The first community concert of the season took place on Thursday night in the Town Hall, when a fair gathering of enthusiasts fallowed Conductor Gordon “Billy Edwards” Beeck. As usual, Mrs. Kath. Williams did yeoman service at the piano. A new feature at this season’s concerts will be the use of slides for community numbers. They were introduced on Thursday and proved very popular. Mr. Palmer has kindly put the use of his plant at the disposal of the committee, and Mr. Max. Tonkin has undertaken the showing of the slides. Gordon himself has undertaken their preparation, and the first batch to be used consisted of the latest and most popular screen hits, such as “Rainbow on the River,” “”Hiis’ll Make You Whistlf,” “Moonlight and Shadows,” and many other not so new but still very popular. The committee is to be congratulated on this splendid innovation.
During the evening four artists appeared and were well received by the audience. Mr. Ken. Gosper played two piano solos, consisting of medleys of popular song-hits. Mr. Cliff. Pearson, who was accompanied by Mr. Beeck, rendered two delightful violin solos— “Tosselli’s Serenade” and. “Ah, Sweet Mystery of life.” • Ever-popular Mrs. Floyd sang two numbers, “Trees” and “Goodnight, My Love,” the latter being especially well received. She was accompanied by Mrs. A. Norrish. A piano solo by Mrs. Leppard was warmly applauded by the audience.
Conductor Gordon has yet another successful concert to his credit, his judicious mixing of community items, artists and slide songs and witticisms from the stage making a grand evening’s entertainment. During the evening, he announced that a concert would be held next Thursday, when a special programme would be offered, including a little dancer from Perth who appeared here last-year, local Artists and slide songs.
Great Southern Herald (Katanning, WA), Saturday 7 May 1938, page 5
1939
THE BOYS IN CAMP: Katanning Detachment 11th Battalion in Training.
Some nought-o-naught militiamen of the Katanning Detachment, 11th Battalion, entrained on November 10th for one month’s continual training in the metropolitan area, and from “Somewhere in Melville” comes news of their activities.
Travelling to Perth, they somewhat let down the reputation of the A.I.F.; but, although the engine-driver was obliged to wait on them at every station before proceeding, they at least did not pull the Railway Department’s property to pieces, and all arrived sound in wind and limb. They were met at Perth and transported to their future home by motor ‘buses, arriving tired and hungry shortly after noon.
The camp itself is ideal. Situated amid towering redgums, it presents the appearance perhaps more gene rally accepted as fitting a tourist camping ground than a military training camp. Row on row of teats pitched in a hollow amid the trees house the troops, while on the slope well-constructed and airy iron mess
huts are a popular rendezvous for a seemingly endless stream of men at the mess parades. Situated so close to civilisation, extra, conveniences are available in the form of a decent water supply, which operates in excellently constructed showers and wash basins, and all mess huts are electrically lighted.
Work for the day concludes at 4.30p.m., and after tea at 5.30 troops can obtain leave till 10.30 p.m. Many take advantage of the opportunity of getting out of camp, but a great number adjourn to the nearby Y.M.C.A. or Salvation Army tents, where letters may be written or books read and a wireless enjoyed. Entertainment is also to be found within the camp confines, and Ken. Gosper, an ex-Katanning lad, is ever popular with his piano-accordeon. It is a common sight to see anything up to a hundred men grouped around his tent in the evening, enjoying his gifted playing and wholeheartedly singing any familiar tune; nor is his audience confined to the “ungodly” and non coms., for often Sam Browns can be seen glistening in the light of theswinging lantern.
The camp of some nought-nought o-o men rises at 5.30 a.m., and after a morning run at 6 o’clock cleans up tents and prepares for the day’s toil till 7 a.m., what breakfast is ready. Getting under way at eight, the troops work till the welcome break for lunch at 12.30, and re-commence at 2 p.m. for a further 2 1/2 hours’ work. The need of the inner man is well catered for, a three-course meal being served at night while break-fast and lunch are all one could ask for.
Saturday afternoon and Sunday were spent cleaning up the camp site, and on Monday real work began. Troops worked on Tuesday morning, but in the afternoon only one parade was held—an M.O. parade at which they were “shot” for typhoid. “Shot” is the ideal word to use, as some of the lads, well primed beforehand with camp gossip, gently but most ungracefully passed out in the process, some before and others after.
CAMP LETTERS.
The camp is served with a daily inward and outward mail service, and all letters should be addressed to “C” Company, 11th Battalion Camp, Melville,” giving the rank of the addressee.
