opened on Monday, will continue until Monday evening next. Last night there was a large and appreciative audience. “This has indeed been a stimulating performance, and one which revealed outstanding merit,” said Mr. Waters, at the conclusion of the main feature of the evening-the prize-winners’ section, in which four competitors (all first prize winners at previous festivals) appeared. Each was required to play a Bach excerpt, a sonata movement and a modern piece. In naming Miss Mavis Dick the winner, the adjudicator said that her playing was remarkable for its certainty. He could not detect a note badly defined. Miss Dick chose Bach’s Fugue in G Major, No. 15, First Movement of the Sonata Op. 90 (Beethoven) and “Reflets dans l’eau” (Debussy). She won the event with 90 points, Misses Owenle Lynch (88 points) and Lorna Ford (87 points) being second and third respectively. The evening’s programme opened with the final of the pianoforte solo for competitors over 12 and under 14 years. In this John Hobley, with 83 points, was first, Eleanor Williams (82 points) was second and Stephanie James (81 points) was third. Marjorie Harper and Louis Pryor received honourable mention. In his comments, Mr. Waters said that the piece, “Will o’ the Wisp” (Sweating) had given competitors a severe test and, taken generally, they had done very well. In the under 10 violin solo event, Joy Hobley, with 84 points, was successful with Lionel Elliott (83) points second. There were four sets of finalists in the under 15 pianoforte duet section, who were required to play Colin Taylor’s “Sally Waters.” At the conclusion, the adjudicator confessed that he was hard put to it to separate the competitors. All had rendered very bright performances. Stephanie James and Evelyn Osborne were named the winners with £1 points and Barbara Corpe and Verna Smith were second with 80 points. Marie Quinliven and Joy Salter received honourable mention from the adjudicator. “This song is one which makes big demands on the feelings of the singer. It is a reflective sort of an affair, almost a soliloquy and its Eastern idiom makes it hard to convey. Yet the poetry is beautifully simple; the music, however, is not so simple. The four singers have done well with this song.” Mr. Waters was referring to Granville Bantock’s “Yung Yang,” which was the piece set for the mezzo-soprano solo event. With” 85 points, Mrs. 0. Cox was first, Miss L. Turner (84 points) was second and Miss N. Mcserracher (83 points) was third. Miss G. Tearle received honourable mention. Mr. Mr. N. Grange won the baritone solo event with a good rendering of “Ethiopia Saluting the Colours” (Chas. Wood), which, Mr. Waters commented, was a “very difficult song to interpret.” Mr. W. Frankish was second, with three points less than the winner. Although the hour was growing late, considerable interest was taken in the folk song contest, in which there were three competitors. Mr. Waters complimented all the singers on their renderings and awarded the first prize to Miss Myril Frape, who sang “Look Into My Eye, Come Near,” and another folk song. Mr. B. Gamble was awarded second position. The Darlington Double Quartet was the only entrant in the concerted item section and, after listening to the singers’ rendering of “The Stable Door” (Armstrong Gibbs), the adjudicator recommended to the committee that a special prize be given. Mesdames E. Stokes and J. J. Curlewis and Messrs. J. Tomlinson and A. Bumstead won the mixed quartet event. They sang Pinsuti’s “The Sea Bath its Pearls.” Tonight the first choral contest will take place, for the West Australian Newspapers’ prize and the Hugo Fischer Cup. Contralto and tenor soloists will be heard in finals and there will also be the final of the duet for two pianos.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Thursday 5 November 1936, page 9
1937
TRINITY COLLEGE OF MUSIC. West Australian Exhibitioners. SYDNEY, May 26.–In connection with the award of local exhibitions for Australia by Trinity College of Music, London, the general secretary for Australia (Mr. G. de Cairos Rego) has received the following list of West Australian exhibitioners:–Perth: Stephanie James (senior practical), Boma J. Williams (senior practical), Joy Hobley (intermediate practical), James Purvey (intermediate practical), Lindsay Walker (junior practical), Connie Guilfoyle (Intermediate theory), Norma J. Goodes (advanced junior theory), Mary L. Flanagan (advanced junior theory). Coolgardie: Frances J. Moran (advanced junior theory). York: Margaret L. Betts (intermediate theory). These exhibitions provide tuition in musical subjects or elocution for 12 months.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Thursday 27 May 1937, page 20
TRINITY COLLEGE OF MUSIC. West Australian Exhibitioners. SYDNEY, May 26.-In connection with the award of local exhibitions for Australia by Trinity College of Music, London, the general secretary for Australia (Mr. G. de Cairos Bego) has received the following list of West Australian exhibitioners:-Perth: Stephanie James (senior practical), Roma J. Williams (senior practical), Joy Hobley (intermediate practical), James Purvey (intermediate practical), Lindsay Walker (Junior practical), Connie Guilfoyle (intermediate theory), Norma J. Goodes (advanced junior theory). Mary I. Flanagan (advanced junior theory). Coolgardie: Frances J. Moran (advanced junior theory). York: Margaret L. Betts (intermediate theory). These exhibitions provide tuition in musical subjects or elocution for 12 months.
Western Mail (Perth, WA : 1885 – 1954), Thursday 3 June 1937, page 26
1939
MUSICAL FESTIVAL. Keen Choral Competition.
At last night’s session of the 14th West Australian Musical Festival, promoted by the W.A. Music Teachers’ Association, girls’ choirs and choirs from primary schools delighted a large audience in the Perth Town Hall. Public appreciation was shared by the festival adjudicator (Mr. Harold S. Elvins), who, at the close of the evening, said that he wished to congratulate Perth on having such a number of beautifully fresh young voices. The Victoria Square choir, which won ‘The Western Mail” shield for girls’ choirs, received high commendation from the adjudicator. “Their rendering was very delightfully clear in tone,” he said, “and the speed was nice and well sustained . . . it was a delightful performance. In ‘the Echo Song’ one could almost believe that the echo was outside the hall. The performance was technically faultless. The The songs which girls’ choirs were required to sing were Purcell’s “Nymphs and Shepherds” and “The Echo Song,” by Rowley. Eight school choirs competed, and such was the high standard that only ten marks separated the winning choir from the last on the list. The Victoria Square choir won with 92 marks and the Perth Girls’ School choir and Sacred Heart High School choir, with 88 and 87 marks respectively, were second and third. Six primary schools competed for the Levinson Centenary Shield for choirs of children under 13 years of age. This section was won by St. Joseph’s School with a performance which was. described by the adjudicator is “very delightful” The Kellerberrin State School choir and the East Victoria Park State School choir obtained the second and third places. During yesterday morning and afternoon several other sections. were decided. The’ pianoforte solo for children between 13 and 16 years of age provided an interesting contest. It was won by Mannix Gosper with 91 marks, with Stephanie James (90 marks) and Shirley Bowes Thompson (88 marks) closely following. The adjudicator said that the winner’s work was very good indeed and showed imagination and a sensitive touch. The festival will be continued today in the Assembly Hall. An important item of tonight’s programme will be the ladies’ solo championship, in which there are five finalists.
