Person

BLACK, Alec

Alexander “Alec” Carl Black was born in January 1912 in Northam and had a brother Edward and sister Hilda who were both prominent pianists in Perth’s music scene.

Alec married Rona Wedgwood in 1941 and they had four sons, Geoffrey (who was a violinist int the WASO), Russell, Douglas and Neville.

Alec played viola in the very early days of the Perth Symphony Orchestra, later WASO. He was also an accomplished pianist and doubled on celeste when necessary. He was also a professional music copiest.

1933

KYLIE MUSIC CLUB – October’s Varied Programme

The first part of the programme at the October meeting of the Kylie Music Club on Saturday afternoon was devoted to Brahms, but works by Dvorak, Liszt, Leschetisky and some Hungarian folk songs gave variety after the interval. The most important work performed was the fine piano quintet in F minor (Opus. 34), The four movements snow Brahms in his strongest and most challenging moods, rather than in his gentler moments, and even the beautiful slow movement is remarkable more for strength than for delicacy. The players were Mr. Lio Chase and Miss Margaret Sharp (first and second violin), Mr. Alec Black (viola), Mr. Val Robertson (‘cello) and Mr. Edward Black (piano), the last named giving a brilliant performance throughout, and the ensemble work being admirably maintained. The concluding number was a Dvorak Sonatina in G major, played by Mr. Leo Chase, with Mr. Edward Black at the piano, and was also very interesting.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Monday 23 October 1933, page 8

1934

Music Club at Home.

The president (Mrs. Cecil Mason) and members of the L.A.B. Music Club entertained at an at home at the Karrakatta Club Hall on Saturday night. It was the club’s first social function this season, and proved most enjoyable. The president received the guests wearing a frock of parchment satin with iridescent sequin trim ming, and a scarlet pleated satin shoulder cape. She was assisted in entertaining by the newly-appointed secretary, Miss Marjory Southwood, and some of the members. Madame Madalah Masson and Miss Mona Nugent, who are at present in Perth from the Eastern States, were among the guests of the evening. Madame Masson wore a charming frock of Wedgwood blue georgette, and Miss Nugent chose white silk marocain patterned in a rich red floral design. Mrs. Mason, in a brief speech, extended a cordial welcome to the guests and also to Dr. Crisp, the newly-elected vice president, and expressed pleasure at the number of friends from kindred organisations present. In the course of her remarks she gave a short resume of the club’s activities during the past year, among them being the entertainment of distinguished visitors from the musical world overseas and examiners from London. The hall was arranged with a gay floral decorative scheme, including dahlias, roses, tecomas, carnations, grasses and palms, which produced a galaxy of colour. The programme of music presented was keenly appreciated. Among those contributing items were: — Miss Margaret Sharp. Mr. David Powell, and Miss Hilda Black (a trio by Bach), Miss Edna Curtis (song), Miss June Epstein (piano), Mrs. Dorothy Arnold, and Miss Ivy Stevenson (vocal duet), Messrs. Edward Black, Lio Chase, Alec Black, and Sid Morley (string quartet, Brahms), Miss Marcia Hodges (songs), Miss Gwen Greaves (piano), and the L.A.B. Music Club Choir, who, under the conductorship of Miss Gladys Cunliffe, sang several part songs. In a short interlude in the programme a scene from a Period play (arranged by Mrs. Le Tessier), presented by Misses Sylvia George, Gertrude Cowell, Marjorie Knight, Phyllis Caporn. Anita Fitzgerald, and Mr. Arthur Hardman added to the pleasure of the evening. Supper, handed round in pleasant informal fashion by members of the L.A.B. Club, and en oyed to a babel of cheery conversation, brought the evening’s entertainment to a close. The guests included: — Madame Madalah Masson and Miss Mona Nugent, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Sandover, Mr. and Mrs Basil Kirke, Rabbi and Mrs. Freedman, Mr. and Mrs. C. P. Smith, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Leckie, Dr. and Mrs. Boyd. Dr. and Mrs. Ralph Crisp, Mr. and Mrs. A. Knapp. Mr. and Mrs. G. Reid, Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Southwood, Mr and Mrs. Frank Robertson, Mr. E. J. and Miss G. Watkin. Mr. and Mrs. Fordham, Mr. and Mrs. A. Raphael, Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Binney, Mr. and Mrs. E. Dodd, Mr. and Mrs Frank Davies. Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Treadgold, Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Austin, Mr. and Mrs. K. Raphael. Mr. and Mrs. 6. J. Paterson. Mr. and Mrs. Ottaway; Mesdames W. H. Vincent, Dudley Ward, Howard Birt, Dean, Westcott, Le Tessier, J. H. Main, Clear, A. Arnold. Gilles and Miss Kitty Gilles. Cooper, James Withnell, J. Price, Ick, Pellam Webb; Misses E. Hamilton, Zoe Lenegan, J. L. Young, Molly Ick, Gertrude Wal ton, Kitty Gillies, Gertrude Hutton, Ida Geddes. Flora Bunning, Robson, Anderson, Willets, Meta Pickering, A. Thomas, Skinner, Cranfield. Low den. O’Halloran, Sylvia George, Gertrude Cowell, Marjorie Knight, Phyllis Caporn, Alnwick, L. Howell, Ida Roberts, B. Mitchell, F. Hodd. D. Main, T. Rees, E. Egan, M. Humphry, N. Jack son, M. Cunningham, B. Bockelberg G. Carey. G. Donovan, A. Urquhart. G. Greaves, W. Hamilton, E. and F. Purselove, N. Cullen, J. Rossiter, M. Southwood, V. Kenniwell, Joy Fordham K. Sherlock. M. Hudleston. B. Gravenall, M Millar E. Johns, J. Kennedy. M. Narrett, E. Carmichael, M. Devine. E. Arnold, K. Wilson. P Tweedie, Ida Roberts, I. Parker, G. Cunliffe, E. Curtis, H. Black, P Brennan, J. Tullidge, L. Culligan, Ethel Ewins; Messrs. Cecil Mason, Lio Chase, Arthur Hardman, Edward Black, G Clifton T C. Miller. K. Devenish, Bill and Eric Southwood, Alec Black, and S. Morley.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Monday 12 March 1934, page 8

SUNDAY AFTERNOON CONCERT – Anzac House Fund to Benefit.