This article is merely to serve as an introduction, to the camp, giving a background to the life under training conditions. Next Saturday we shall publish some of the lighter side of camp life.
Great Southern Herald (Katanning, WA), Saturday 18 November 1939, page 4
1946
SUNDAY JULY 28 1946 – MAKE THIS A DATE — GALA COMMUNITY AND VARIETY CONCERT, Princess Theatre Fremantle (Kindly loaned by Grand Theatres) Proceeds in aid Fremantle City R.S.L.. LOOK AT THIS LINE-UP OF TOP-LINE ARTISTS: Joan Bridger — Sweet Singer of Popular Songs. Jackie Harrison — Our Own youthful Larry Adler. Frank Fenn — the Very Different Funny Man. Len Ford -Fremantle’s Popular Baritone. Ken Gosper — and his Melodious Piano Accordeon. Angus McLean — Master Exponent of the Trumpet. Betty Elder – Vocalist. And ‘THE HOT SHOTS’— Non-Stop Crazy Musical Act Including: Merv Rowston at the Drums and Horno-Washboard. Jack Samuels — The Singing Cowboy. Lionel and A. — The Barnyard Musical Duo. Skinny Guy – Corn Doctor. THIS IS A RIOT ! ! Quick-Fire Quiz. Boodle for Brains. Cash Prizes. Introducing ‘Asparagus’, The Quiz Kid.
On Thursday evening last Mr. Evans of Perth brought his vaudeville show to Toodyay to present the “Gaieties of 1946.”
Among the artists, most of whom were returned servicemen, were: “Nutty” Cook (drummer), Greta Hall (singer), Mr. Rennie (comedian), Ken Gosper (piano accordion), Yvonne Teague (ballerina), Miss Wylie (ballet mistress), Mr. Young (saxophonist, clarionet and violinist), Miss Cecilia Young (show girl and ballet dancer), Great Devante (Master of Magic), Ian Meale (female impersonator) and Eric Allen (novelty pianist and musical director). Some very interesting funnies were put over by the talented comedian and ballet dancing was also well received by the large audience. Orchestral and band musical numbers were sundered right throughout the programme, making excellent accompaniments for the well-known and most popular numbers sung by Greta Hall. This show will be presented in Kalgoorlie tomorrow night and will .be leaving for South Australia early in January. We wish Mr. Evans and all his artists the very best of luck and trust they may return at a later date with bigger shows for a much increased audience of people.
BRUNSWICK – HAPPY CHRISMAS PARTY AT LOCAL CREAMERY DEPOT An artist’s impression of the proposed new premises of the Brunswick depot for Peter’s Creamers Ltd., dominated the scene, when over 400 producers and customers of the district were entertained by the firm on Wednesday last at Brunswick. Perth artists in A.B.C. announcer Peter Harrison, Martin Gischus, Al. Thompson and Lionel Urquhart, with Ken Gosper at the piano, provided the tempo for the happy throng, who seated at the long tables in the hall, thoroughly enjoyed the party.
Harvey-Murray Times (Bunbury, WA), Thursday 24 December 1953, page 8
Blind from birth, much admired jazz pianist and piano accordion player, Billy Clowes, was born in 1930.
Billy worked a great deal with Jack Harrison and was great friends with Jack, Jill and Ray. Jack took Billy on a tandem bike down the huge hill from King’s Park down to Perth so he could feel what it was like to ride a bike. Jack reminisced that not everyone would hire Billy for gigs as, being blind, he required transport, assistance to the bathroom and food and drinks provided for him.
Jack and Marcia enjoyed holidays at the Clowes house at Palm Beach, near Safety Bay.
Jody and Jack Harrison visited Billy in his retirement. Billy had a huge collection of recordings all carefully labelled in braille.
1948
Variety Show
Wooroloo Hospital Queen contest will be officially opened by His Excellency, Lieut Governor Sir James Mitchell at a variety concert to be held at the Ambassadors
Theatre tomorrow, Sunday, July 18, at 3 pm. Local artists on the programme include pianists Henry Cochrane and Billy Clowes, Jack Harrison and his Swing Quartette, entertainers Dave Howard and Coral Gunning and songsters Maurice Jaffey, Dawn Hack and Betty Hatfield.