Other results of yesterday’s contests were as follows: Violin solo (under 14).-Helen Hookway (86 marks). Duet for two pianos-Stephanie James and Lois Harry (86 marks), 1; Terry Jeffers and Arthur Huck (84 marks), 2. Piano solo (over 13′ and under 16).Mannix Gosper (91 marks), 1; Stephanie James (90 marks), 2; Shirley Bowes Thompson (88. marks). 3. Piano quick study contest (under 15) Stephanie James (91 marks). Piano solo (over 15 and under 18). John Hobley (88 marks); 1: Nancy Hemmant (87 marks), 2; Owenyth Evans (85 marks). 3.. Piano solo (over 9 and under 12. final).Joy Edgar (91 marks). 1:. Margaret Carney (90 marks), 2; Walter Bourke (89 marks). 3. Piano solo (over 11 and under 13. final) Allison Linden (87 marks). 1: Walter Bourke (86 marks), 2; Mary Bernet and Valma Hoult (85 marks each). 3. Piano solo (over 12 and under 14. final) Barbara Webster (90 marks), I; Mina Kooperman (89 marks). 2; Ted Bailey (88 marks), 3. Duet for two pianos (under 18):–Morna Graggs and Mannix Gosper
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 1 July 1939, page 15
1940
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP. University Award for Pianist.
Each alternate year since 1922 the University of Western Australia has offered a music scholarship -valued at £180 (£60 a year for three years) to an outstanding candidate in the diploma and higher grade music examinations. This year the examiners-Mr. Harold S. Elvins, of the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, and Mr. Frank Hutchens, of the State Conservatorium of Music, Sydney have recommended that the scholarship be awarded to Miss Stephanie St. Clair James, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. R. James, of Guildford. Miss James is only 16 years of age. She was born at Northam, but has spent most of her life at Guildford, where, until the end of last year, she was a music pupil of Miss Doris H Pearcy. During the present year she continued her pianoforte studies under Mr. Marshall Sumner. Miss James has had a series of brilliant successes in her pianoforte work. She passed each of the six grades of the University examinations with honours, obtained two exhibitions, and gained the A.Mus.A. diploma at the age of 12. In Trinity College examinations she obtained honours in the senior and higher local divisions, an exhibition and three medals, and lst year, at the age of 15, she gained her L.R.S.M. diploma from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. She has also been consistently successful in the annual music festivals. Success has attended Miss James’s efforts in other spheres than music. She is an outstanding pupil of Perth College, Mt. Lawley. In 1938 she passed the junior certificate examination in ten subjects, and has distinguished herself particularly in languages. She has her swimming and running colours, having competed successfully for her school in Interschool sports. Next month Miss James will sit for the leaving certificate examination, and. having then completed her general schooling will proceed to a conservatorium of music to continue her music studies.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Wednesday 23 October 1940, page 6
1941
Miss Stephanie James will leave by the Westland express on Saturday to continue her musical studies in Melbourne.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Tuesday 28 January 1941, page 10
Woman’s Realm —ROUNDABOUT. People and Events. By “Halsted.”
THERE was a bevy of young people mostly pupils or ex-pupils of Perth College on the central railway station on Saturday afternoon to wave good-bye to Stephanie James, the gifted young West Australian pianist, who was leaving for Melbourne to take up a four years’ scholarship at the Melbourne University Conservatorium. She was accompanied by her mother, Mrs. Cuthbert James. Arrangements have been made by Miss James’s former teacher (Mr. Marshall Sumner) for her to study with Miss Reike Parker, who was a personal pupil of Schnabel, the German virtuoso, on each of her two trips to Europe. Miss Parker is a sister of Miss Katherine Parker (Mrs. Hubert Eisdell), who is a well-known pianist and composer in London. It is interesting to learn that on her arrival in Melbourne Miss James will use a piano lent to her by another gifted young West Australian, Miss June Epstein, who is returning to this State to take up an appointment at Kobeelya Girls’ School, Katanning. If the necessary arrangements can be made, Miss James hopes to study the oboe as her second instrument.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Tuesday 4 February 1941, page 5
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP. Won by West Australian Student.
The chairman of the University Music Board (Professor A. D. Ross) has received advice that Miss Stephanie St. Clair James has been awarded the Royal Schools of Music (London) scholarship open to candidates throughout Australia entering for examinations of the Australian Music Examinations Board. The scholarship is tenable for two years and is of the value of £50 per annum. The scholar is required to continue the study of music either at an approved conservatorium of music in Australia or at one of the Royal Schools in London. Last October Miss James gained the £150 music scholarship awarded biennially by the University of Western Australia. Born at Northam in 1924, she has spent most of her life in Guildford, where she was a music pupil of Miss Doris H. Pearcy, but during 1940 she continued her pianoforte studies under Mr. Marshall Sumner. She attended Perth College and passed the junior in 1938 and the leaving certificate last November. Early this year she went to Melbourne and enrolled in the University Conservatorium of Music for the three-year diploma course. She won a further exhibition at the entrance test. Commenting on the award of the scholarship, Professor Ross said yesterday that Miss James was an outstanding student. Her pianoforte playing had last year called forth strong recommendation from the University’s music examiners–Mr. H. S. Elvins, of Melbourne, and Mr. Frank Hutchens, of Sydney who had been impressed by a certain maturity and balance in her playing which was unusual in so young a candidate. “It is good to know,” said Professor Ross, “that Miss James is an allround scholar. To her marked ability in music she adds high attainments in languages, and she has also distinguished herself in sport. Professor Ross added that when the scholarship was first instituted in 1937 the award then was to Miss Owenie Lynch, of Western Australia, who had since gained the Diploma in Music of the University of Melbourne and was now practising as a teacher of music in Kalgoorlie. That West Australian candidates had gained two out of five awards was testimony to the excellence of music work in this State.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Wednesday 7 May 1941, page 4
1943
6WN HIGHLIGHTS
For Week Ending January 23 • A programme “From the Classics” will be given at 3 pm on Sunday. At 8.45 pm (Stephanie James will present a programme.