Mirror Saturday 17 July 1948 page 15
BLIND BOY AIMS TO LEAD BAND
Every afternoon at the Braille ‘ Society office in William-st, an 18-year-old youth learns economics and history. Study is hard for most young people; but it is harder for him. He is blind. And, he is not particularly interested in history or economics. His ambition is to lead a swing band. The youth is Bill Clowes, of the Bedford Hotel, Perth. Although he was able to ride his own bicycle to school when he was a small boy, it was not long before an ailment left him blind. Despite his handicap he has already started on the road to success. On Friday he began a season with a swing pianist with Perth’s Tivoli Theatre. Bill got his chance when he won a radio contest recently. Bill was taught to play the piano by pianist Henry Cochran.
BOND swing pianist Bill Clowes (18) who despite his handicap is one rung up the ladder to musical success.
Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Wednesday 22 September 1948, page 4
Billy Clowes (centre back) on a picnic with Ray Harrison, Norma Webber and friends.
1949
Swing Show Thursday 23 June 1949
Organised by A.B.C.’s Dave Howard on Thursday evening at the Burt Memorial Hall from 7.15 to 7.45 p.m. was attended by a mixed crowd of more than 300, who thoroughly appreciated the program broadcast over WF.
The four bands which took part were as follows: WA Jazz Group (a Dixieland outfit), the Jack Harrison Quartet, Harry Bluck’s ABC Rhythmettes and Sammy Sharp’s 10 piece outfit.
Among the dance band fans saw Dorothy McMeikan, of Nedlands and Joan Bullmore also of the Nedlands district. A family group was present in Judy Grace and brothers Don and Doug of Mt. Lawley, who were discussing the show with Barbara Swift of Nedlands. Visitor Margaret Jacobs of Narrogin noticed chatting with Betty and Bill Clowes of Perth and Yvonne Bell of Bassendean. Ardent swing fan and record collector Ann Poynton, of Nedlands was one of many who thought that there should be more of this type of show. This is the first occasion in which a program has been presented by local bands over the air in this State, and it should be a forerunner to others along the same lines.
The Mirror Saturday 25 June 1949 page 15
Accent On Boans Ball
Rhythm accent this week is on Boans Ball at the Embassy, where 1200 happy people ‘went to town’ in a celebrative. air. It seemed to be the ball of the season, such was the free-and-easy atmosphere prevailing.
At the Embassy on Monday night, mid the most gay and colourful decorations seen at any ball this year, 1,200 happy people went to Boans Staff Ball. In lemon lace, saw Val Kift Of Swanbourne dancing with South Fremantle footballer E. Eriksson, who hails from the Manchester department. A Mr. and Mrs. floorside table party included Messrs and Mesdames Les Thompson (nee Phil Hayward), Colin Woods, Jack McAlinden and the Arthur Stanleys …. Been doing a spot of shuffling June Podger, of Belmont, Pam Keyser and Charmain Williams, both of Inglewood . . . Couldn’t help remarking upon Boy Coates doing a trifle of skylarking during supper interval quickstep …. In the cabaret section was invited to a table party shared by Nita Taylor and Bill Allen, of Boans ‘ (Nita, attractively dressed In pink inclined Candle striped taffeta off the shoulder), Shirley Capper, Maidavale, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Owens and Mr. and Mrs: George Redman.
Swing Show organised by teenager’s ‘ Dave Howard on Thursday evening at the Burt Memorial Hall from 7.15 to 7.45 p.m. was attended by a mixed crowd of
more than 300, who thoroughly appreciated the program broadcast over WF. The four bands which took part were as follows: WA Jazz Group (a Dixieland outfit), the Jack Harrison Quartet, Harry Bluck’s ABC Rhythmettes and Sammy Sharp’s 10piece outfit.Among Among the dance band fans saw Dorothy McMeikan, of Nedlands and Joan Bullmore also of the Nedlands district … A family group was present in Judy Grace and brothers Don and Doug of Mt. Lawley, who were discussing the show with Barbara Swift of Nedlands . . . Visitor Margaret Jacobs of Narrogin noticed chatting with Betty and Bill Clowes of Perth and Yvonne Bell of Bassendean . . . Ardent swing fan and record collector Ann Poynton, of Nedlands was one of many who thought that there should be more of this type of show . . . This is the first occasion in which a program has been presented by local bands over the air in this State, and it should be a forerunner to others along the same lines.
Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 25 June 1949, page 15
“COMMAND PERFORMANCE”
Capitol Theatre Next Sunday Night (Sun 2 Oct)
In old of Legacy War Orphans’ Appeal.
Dick Fair, of Amateur Hour fame.
Anew McMaster and Company.
Gaved, Chinese Magician.
Albert Chappelle.
Billy Edwards and The Specialty Harmonists.
Y.A.L. Boys in Jack Anstey’s “Cuban Fair.”
Jack Harrison’s Swing Quartette.
The Wrightsons.
Betty Whittaker and Phil. Moran.
Wally Hadley.
Laurie Croisette of London.
Billy Clowes, Blind Pianist.
Charlie Court.
Cliff Adams.
Pamela Flower.
Phyllis Blott and Winnie Walker, Accompanists.
Caledonian Pipe Bond.
ANEW McMASTER, Producer.
Lounge 10/-, Front Stalls 7/-, Circle 5/-, Back Stalls 3/-.
The West Australian Wednesday 28 September 1949 page 30
CONCERT AT CAPITOL (Sunday 2 Oct 1949)
Good Response To Legacy Drive
The Legacy Club’s appeal for £ 10,000 benefited to the amount of £650 from the “Command Performance” on Sunday night at the Capitol Theatre. It was announced that in the two days since the appeal was launched, £1,500 had been donated and that an anonymous person had offered to donate £100 if five others would contribute a similar sum. The performance was compered by Mr. Dick Pair, of “Australia Hour” fame, produced by Mr. Michael Eustace and contributed to by star artists, all of whom gave their services free. The theatre was packed in all parts. Mr. Fair was piped on to the stage by the W.A. Caledonian Pipe Band. Mr. F. Gaved opened the programme with entertaining feats of magic, after which Mr. Charles Court (cornetist) rendered two items. Miss Pamela Flower’s contributions were followed by dance items by Mr. and Mrs. Wrightson and two sisters, Regina and Janina. Mr. Laurie Croisette, a London baritone, made his first appearance in Australia with two numbers and a guitar selection. Mr. Billy Edwards’s Specialty Harmonists (Messrs. L. Hancock, G. Griffiths, W. Frankish and L Richardson) were heard in three choruses, and Jack Harrison’s Swing Quartette was then heard. A male ballet of Y.A.L boys gave an exhibition of dancing and tap dancing. There was sustained applause for the blind pianist, Mr. Billy Clowes and Bette Whittaker and Phil Morgan. Mr. Albert Chappelle (baritone) had to respond to an encore. A banjo solo by Wally Hadley was also included. The accompanists were Mrs. N. W. Freemantle, Misses Phyllis Blott and Joan Drede and Mr. Billy Edwards.
The West Australian Tuesday 4 October 1949 page 6
SUCCESS IN ADELAIDE
Blind W.A. Pianist Wins Contest A 19-year-old Perth youth who has been blind from birth and who had barely touched a key on a piano until about five years ago, easily won an all Australian “Amateur Hour” radio contest conducted by Dick Fair in Adelaide recently. He is William Clowes, son of a well-known hotelkeeper. The piece that he played was “Dark Eyes.” On Thursday night Mr. W. Clowes, sen., who is well known in football circles, was told by telegram that his son had won the contest, gaining more than twice as many votes as any of his opponents. The talent quest had attracted nine candidates from South Australia in addition to the West Australian candidate, who polled 7.161 votes compared with 3.304 for his nearest opponent. Bill Clowes, jun:, played at the “command performance” concert in aid of the Legacy Club at the Capitol Theatre recently and the reception that he was given induced his father to take hint by air to South Australia for an audition for the “Amateur Hour” competition. He so impressed the auditors that he was placed on the programme that night. The young pianist was originally self-taught, though he has since received lessons from a professional pianist. lie has no knowledge of Braille music, and what knowledge of music he has acquired has been entirely by ear. “I’m afraid I would not be much use in a dance band,” he said yesterday, “but I would like to make a career in radio.”
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 29 October 1949, page 12
BLIND PIANIST WINS WITH 7160 VOTES
One of the highest votes given to an individual artist on the Amateur Hour for some time went to Billy Clowes, a nineteen-year old blind pianist, who at Adelaide on October 13 gave his own arrangement of Dark Eyes. He had polled 1896 votes by nine o’clock (and he was sixth on the programme), sufficient evidence of the way in which he went over. His final total was 7160. Dick Fair heard him play in Perth (his home town) when the Hour’s compere made a flying visit there for a Legacy function, and was so impressed that he arranged for his visit to Adelaide to appear in the programme.