Swan Express (Midland Junction, WA : 1900 – 1954), Thursday 14 January 1943, page 3
1947
Finalists (By “Tenori”).
Australian Broadcasting Commission’s Concerto and Vocal Competition.
Finalists: Miss Betty North. Miss Nancy Barnden, Miss Betty Wright, Miss Norecn Edwards, and Miss Stephanie James.
Tuesday, April 23, in the Capitol Theatre, the Australian Broadcasting Commission conducted a Concerto and Vocal Concert at which were heard the above dualists in the recent competitions.
The Perth Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Mr. Ernest J. Roberts, opened with an overture, “The Marriage of Figaro,” by Mozart. Miss Betty North played “Konzertstuck in F Minor for Piano and Orchestra,” by Weber. This item was followed by Recit. and Aria, ” Dove Sono,” from ” The Marriage of Figaro,” by Mozart, rendered by soprano Miss Nancy Barnden.
Miss Betty Wright then played the first movement of ” Concerto in A Minor, Op., 16, for Piano and Orchestra.” by Grieg, which completed the first half of the programme. After the Interval, Miss Noreen Edwards played a Concerto No. 1 in G Minor for Violin and Orchestra, first and second movements by Max Bruch. This artist, although quite young and immature, so far as orchestral associations are concerned, displayed a solidity and sympathy which makes her future musical career assured.
Miss Ray Williams, soprano, then sang “Il Est Deux, Il Est Bon” (from “Herodiade”), and the programme was brought to a close with an item from Miss Stephanie James, Symphonic Variations for Piano and Orchestra” by Franck. Of all the contestants this young lady was outstanding. She has the brilliance and poise of the accomplished artist and a promising musical future is. undoubtedly in store for her.
Music lovers throughout the Stale are appreciative of the Concerto and Vocal programmes provided by the A.B.C., which are a boon to country listeners and which provide aspiring young artists with the opportunity of displaying their talent before a public audience.
Westralian Worker (Perth, WA : 1900 – 1951), Friday 2 May 1947, page 2
A NEW CHOIR Successful Debut Of W.A. Choral Society (By Tactus.”)
The appearance of a new choral organisation in our midst should always be welcomed as another noteworthy stride forward in musical development. Still greater significance may be attached to a debut which brings with it work containing charm and artistry in good measure, as did that of the Western Australian Choral Society, conducted by Arthur Buss at its inaugural concert in the Perth Town Hall last night. The audience was large and appreciative. The choir, with a strength of nearly 70 voices, includes an unusual proportion of young members, and although there was the usual preponderance of the gentler sex and a tenor line of only seven, good balance was maintained. In the points that matter most–intonation, quality, precision, tone-shading and especially soft singing-meritorious results were secured. Good judgment was shown in the avoidance of compositions of magnitude, whilst still maintaining a good musical standard, and it should be added that when lusty climaxes were called for they were secured without force. Arrangements of airs and songs such as “Brother James” (Jacob). “Going Home” (from Dvorak’s “New World” Symphony), “Eriskay Love Lilt” (Kennedy-Fraser), “The Wandering Miller” (from Schubert’s “Die Schone Mullerin” Cycle) and Arne’s “Where the Bee Sucks” abounded in good harmony and were effectively sung. “Blessed Jesu, Fount of Mercy,” a composition in motet style, by Dvorak, Bach’s beautiful chorale, “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” (complete with the oboe obligato, played by Stephanie James). “My Love Dwelt in a Northern Land” (Elgar), “Ave Verum” (Mozart) and “Invocation” (Schumann) were also included in the choir’s presentations. Interludes provided by the associate artists added considerably to the attractiveness of the programme. Songs by Scott, Rachmaninov. Puccini, and Mozart were sung by Irene Stancliffe, instrumental trios by Beethoven and Bridge were played by Noreen Edwards, Wendy Tyler and Joy Edgar, and pianoforte works by Liszt were contributed by Stephanie James. All the accompaniments were efficiently played by Gwyn Brockway.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Thursday 13 November 1947, page 8
1948
RECITAL
Beethoven’s A major sonata for ‘cello and piano was played by Otti Veit, ‘cellist, and Stephanie James, pianist, at Winthrop Hall last night This, with a group of old English folk songs, sung by Alice Mallon, was featured in a recital arranged by the Adult Education Board.
Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 – 1955), Sunday 18 April 1948, page 10
1950
For over a week from Monday 23rd October 1950, clarinettist Jack Harrison toured to country centres under the auspices of the Adult Education Board and was accompanied on piano by and Stephanie James and vocalist Pamela Flower.
COUNTRY MUSIC TOUR
Three well-known local artists will leave on Monday on a tour of country towns under the auspices of the Adult Education Board. They are Miss Stephanie James, pianist, Miss Pamela Flower, soprano, and Mr. Jack Harrison, clarinettist. The assistant-director of Adult Education (Mr. John Birman) said yesterday that towns to be visited would include Harvey, Balingup, Donnybrook, Busselton, Boyup Brook, Kojonup, Katanning and Pingelly. This would be the last of a series of concerts in country districts presented by the board during this year. Afternoon, performances for children would be given, in conformity with the board’s policy to arrange concerts for schoolchildren whenever possible, Mr. Birman said.
The West Australian Saturday 21 October 1950 page 8
Tuesday October 24 1950 – Harvey – Outstanding Trio Of Artists
An outstanding trio of artists will present a concert at Harvey on Tuesday, October 24, under the auspices of the Adult Education Board. They are Miss Stephanie James, pianist, brilliant young West Australian, who has just returned home from overseas studies; Miss Pamela Flower, soprano, who is this year’s winner of the West Australian section of the Mobil Quest competition and who performed last year as soloist with the Perth Symphony Orchestra; and last, but not least, a very outstanding young man, Jack Harrison, who is well known throughout the State for his ability as a clarinet player. Mr. Harrison was this year’s State finalist in the A.B.C. vocal and concerto competition. There will be a school matinee in the afternoon.
Harvey-Murray Times Friday 29 September 1950 page 2
WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 1950 – BALINGUP
A letter from the Adult Education Board which was read at the fast meeting of the CWA at Balingup intimated that there “was an opportunity of providing Balingup with a concert on Wednesday, 25th October. Three excellent Western. Australian artists will be making the trip and will include Miss Pamela Flower, soprano, this year’s winner of the WA division of the mobile quest competition. Jack Harrison, clarinettist, the finalist of this year’s ABC Vocal and Concerto competition and Miss Stephanie James who has just returned home from extensive studies abroad. There will be one evening performance and one afternoon performance for the children.
Blackwood-Warren Sentinel Thursday 5 October 1950 page 6
Thursday October 26 1950 – DONNYBROOK
The Adult Education Board advised that their next visit to Donnybrook with a group of artists would be on Thursday, October 26. The visiting group would include Pamela Flower, soprano; Jack Harrison, clarionetist; with Stephanie James, pianist. The secretary reported that the hall had been booked and preliminary arrangements made.
South Western times Thursday 28 September 1950 page 2
DONNYBROOK EDUCATION BOARD RECITAL
Visit Of Talented West Australian Artists Under the direction of the Adult Education Board Donnybrook was given the opportunity last Thursday to hear three brilliant West Australian artists, Miss Stephanie James (pianist), Miss Pamela Flower (soprano) and Mr Jack Harrison (clarinettist). The programme presented was well chosen, this being evident by the warm reception it received from a fairly large audience. Most gratifying to the local committee was the enthusiastic comments made by those who were fortunate to be present. This augurs well for the future. Mr. Jack Harrison opened the programme with Weber’s Concertino Op. 26 His control of tone and well rounded phrasing at once gave evidence of his ability. Worthy of note was the tonal work in the sustained passages of the slow movements. Later he was heard in “Hymn to the Sun” (Rimsky-Korsakov) Arabesque, an adaptation from Debussy’s No. 2 Prelude and Anita’s Dance from the Peer Gynt Suite by Grieg. Concluding both halves of the programme the voice, clarinet j and piano were heard together in “The Thrush” (Harrhy), “Bird Songs at Eventide” (Coates), “By the Waters of Minnetonka” (Lieurance), “Pipes of Pan” (Monckton). This could have been improved if the clarinet obligato was arranged and not merely the subtraction of certain passages from the piano accompaniment. Mention must be made of Miss James as the accompanist. At all times she was able to catch the mood and tempo of the soloists which is no mean feat. Her ability is remarkable. At the conclusion of the concert members of the local committee of the Adult Education Board entertained the artists at supper. Both Mr. Newton, the Adult Education Board representative and Miss Stephanie James, the leader of the artists thanked the committee. Among the audience were noticed the chairman of the Preston Road Board, Mr. J. K. Kirkpatrick and Mrs. Kirkpatrick, Mr. and Mrs. Newman (Lowden), Mr. and Mrs. R. Skinner, Mr. and Mrs. Guy Brockman, Mr. and Mrs. Cyril Skinner (Lowden), Mr. R. Trevena and Miss Trevena, Mr. A. O. W. Knight, Mr. L. Miller, Mr. T. V. Finch, Mr. and Mrs. L. Mortlock, Mr. and Mrs. G. V. Mitchell, Mrs. A. C. Fenn.
The Preston Mail and District Advocate Thursday 2 November 1950 page 3
THURSDAY October 26 1950 – CONSUMMATE ARTISTRY – Young Westralians Please – DONNYBROOK
A greatly improved patronage was afforded the Adult Education Board’s recital on Thursday evening last when the programme was presented by three brilliant young West Australian artists. The interest now being displayed in what the A.E.B. designates Everyman’s Music is most heartening to the committee which has undertaken the local arrangements. In this respect a word of thanks is due to Mr. Frank Arbuthnott who prepared an ideal stage setting, with the requisite lighting, and to Mr. L. J. Mortlock who made a new Mignon piano, from his showroom, available for the occasion. The visiting party paid glowing tributes to the way they had been received in Donnybrook and of the arrangements
made for the concert presentation. The local Adult Education Committee entertained Misses James and Flower and Messrs. Harrison and Newton (manager) at supper at the conclusion of the entertainment. During the afternoon a short matinee performance was given to about two hundred and fifty children drawn from the Donnybrook schools and the young folk evinced keen appreciation in the fare presented, especially when the mouth organ was produced by Jack Harrison. A pleasing feature of the afternoon was the way the children joined in singing the National Anthem.
The evening opened with Jack Harrison performing the clarinet solo part of Concertino Op. 26 (Weber), Stephanie James explaining that the Concertino was originally written to be played with orchestra. The clarinet was heard to good advantage in slow sustained passages and fingering left little to be desired. The first half of the programme concluded with concerted numbers for voice, clarinet and piano. This was particularly pleasing work, the numbers being “The Thrush” (Edith Harrhy) and “Bird Songs at Eventide” (Eric Coates) , the voice and clarinet harmonising to good effect. Jack Harrison again opened after the interval, choosing “Hymn To The Sun” (Rimsky- Korsakov), “Arabesque” (Debussy) and “Anita’s Dance” (Grieg). Here again the tone was beautiful and brought the audience to its toes. The programme concluded with another concerted group by the voice, clarinet and piano. These numbers “By The Waters Of Minnetonka” (Thurlow Lieurance) and “Pipes Of Pan” (Monckton) lent themselves admirably to the co-ordination of voice and clarinet. For the whole programme sympathetic accompaniments were given by Stephanie James. Thanks To Adult Education Board At the conclusion of the programme Mr. A. C. Frost, provisional chairman of the Donnybrook Adult Education Board Committee, on behalf of the audience, thanked the A.E.B. and the artists for the excellent programme given. Speaking on behalf of the committee he thanked the audience for their splendid response and voiced thanks to Mr. Len Mortlock for the loan of the new piano for the concert. He also expressed the hope that it would be possible to bring other artists and bigger ventures to Donnybrook. One of the requisites for more ambitious programmes was a concert grand piano and the Proton Road Board had now set in motion a proposition to purchase such an instrument for the hall. Previous generations, he said, were long sighted enough to provide a big hall and a stage of requisite size and now support from the Donnybrook people could make the completion of the whole project possible. Replying, Mr. Newton said that it was most heartening to the artists to receive such a warm reception and to have such a satisfactory setting prepared for which to give the concert. He went on to congratulate the Donnybrook civic fathers on their foresight and wisdom in securing a beautiful instrument for their hall. He promised that the A.E.B. would do everything possible to send programmes that will measure to the standard that is being set, mentioning the new State Symphony Orchestra. Finally, Mr. Newton thanked the committee for the setting they had provided on the stage for this concert\ as it was very rarely that the stage is well set and he felt sure that Mr. Arnott’s attention to these details had brought out the very best from the artists. He concluded by saying that the children’s audience at that afternoon’s matinee had been a credit to the parents of Donnybrook.