Billy Clowes had jumped into first place in the voting by 9 o’clock. This was an outstanding achievement, polling 1896 votes in half an hour. Billy is a very competent pianist, and is now learning to play the banjo. He arranges his own music for this, too. Billy Clowes, watched by Dick Fair and Mr. W. Clowes, his father, who came with him from Perth to appear on the Hour He was born blind, and can only learn by listening to music, then re-producing it in his own way.
ABC Weekly Vol. 11 No. 45 (5 November 1949)
ARTISTS AT BIG CONCERT
Saturday 3 December 1949
Here are a few more items of interest about the Grand Concert to be held in His Majesty’s Theatre on Saturday December 3 in aid of the United Nations Children’s Appeal. In addition to the performers already mentioned, Billy Clowes, Billy Clowes, the blind West Australian pianist who won the Amateur Hour polling a few weeks ago will appear. Also you will see Don Vicker’s piano-accordion group, the George Everson banjo band and Glen Matson and his guitar quartet. The Kindergarten Union trainees will present a mime called “The Tall, Tall Castle” and well known personality Jack Harrison will also be featured.
An item of particular interest will be the appearance of Mr. A. Croisette, Hillbilly artist. Mr Croisette, an Englishman, has been in W.A. for about two months. He called on Bill Bennitt of 6IX and was immediately auditioned for “National Fair”. That was two days after his arrival in Australia. Shortly afterwards he appeared in “Command Performance” in the Capitol Theatre and dick Fair commented on the outstanding quality of his singing. Mr Croisette is the possessor of a magnificent baritone voice and can sing almost any kind of music, but prefers the hillbilly numbers which he will feature in this concert. He was successfully auditioned by the B.B.C. in England, and but for his move out here, would undoubtably have been heard on air over there. The concert is being arranged by Aunty Judy of the 6IX-WB-MD Children’s Hour who will compere the show.
MARCIA: Friday 10th March 1950 Jack – 8pm Mt Lawley Tennis Club
Bob and Berwyn and Owen and I went to see Jenny in hospital then went to Mount Lawley (Tennis Club). Jack, Ray, Billy Clowes and the rest of the kids came to our place afterwards. Jim gave me “Isn’t it Romantic”. Had a super time.
1950 Jack and Marcia at Clowes’ Rockingham house
MARCIA: Saturday 8th April 1950
Went to Rockingham with Jack, Bob, Stan, Murray in Anne’s car went to Billy Clowe’s for lunch. [Billy Clowes family had a beach house at Palm Beach]. Went to pictures at night with Jack and six boys saw “Gunga Din” had a luscious time. [“Gunga Din” is a 1939 American adventure film starring Cary Grant, Victor McLaglen, and Douglas Fairbanks Jr.]
MARCIA: Tuesday 18th. Jack “Mirth and Music” broadcasted by 6WF Tuesday nights
Went night school. Went to “give it a go” with Jack [competition run by Jack Davey over radio station 2AD Give it a Go (1957) was hosted by radio and TV personality Jack Davey, who also hosted The Pressure Pak Show. The show had pairs of contestants who competed against each other by answering general knowledge questions and was sponsored by the laundry powder company Persil.] then to Billy Clowes’s. Jack came back to our place.
Billy Clowes (piano), Sammy Sharp (trumpet), Ray Harrison (drums)
Wednesday 10th May 1950
Jack Harrison: Cheque to: Bill Clowes Uni Dramatic £2/15
Thursday 10th August 1950
Jack Harrison: Cheque to: Bill Clowes wages £7/5/6
A Light In The Darkness – Braille Society’s Work For The Blind
Reading is a relaxation that appeals to practically every member of the community, whether they be young or old. Can you imagine, then, what it would mean if one were suddenly cut off from one’s reading, by the loss of one’s sight? The Braille Society for the Blind of W.A. (Inc.) is a veritable light in the darkness for the 500-odd blind people in this State whose sight is impaired or destroyed and has a library of volumes embracing every class of literature — many of them done by hand by voluntary workers.
One of its most important functions is the rehabilitation of the blinded person, and the restoring of his confidence; then proving to the world that he is capable of doing so very much than he is given credit for. This is one of the reasons why the Society is always eager to further secondary education, particularly of young blinded people. As outstanding protégées of the organisation, Mrs. Gibbon mentioned … Mr. Bill Clowes, who is making quite a name for himself by playing “swing” on the piano. “Whenever necessary,” she said, “textbooks are put into Braille. Over 1543 volumes and many magazines are circulated throughout the year, and are handled free of charge by the P.M.G.’s Department.