South Western Times (Bunbury) Thursday 2 November 1950 page 2
FRIDAY 27 October 1950 – BUSSELTON EVERYMAN’S MUSIC RECITAL – POPULAR VISITING ARTISTS
The programme presented in the Regal Theatre last Friday night by the artists, Stephanie James (pianiste), Pamela Flower (soprano) and Jack Harrison (clarinettist) proved to be one of the most popular and enjoyable Busselton has yet heard. The youth and charm of the performers appealed instantly to the audience, while the sincerity and quality of their work revealed them as musicians of high calibre. In turn, the warmth and appreciation of the audience inspired the artists, so that in such a pleasant, atmosphere, it was not surprising that the hours tied all too quickly. The programme opened with Weber’s Concertino, played by Jack Harrison, very ably accompanied by Stephanie James, who described. the piece beforehand as a small concerto. Jack Harrison’s artistry and tone were displayed again later in Rimsky Korsakov’s “Hymn to the Sun,” Debussy’s “Arabesque” and Grieg’s “‘Anitra’s Dance.” The three artists combined most effectively in two groups, one at the end of the first half of the programme and the other at the conclusion. So enjoyable was this combination, with the blending of the clarinet, voice and piano, that, the audience demanded an encore. On Friday afternoon, the children of the State School and Busselton Convent attended a short concert given by the visiting artists. Judging from the warmth of the applause the children enjoyed themselves thoroughly.
The South Western News (Busselton) Thursday 2 November 1950 page 5
Saturday October 28 1950 – Celebrity Concert At Boyup Brook
On October 28, under the auspices of the Boyup Brook Chamber of Commerce, the Adult Education Board included Boyup Brook in its itinerary and gave two hours of delightful instrumental and vocal recital. Those who were unable to attend are to be sympathised with for missing a musical treat which will long be remembered by those fortunate enough to be there. At conclusion the recital, two dainty posies of roses were handed to the lady artists by Mr. R. U Graham, the President of the Chamber of Commerce, after which Mr. B. Ryan, on behalf of the Chamber and residents of the district thanked the Director, Mr. B. Newton, the artists and the Adult Education Board for the recital. He expressed the appreciation of the real music loving section of the community and hoped the Education Board would always include Boyup Brook in its future itineraries. In responding, Mr. Newton said the Board would always include Boyup Brook in its itineraries. He emphasised how pleased he, and the artists were with the reception they had received, and made special comment on the decorations of the stage with flowers from local gardens, which he and the artists regarded as a special token of artistic appreciation. After the recital, he and the artists, accompanied by Members of the Chamber of Commerce and a few friends were entertained at “Blackwood” the home of Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Graham, to a delightful supper, at conclusion of which Mr. Newton thanked the host and hostess for their hospitality. At conclusion of supper, Mr. Harrison was persuaded to bring out his mouth organ, on which instrument he is one of Australia’s most outstanding artists, he gave two excellently rendered numbers which showed his ability with that instrument as well as with the clarinet. Noticeable features of the Director and the Artists were their sociability. They enjoyed themselves just as much as those present enjoyed their company. It was a happy conclusion to a pleasant evening and musical feast. On Sunday they, were taken on a tour round the district by Members of the Chamber of Commerce and by invitation were the guests to afternoon tea at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Ritson. They were accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Graham as host and hostess and Mr. and Mrs. A.T, Smith-Ryan. On the Monday they gave a morning concert to scholars from the Boyup Brook, Chowerup and Greenbushes schools in the Boyup Brook Town Hall. Over three hundred scholars were there.
Blackwood – Warren Sentinel (Bridgetown) Thursday 9 November 1950 page 1
ARTISTS ENTERTAINED – Saturday October 28 1950
The president of the Chamber of Commerce (Mr. R. L. Graham) and Mrs. Graham invited members of the Chamber of Commerce and their wives to a supper party at their home on Saturday evening last in honour of concert artists Miss Stephanie James, Miss Pamela Flower and Mr. Jack Harrison and Mr. Newton, of the Adult Education Board. An enjoyable supper was served, after which Mr. Jack Harrison favoured the guests with several mouth organ solos, accompanied by Miss James at the piano. On behalf of the artists, Mr. Newton thanked Mr. and Mrs. Graham for their informality and help in making the party such a success. Among those present were: The secretary (Mr. W. Bainbridge) and Mrs. Bainbridge, Mr. and Mrs. E. L. Cummins, Mr. and Mrs. F. Proctor, Mr. and Mrs. A. Smith-Ryan, Mr. and Mrs. V. Randell, Mr. B. 0. Ryan, Miss J. Graham and Mr. E. Godfrey, Mr. P. Scammel and Mr. and Mrs. W. Drown. On Sunday Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Graham and Mr. and Mrs. A. Smith-Ryan took Miss James, Miss Flower and Mr. Harrison touring around the district and later, by invitation, they visited the farm of Mr. and Mrs. F. Ritson and had afternoon tea.
The Blackwood Times (Greensbushes) Friday 3 November 1950 page 8
Monday 30 October 1950 at 8.15pm – KOJONUP MEMORIAL HALL
TUESDAY, 31st OCTOBER, 1950 at 8.15 p.m. in the – KATANNING TOWN HALL
MAKE SURE AND BOOK YOUR SEATS FOR THE CONCERT Featuring three Brilliant young West Australian Artists. STEPHANIE JAMES (Pianist) (First Public appearance after return from abroad), PAMELA FLOWER (Soprano) ,(West Australian Finalist Mobil Quest Competition), JACK HARRISON (Clarinettist) (West Australian Finalist A.B.C. Concerto Competition).