Farmers’ Weekly (Perth, WA : 1947 – 1954), Thursday 5 October 1950, page 20
1951
PEOPLE YOU LISTEN TO
John Tuttell, producer of Australia’s Amateur Hour” who arrived in Perth on March 6th, has launched many artists on the way to fame and fortune. Among them are Barbara Leigh, who stirs Dudley Davenport’s amorous propensities in Much-Binding-in-the-Marsh. The Four Guardsmen, frequently heard on the radio, and Ronald Jackson, winner of this year’s Mobil Quest. This is Mr Tuttell’s first visit to the West, but in his five years as producer of Australia’s Amateur Hour he has welcomed many artists from Perth, including Jack Harrison and Billy Clowes the blind pianist. Mr Tuttell went from school into radio 2FC, and like Claude Rains, who rose from call boy to film star, rose from office boy to announcer, and after a spell learning the technical side of radio (inspired, he says, by his delight in twiddling dials) he joined the Lux Radio Theatre and Australia’s Amateur Hour.
The Broadcaster Saturday March 17 1951
1952
Story of Billy Clowes, one of Perth’s most popular pianists, is the story of triumph over adversity. Billy was born almost blind. At 13 he went to the Perth Blind School. He had no more than a passing interest in music, but, seeking a worthwhile hobby, he later asked music teacher Henry Cochran to teach him to play. He was now completely blind, and tuition posed a problem that at times seemed almost insurmountable. But with dogged perseverance, aided by an understanding tutor Billy Clowes finally mastered the art of playing by ear. Now he is firmly established as one of Perth’s leading musicians. He plays each night at a leading city hotel and has been heard on local radio. His ambition — to study Braille music in Melbourne and later go to the Melbourne Conservatorium. His favourite pianists — Art Tatum, George Shearing and Lennie Tristano — all of them, like Billy himself, blind.
Mirror Sat 1 November 1952 page 6
1953
EASTER PARADE of Fashions and Entertainment His Majesty’s Theatre (Kindly loaned by R.M.T. Co.) SUNDAY. MARCH 29th at 8.45 p.m. – doors open 8 p.m. Entire proceeds for the War Blinded and Aged Blind Appeal. A Fashion Spectacle of Easter and Autumn frocks evening gowns, furs, teen-age and sports wear worn by Perth’s leading mannequins presented by L. J. LEE McALINDEN in latest Continental style. Studded- with novel variety including HARRY BLUCK AND ORCHESTRA Winterbottom Motor Co. Brass Bond, Billy Clowes, Phyllis Frost BOX PLANS OPEN MONDAY at Nicholsons. D/e and Stalls 5/. (no tax).
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 21 March 1953, page 31
1955
JAZZ JAMBOREE
Sunday, October 2, 1955
Capitol Theatre
1955’s biggest swing show!
Admission 5/. Don’t miss it.
Book now ad for Jazz Fantasia 20 November – Jack Harrison scrap book
– JACK HARRISON’S QUARTETTE
Numbers –
“Geneva’s Move”
“Can’t Get Started”
“Jumping with Symphony Sid”
PERSONNEL: Jack Harrison (Clarinet, Sax), Billy Clowes (Piano), Ted Campbell (Drums), John Mowson (Bass).
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
1962
ATTRACTIVE PERFORMANCE
Southern Serenaders Tour
Verdon Williams, popular conductor of the Perth Light Orchestra and the A.B.C. Sinfonietta, will head the orchestra which will tour the North West next month. Accordion virtuoso Peter Piccini and versatile clarinettist Jack Harrison will also tour with the group. All the musicians with the exception of Peter Piccini are members of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra. People in the North will once again hear the magic violin of Laszlo Vidak, who earned thundering ovations during the 1959 M.M.A. A.B.C. Cultural Tour of the “Lido Quartet”.
Jack Harrison has written a special number called “Jumping Joeys” for this tour. Soprano, Shirley Flesfader, will also sing three excerpts from the lyric song cycle “North of Capricorn” by W.A. Composer, Robert Gude.
The outstanding gaiety and appeal of the programme compiled and arranged by Verdon Williams includes selections by Cole Porter, excerpts from “Oklahoma” and Latin American music and a special arrangement for string quartet of a movement from “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” by Mozart. Shirley Flesfader will sing arias from Bizet’s opera “Carmen”, Puccini’s “Madame Butterfly” and a selection from “Kismet”. Peter Piccini will give an impromptu recital of audience request numbers. Each member of the group will be heard in solo items and the versatile musicians will play a wide variety of instruments.