Box plan at Blythe’s Newsagency; Box plan at Barkley & Gilbert’s. Prices: 4/- (No Tax); Children, 1/6 anywhere Direction : Adult Education Board.
The Great Southern Herald (Katanning) Friday 20 October 1950 page 4
CONCERT ARTISTS AT KATANNING – PROGRAMME TO BE PRESENTED ON TUESDAY OCTOBER 31
The Adult Education Board has advised that three concert artists will be presenting a programme at the Katanning Town Hall on Tuesday, October 3. The artists are all well-known in musical circles and their visit to Katanning will be welcomed. The third artist is also a West Australian, who has advanced very well in the musical world. He is Jackie Harrison who, since a very small lad, has been broadcasting over all stations. Mr. Harrison plays several instruments but is visiting Katanning as a clarinettist on this occasion. He is now only 20, but is the proud leader of his own dance band in Perth. He is perhaps better known among the younger people for his success in the jazz band contests in Perth each year. His twin sister plays the piano and his family in general are very musical.
The Great Southern Herald (Katanning) Friday 6 October 1950 page 2
KATANNING ADULT EDUCATION CONCERT – DELIGHTFUL PROGRAMME PRESENTED AT KATANNING
Sponsored by the Adult Education Board, three concert artists presented a delightful programme of great appeal at the Katanning Town Hall on Tuesday. Miss Stephanie James, who is well known in Katanning and who recently returned from further studying abroad, is regarded as one of the most promising pianists in Western Australia. Complementary with the other artists, Miss James showed her skill as a component artist and, as a soloist, played with great sensitivity and understanding Miss Pamela Flower’s chief quality was the delicate and restrained manner in which she handled the work she had chosen. Her stage presence was remarkable for one so young. Jack Harrison has had a meteoric rise to fame as a clarinet virtuoso and gave an unusual selection which was greatly appreciated. The choice of programme was ideally suited for the audience to which it was presented and evidence of its appeal was obvious through out. PIANO NEEDED IN KATANNING At the conclusion of the “presentation, Mr. B. Newton of the Adult Education Board, expressed the appreciation of the artists for the reception they had received at Katanning. He thanked particularly Miss Rae Ricket, and those who had assisted her, for making the local arrangements for the concert and for stage decorations. In thanking Miss Russell, headmistress of “Kobeelya,” for the loan of a piano, Mr. Newton considered it possible that presentations of Adult Education concerts at Katanning might increase in the future, in which case a good piano would he required at the Town Hall. He stated that a small local authority, not very far from Katanning, had recently purchased for its town hall a £900 instrument.
The Great Southern Herald (Katanning) Friday 3 November 1950 page 2
PINGELLY WEDNESDAY NOV 1 and NOV 2 1950
Miss Pamela Flower (soprano), this year’s W.A. finalist in the Mobil Quest competition; Jack Harrison, Clarinettist (finalist in the A.B.C. vocal and concerto competition), Miss Stephanie James, pianist (just returned from studies aboard), are to visit Pingelly under the auspices of the Adult Education Board). The Pingelly Committee finalised arrangements early this week for the visit of these outstanding artists, who are to combine in a Music-Song Recital in the Pingelly Town Hall on Wednesday evening, November 1, and a special programme for district school children, on Thursday morning, November 2. Residents of Pingelly, Brookton and surrounding districts will learn with pleasure of this visit by such well-known and highly rated artists and -at the same time will accord a measure of appreciation to those residents responsible for the arrangements. The box plan will open shortly at the Pingelly Newsagency and further details will be given later.
Pingelly Brookton Leader Thursday 5 October 1950 page 2
Pingelly Adult Education Board – Visit of Outstanding Artists. – Wednesday 1st NOVEMBER
It must have been a disappointment to those residents responsible for the visit to this centre on Wednesday evening of last week three such brilliant artists as Miss Stephanie James (pianist), Miss Pamela) Flower (soprano), and Mr. Jack Harrison (clarionetist), that the Everyman’s Music Recital in which these three artists took part should have been accorded such relatively poor patronage. The Adult Education Board, under the auspices of which the recital was made possible, is commended for its efforts in bringing top ranking artists to rural centres and when a town of the size of Pingelly is privileged to participate in these tours, it is regrettable that the audience is not as large as it should be. Those who attended Wednesday evening’s concert were indeed fortunate, for the performance of the artists was really excellent and thoroughly enjoyed by all present. Mr. Jack Harrison fully retained, if not enhanced, his reputation with delightful renditions on his clarionet.
Pingelly – Brookton Leader Thursday 9 November 1950 page 2
ADULT EDUCATION CONCERT ENJOYED – Wednesday 1st NOVEMBER
Although the attendance at the Everyman’s Music Recital on Wednesday night last, was perhaps, a little disappointing, those who went along thoroughly enjoyed the program submitted by the three Adult Education Board artistes. Fortunately, there were sufficient patrons present to warrant a return at a later date of a similar program, which according to the manager, Mr. E. Newton, would be available in the near future. Many people attended, thinking that all the, music played would be of a classical level well above the heads of the ordinary layman. They were, however, very-agreeably surprised, to find that the majority of the program was well known and those songs which were not so well known were so well presented that they were usually as well enjoyed. Mr. Jack Harrison, who commenced the program with Concertino On. 26 by Weber literally thrilled his listeners with his uncanny technique and control of his clarinet. The rich mellow tone which he so effortlessly produced from this tube of wood and metal won him instant favour. Trios comprising piano, voice and clarinet obligato were exceptionally well presented and proved very popular.
Blackwood – Warren Sentinel Thursday 2 November 1950 page 6
The tour ended after schools’ performances the morning of Thursday 2nd November in Pingelly, a two hour drive from Perth.
1951
The second annual general meeting of the Upper Blackwood Chamber of Commerce was recently held in the Boyup Brook Hall and was well attended. “Two most successful cultural efforts were initiated by the Chamber with the ready co-operation of the Adult Education Board. The first was in the form of a concert by the Greek tenor, Mr. G. Saligaros and Louise D’Arcy, and the second by the trio, Miss Pamela Flower, Miss Stephanie James and Mr. Jack Harrison.