Jack Harrison’s scrap book
1962 Jack Harrison Derby Southern Serenaders article
MUSICIANS TO TOUR IN NORTH
The A.B.C. and MacRobertson Miller Airlines Ltd. Will send seven musicians through the North-West for a series of concerts between August 28 and September 8. The A.B.C. artists will fly 4000 miles in 12 days to give concerts in Carnarvon, Port Hedland, Broome, Derby, Wyndham, Kununurra and Darwin. The group is to be led by Verdon Williams, will include Shirley Fresfader, Peter Piccini (accordion), Jack Harrison (clarinet and harmonica), Graham Wood (violin), Laslo Vidak (violin and viola) and Brian Meddeman (cello and violin). A small TV film unit will tour with the group. The film they make will be shown in the Eastern States as a part of an A.B.C. project to focus attention on the North.
The West Australian August 8 1962
The “Southern Serenaders”
From August 28 – September 8th 1962 the A.B.C. sent a small group of musicians, led by Verdon Williams, on a tour of the north west of the state. Apart from Verdon, the ensemble which we called “The Southern Serenaders” included Graham Wood on violin, Laslo Vidak on violin and viola, Brian Meddemmen on cello, Jack Harrison on clarinet and harmonica, Peter Piccini on accordion and soprano Shirley Flesfader.
Graham Wood wrote to me: “ We travelled by DC3 aircraft, giving concerts in Carnarvon, Port Hedland, Derby, Broome, Darwin, Wyndham and Kununurra. Verdon had arranged all the music, which was of a pretty light nature and we all had a solo spot. We were paid £8 per concert and received a living allowance of £3/3/0 a day. We had a happy time, enjoying each other’s company. Peter Piccini was a natural comic and poor Shirley was the butt of many a practical joke, which she took in good part. One thing I remember vividly was the night when a huge stick insect landed on my violin while I was playing “The Flight of the Bumblebee”!
Most of the towns were still remote and largely undeveloped at that time, so people really appreciated our efforts. The aborigines were shy about coming to our concerts, so in Derby a few of us were taken out to a camp late at night after our performance. In a moonlit clearing we played to the people, some of whom produced a couple of digeridoos and played them for us. A magical moment ensued, as Jack Harrison quietly joined in with some gentle improvisations on his clarinet. We were entranced as were all the people there, dogs included. A genuine fusion of cultures.”
RECORD AUDIENCE CHEERS 1962 CULTURAL TOUR
The A.B.C. “Southern Serenaders” played to an estimated audience of 6000 people during their 4000 mile tour of seven North West ports including Darwin and Kununurra.
Darwin gave the orchestra its largest reception. About 4000 people crowded the Darwin oval sitting on available chairs provided, on rugs on the ground and in hundreds of motor cars parked around the perimeter of the ground. Darwin’s town Clerk (Bill Sullivan), who estimated the size of the audience, remarked that in all his experience it was the largest crowd he had seen in Darwin at such a presentation. Everywhere they went the “Southern Serenaders” earned cheering ovations and goodwill for M.M.A. and the A.B.C.
Departing from Derby around 4am, Jack Harrison (clarinet) and Peter Piccini (accordion) decided to hold an impromptu jam session in the air terminal. When M.M.A.’s chartered F.27 arrived, they moved out onto the tarmac, serenading the sleepy-eyed passengers that emerged from the aircraft in the small hours. The previous night, six members of the orchestra, augmented by four aborigine musicians, improvised what was probably the most unique combination of sounds heard in the North in a long time. The only bachelor in the orchestra, cellist Brian Meddemmen, was the only member of the group game enough to bring home an aboriginal wife beater. Violinist Laszlo Vidak fell victim to “fiddler’s peril” when the top string on his violin broke during a solo. He finished the item without a break and few people realised what had happened until Verdon Williams mentioned it to the audience.
On arrival at Wyndham, Peter Piccini discovered that the precision mechanism on one key on his £500 accordion had broken. A technician from Wyndham Aeradio was located who did a superb welding job at short notice and a scant hour before the concert there. Mr Piccini was still replacing bits and pieces of springs, levers and keys with the able assistance of Graham Wood and Jack Harrison.