Blackwood-Warren Sentinel Thursday 5 April 1951 page 4
The first broadcast of “Jack Harrison and His Music” was on September 1951 on 6WN.
1951 – JACK HARRISON’S SEXTET OPENS ON 6WN
On September 2 Jack Harrison’s Sextet opens on 6WN. The programme will probably consist of light classics, arranged modern ballads, and bright numbers of the samba, tarantella and bolero type.
Last year Jack studied under the Sydney musician Clive Amadio and it is quite likely that Jack’s sessions will resemble the well-known Amadio Quintet.
Jack reports that the members are James Drummond (violinist), Stephanie James (pianist) who recently returned from Europe, Kenneth Murdoch (saxophonist) John Mowson (bass) and his father, William Harrison (organ and vibes). Jack will play first clarinet and second saxophone. He will have a guest singer for each session. Kath Bass, Phyllis Blott and Elise Longwill would probably be the first three he says. Each number will be arranged for the sextet. Jack and his father are doing some of this work. Some work by an Eastern States arranger is available provided it is copied. Sister Jill is doing this in her spare time in Adelaide.
The Broadcaster Saturday August 18 1951 Vol. 18 No. 907.
* THESE STARS TONIGHT *
Friday 7 December 1951
Elizabeth Munro-George, Flora Nowotny, Jack Harrison,
Len Hancock, Stephanie James, Linda Marsh,
JULIANA FLESFADAR (Coloratura Soprano)
PAPADAPAFF (Noted Violinist)
ANATOL PAVLOV and His Balalaika
Edgar Park, Dorothy Holl, Kate Judd School of Modern Ballet, at
GRAND CHARITY CONCERT
ASSEMBLY HALL, Pier Street.
Proceeds to “Daily News” Orphans’ Xmas Appeal Fund.
The West Australian Friday 7 December 1951 page 29
NSW Singer For Concert
WELL-KNOWN Sydney coloratura soprano Julia Flesfada, who arrived in Perth this week, will sing at the Assembly Hall, Pier-st., tonight. She will appear in a Legionnaires concert with pianist Elizabeth Munro-George, clarinettist Jack Harrison, violinist Papadaff, Stephanie James, Edgar Nottage; Len Hancock, and others. Proceeds from the show will be donated to the Daily News Orphans’ Christmas Cheer Fund.
The Daily News Friday 7 December 1951 page 3
1952
DONNYBROOK MUSICAL RECITAL
SATURDAY APRIL 26 1952
In the musical world of Perth the name of Vaughan Hanly is outstanding. He is one of the city’s most gifted violinists and is well known as a leader of the State Symphony Orchestra. Lorna McLean’ is a brilliant soprano who has appeared on the radio and concert platform with conspicuous success. Stephanie James will be remembered in association with Pamela Flower and Jack Harrison on a previous visit to Donnybrook when her work at the piano was a feature of the programme on that occasion. These three artists, Vaughn Hanly, Lorna McLean and Stephanie James, will be heard at a recital in the Donnybrook Memorial Hall on Saturday, April 26, when James on this occasion will have the added advantage of playing on the Bechstein grand. The recital is being sponsored by the Donnybrook Adult Education Committee at considerable cost and music-lovers in the South-West should not miss this opportunity of hearing these talented artists, (Box plans are now open at McDaniel’s newsagency).
South Western Times Thursday 17 April 1952 page 3
W.A. Symphony Orchestra – KALGOORLIE CONCERT ON OCTOBER 14 1952
Appearances as soloist with the State Orchestra, many studio recitals and tours for the Adult Education Board have made the pianist, Stephanie James , a well known figure in West Australian music circles. Just recently featured with the orchestra at one of the A.B.C.’s 1952 series of concerts for youth, Miss James will be making her first Kalgoorlie appearance as a soloist when she plays at the concert to be given in the Kalgoorlie Town Hall on October 14. Music has brought travel to Stephanie James, for her studies have taken her to many places far from home. At the age of 16 she won two scholarships to the Melbourne Conservatorium, where she gained her Mus.B. degree, and two years later she made a two-year visit to London, France and Switzerland, tour during which she studied at the Royal Academy of Music under well-known teacher, Harold Caxton. At Kalgoorlie she will present with the orchestra, a popular Grieg concerto.
Kalgoorlie Miner (WA : 1895 – 1954), Monday 29 September 1952, page 9
1953
Capitol Show Will Aid Quake Victims
Organisers of the Greek Earthquake Victims’ Relief Fund hope to pass £3,000 with proceeds from a concert in the Capitol Theatre tomorrow night. This week the committee sent £500 to Greece, bringing the total to more than £2,500. In addition, a consignment of clothing was sent for earthquake victim relief. Tomorrow night’s concert will be directed by Mr. Stephen Dornan. Artists will include Shirley Flesfader and Stephanie James, Peter Martin and the Moongana Singers. Two films, including a newsreel of earthquake damage, will be presented.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 26 September 1953, page 4
1954
Two Women Musicians Will Play For Queen
Looking forward to playing for the Queen are two of Perth’s women musicians, Miss Aino Neumann, a double bass player, and Miss Stephanie James, a pianist. They will be members of a small group who will provide music at the parliamentary dinner and at the women’s reception at the University. Both are members of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra. Born in Sydney, where she studied at the Conservatorium, Miss Neumann joined the orchestra when she came to Perth last year. She started piano lessons when she was, 11, but later decided to learn the double bass, an instrument she had always admired. Dwarfed by her instrument, Miss Neumann is one of the very few women double bass players in Australia. She comes from a musical family. Her mother was a singer and ballet dancer, and her grandfather played the French horn and the organ. In private life Miss Neumann is the wife of Mr. Neil Pierson, a trombonist. Her only hobby beside music, is housekeeping at their City Beach home. As there is no harp in the orchestra, Miss James plays on the piano the parts scored for the harp. A West Australian, she studied at the Melbourne Conservatorium and in England before she joined the orchestra four years ago.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Thursday 18 March 1954, page 22
1955
FAIRY LIKE QUALITY – CELESTE FEATURED BY ORCHESTRA
Concert At Collie
Amongst the thousands of pounds worth of instruments travelling with the W.A. Concert Orchestra during its forthcoming tour will be the piano-like Celeste. This has been fairly recently acquired by the Commission and will be the first time it has been used in country performances. It is believed to be the only one in the State. The Celeste is, about one third the size of an ordinary upright piano. It has a keyboard, and when played, it gives the sound of tinkling bells. There is a fairy-like quality about it and effective use is made of this in the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” from ‘Nutcracker Suite.” When no harp is available to an orchestra, effective use can be made of the celeste by modifications to the parts written for harp. It has been frequently used in this way at Perth orchestral concerts. Playing the Celeste is Stephanie James, who has made many appearances with the Orchestra since she returned from a two-year study trip. to London, France and Switzerland. The concert in which the Celeste is to be featured will be given in the Miners’ Institute Hall on Monday, March 28. Bookings are at McGeachie’s Newsagency.
Collie Mail (WA : 1908 – 1966), Thursday 24 March 1955, page 4
1961
1961 RADIO BROADCAST
Light Music by Family
When Perth’s versatile instrumentalist Jack Harrison and his quintet play, it’s a family affair. In a series of six programmes of light music starting this Tuesday at 8pm from 6WN, Harrison will play the harmonica, saxophone and clarinet. He and his father have made special arrangements of Latin-American tunes slow ballads and novelty numbers for the programmes. Members of the quintet will be Harrison’s twin sister Jill (bassoonist and second pianist) her husband John Mowson (principal bass with the W.A. Symphony Orchestra), Laszlo Vidak (violin), Verdon Williams (percussion) and Stephanie James (principal piano).
BROADCASTS
The Eastern states have had the rare pleasure of hearing a good deal of Jack Harrison’s quintet from the A.B.C. stations. Jack produced six programmes of light music for 6WN with arrangements by himself and his father of Latin-American tunes, slow ballads and novelty numbers. Members of the quintet are: Jack, clarinet, saxophone and harmonica; his sister Jill on bassoonist and also as second pianist; her husband John Mowson, principal bass with the W.A. Symphony Orchestra; Laszlo Vidak, violin; Verdon Williams, percussion and Stephanie James, principal piano. The session is a pleasure to listen to.
The Australian Accordionist Vol. 8 No. 1 November 1961
1960 Stephanie married George William Coleman.
1966
MUSIC – By Peter Hellstrom – Festival Of Perth 1966
The Master of Queens Musick, Sir Arthur Bliss, has told the Festival Of Perth committee that the planning of the musical programs in the coming festival is a magnificent gesture to British music and should be more widely known. That it has become well known already in Britain is showing by letters from many leading authorities there they include congratulations from the executive of the Composers Guild of Great Britain. Though some prominent English music festivals like Cheltenham Aldeburgh and the longest established Three Choirs Festival feature their country music, no British festival has in recent times included such an extensive and exciting range of British music in one series. Works of nearly 70 composers are included. The Perth programs have been wisely spaced over the six week festival period and though many of the concerts will start at the customary 8 pm some will be at 6 pm to enable patrons to attend another festival attraction the same evening.
Works by Vaughan Williams Gordon Jacob, Howard Ferguson, Lennox Berkeley and Michael Tippett will be new to W.A. The London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Colin Davis will introduce Bliss’s “Discourse for Orchestra” to Australia in one of its Perth concerts. In the other, Tippitt’s Symphony No. 2 and Stravinsksy’s Symphony in Three movements will be played here for the first time. Leading W.A. musicians appearing as soloists in the festival will include soprano Molly McGurk who will sing Benjamin Britain’s song cycle Les Illuminations with the W.A. Symphony Orchestra. She will also sing the solo soprano part in the University Choral Society’s performance of Vaughan Williams A Sea Symphony. Stephen Dorman will be the accompanist for tenor David Galliver’s three British song recitals. He will also partner violinist Vaughan Hanly in a Sonata recital and will play the solo part in constant Lambert’s Concerto for Orchestra and Nine Instruments. Jack Harrison will be the soloist in David Tunley’s Clarinet Concerto and will be joined by the Oriel Quartet in Bliss Clarinet Quintet. Graham Wood will introduce James Penberthy’s Romance for Violin and Orchestra and Alice Carrard will be the pianist with the A.B.C. Wind Players in Rawsthorne’s recent quintet. Madame Carrard will be joined by Mr Stephen Dornan, Stephanie James and Michael Cole to perform Malcolm Williamson’s new Concerto for Wind Quintet and two pianos. The new university organist, Mr John Hind, will be soloist in a program which will feature the W.A. Bach Society. The Oriel Quartet will also be the soloists with the W.A. Symphony Orchestra in Elgar’s Introduction and Allegro for strings and will give a separate recital of works by Howells, Frank Bridge, John Exton (the newly appointed senior lecturer in music at the university) Gerald Finzi, Elizabeth Lutyens and Edmund Rubbra.
The West Australian September 1965
1966
1966 NEW PROGRAM OF “EVERGREENS” FROM W.A.
JACK HARRISON AND HIS MUSIC
A new series of popular all-time favourite music will start on Monday on May 16 1966 at 8.30pm on the First Network.
It will be presented by six members of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra led by Jack Harrison. Special arrangements have been written for their combination of bassoon, bass, violin, piano and percussion with the leader doubling on clarinet and saxophone. There are five programs in the series to be titled “Jack Harrison and his Music”. Jack Harrison will occasionally introduce his first love the mouth organ. He is a versatile musician and once made a multi track recording in which he played 14 instruments including percussion and piano. He has been a member of the W.A. Symphony Orchestra for 15 years during which he has appeared frequently as soloist in clarinet and saxophone Concertos. Highlights of these performances were the Australian Premiere of the Aaron Copland Clarinet Concerto and the Richard Strauss Double Concerto for Bassoon and Clarinet. On this occasion the bassoon soloist was his twin sister Jill who also joins him in his new series doubling on piano and percussion. Items in the first program are “Mice on the Move”, “Gigi”, “Sidewalk”, “Petite Waltz”, “Holiday in Honduras”, “Comedian Gallop” The Pygmy Patrol”, “Will O‘ Wisp” and “Forever Samba”. The other artists in the series Laszlo Vidak violin John Mowson bass Stephanie James piano and Verdon Williams percussion.
On 17th November 2018, Stephanie died aged 94.