In their off-duty moments, most members of the group took the opportunity to see the surrounding countryside of the towns they visited. Mr. E.K. Sholl, A.B.C. Manager, Fred Combs, A.B.C.2 cameraman and cellist Brian Meddermmen earned top honours for vim, vigour and vitality by climbing the Bastion at Wyndham and Kelly’s Knob at Kununurra. Shirley Flesfader was the only member of the touring group to return to Perth with genuine Nor’-West influenza. Well on the road to recovery as Jetstream went to press, Miss Flesfader enjoyed the joke on herself remarking “Trust the soprano to be the only one in the company to catch the ‘flu’”. To Verdon Williams, the North-West was a paradise. He collected seeds and minute cuttings of different varieties of Western Australian plants, shrubs and flowers. Some are already established in the large garden of his south Perth home.
PRAISE FROM A.B.C.
At every port-of-call, the Manager for Western Australia of the Australian Broadcasting Commission, Mr. E.K. Sholl, told audiences at the “Southern Serenaders” concerts how greatly he admired the work being done by M.M.A. to bring culture programmes into the North. He went on to assure audiences that by next March the A.B.C.’s two short wave stations, VLX and VLW, would increase their signals from 10 to 50 kilowatts and from 2 to 10 kilowatts respectively. “You will then be able to receive Perth short wave broadcasts with approximately the same clarity as you now receive Melbourne’s transmission through Radio Australia”, Mr Sholl said. This, he anticipated, would enhance the listening pleasure of almost everyone in the North from Carnarvon to Wyndham. Jetstream Official Publication of Mac.Robertson Miller Airlines Ltd. Vol 1. No. 20 September 1962
1936-2011
The renowned Peter Piccini, Perth’s internationally acclaimed virtuoso of the piano accordion, pianist, composer, arranger, conductor, and master of music, passed away on Tuesday October 11th, 2011, at Murdoch Community Hospice, which is part of St John of God Hospital, and situated within the hospital’s grounds in the Perth suburb of Murdoch, Western Australia.
Peter was born in Sydney on June 4th 1936, the son of Pietro Piccinino (known as Peter Piccini Senior), from whom he acquired his skills with the accordion, for his father was himself an acclaimed musician. Piccini Senior emigrated from Italy to Australia in 1922 and started his musical career touring Queensland’s cane fields, entertaining workers, before moving to the cities of Sydney and Melbourne to perform on the Tivoli circuit, playing his accordion in a vaudeville act, and providing musical accompaniment for silent movies in Melbourne, then in 1934 he appeared in the sound movie “Strike Me Lucky” with Roy Rene. Piccini Senior also featured as a soloist with the Isidor Goodman Orchestra and appeared on all radio stations with Jim Davidson’s famous dance band and made many recordings with Regal Zonophone and Columbia Records. He also performed for the 2FC Jack Davey radio Quiz shows in Sydney.
Meanwhile, Peter Piccini Junior made his first solo appearance as an accordionist at a school concert when he was only seven years old and although he showed promise on this occasion he did not begin studying seriously until he reached the age of fourteen.
Peter Junior started broadcasting for national and commercial radio stations at the age of fifteen and appeared in many state performances. He subsequently went to Europe and England in 1955 to broadcast for the BBC, made several television appearances there and performed at the famous club Pigalle as accompanist for the French singer Line Renuld. During this time Peter also toured Italy with the famous Claudio Villa, one of Italy’s most respected and loved popular singers, appearing together on television, radio, stage productions and on recordings.
During the early 1950s Piccini Senior moved to Perth, Western Australia with his son Peter Junior, both involved with a music shop specialising in piano accordions in Perth’s Forrest Place and Peter Junior was heard regularly on Perth radio with his father conducting piano accordion lessons.
TVW veteran Richard Ashton remembers Peter Piccini during the good times on the Peninsular in South Perth, as 16-17 year olds back in 1952, enjoying bonfire nights, parties and going dancing with mutual friend Jim Dyer, which gave him a break from music. His father used to say that he wanted Peter to meet ordinary young men, rather than be cloistered away concentrating on music studies all the time.
A popular dance venue was the Kings Park Tennis Club where Jack and Jill Harrison entertained. Jack later joined Peter on his Clarion Record for Martin Clarke in 1974, titled Nostalgia Accordion. Other members of the band included Ray Walker on lead guitar and Bill Tattersall on drums, who both played with TVW’s “In Perth Tonight” orchestra. Many will remember Jack Harrison as the lead clarinettist with the WA Symphony Orchestra.
1950