The third of a series of ‘Pleasant Sunday afternoon’ concerts arranged by Mr. W. L. Menkens, was held at the North Perth Town Hall yesterday. The Ven. Archdeacon C.L. Riley gave an address on some phases of the Returned Soldiers’ League. He was supported by the State Secretary of the league (Mr. D. M. Benson). The collection was in aid of the Anzac House building fund. Among those present were Senator H. B. Collett and Mr. William Watson, M.H.R. Mr. R. E. Clothier, M.L.A., was in the chair. An enjoyable programme of community singing (conducted by Mr. E. R. Berry), and musical and elocutionary items were given. Mrs. Florence Dain’s speaking choir presented a number of items, including ‘The Welcome’ (Nettie Palmer), ‘The Slip-rails and the Spur’ (Henry Lawson), ‘Frogs in Chorus’ (A. B. Patterson), ‘Sea Fever’ (John Masefield). ‘Car-goes’ (John Masefield) and ‘An Unfinished Picture’ (Norman Gale). A vocal duet, ‘Break, Diviner Light’ (Allitsen), was sung by Air. and Mrs. Jack Trethowan. Solos were given by Mrs. Jack Trethowan, Misses Mary Batey and Rhoda Ash, and Messrs. C. B. Sims, E. J. Brickhill and Jack Trethowan. A violin solo was played by Mr. Alec Black and an instrumental duet (piano and violin), ‘Sonata’ (Mozart), was given by Miss Hilda Black and Mr. Alec Black. Miss Elsie McCallum recited ‘Roses in Rain’ (W. Greaves). A pianoforte solo, ‘Etude’ (Chopin) was played by Miss Thelma E. Berry, who also acted as accompanist. The next ‘pleasant Sunday afternoon’ of the series will be held at the North Perth Town Hall on June 3, at 3 o’clock.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Monday 21 May 1934, page 4

1935

The Kylie Music Club.

A Delightful musical programme was arranged by Mr. David Powell for the monthly meeting of the Kylie Music Club, which took place at the Karrakatta Club hall on Saturday afternoon. The president, Mrs. W. H. Vincent, received the guests at the entrance to the hall wearing a becoming frock of navy blue marocain patterned in white. There was a good attendance and members much enjoyed the programme presented. The following artists contributed items: Nora Coalstad, piano solos by Bach Busoni, Debussy and Ravel; (Mr.) E. N. Moran songs by Bach, Godard, and Coleridge Taylor; Horace Dean, violin solos by Bach and Veracini (accompanied by N. E. Moran); Marcia Hodges, songs by Bach and Brahms; and Flora Bunning and Nora Coalstad, compositions by Bach-Phillip on two pianos. Among those present were:

Mr. and Mrs. T. Meugens, Mr. and Mrs. E. Black, Mrs. N. Balaton and Misses Mary and Dorothy Balston; Mesdames H.C F. Keall, Noel Cuthbert, N. Cowan, Russell-Smith, Raphael, A. Sherwood, Despciessis, C. L. Clifton, Walton. Robert Bunning, R. P. Vincent, E. H. B. Lefroy, K. Hodge, Vine, G. B. Brown, Percy White, Muir, Abbott, R. Crisp; Misses G. Rennie, C. Shenton, H. Coalstad, Hilda Black, Gladys Cunliffe, Gertrude Hutton, Ida Geddes, Joy Fordham, Meta Pickering, Lucy Howell, Gladys Pendred, Veronica Kenniwell, Madge King, Flora Bunning, G. Bunning, Lefroy, V. Lake, Marcia Hodges; Messrs. Rietze, Horace Dean, David Powell, Alec Black and N. E. Meran.

Western Mail (Perth, WA : 1885 – 1954), Thursday 21 February 1935, page 30

1936

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

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

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

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

Music Teachers Gather In Force

THE W.A. Music Teachers Association held its monthly meeting in the Assembly Hall last Saturday night. Despite the cold and wet weather, a large gathering of members and friends was present. They were received by Mr. R. J. Bastian President) and Miss J. L.nYoung (honorary secretary). The hall was prettily decorated with wattle and palms, and on the small supper tables were vases of yellow and white daisies and gold and orange marigolds. Varied Music A delightful programme of choral and instrumental music was presented by members of the association, those taking part being: Mr Frank Robertson’s Ladies’ Choir, in part songs, by Sweeting, Harrison, Pery Buck, Walter Davies and Dr. Rigby; Madame Layton Gaubert, two Brahms’ songs with viola accompaniment by Mr. David Powell; Miss Olga Willson, pianoforte solo, ‘The Lark’ (Glinka); Messrs. A. Black, A. Gamba and S. T. Morley, string trio, ‘Serenade’ (Dohnanyi); Mrs. W. McRostie, two monologues, accompanied by Mr. H. Black; Messrs. A. Gamba’and E. S. Craft, viola and piano duet, ‘Sonate’ (Gorke Bowen): Miss Evelyn Shotter and Mr. David Powell, violin and viola, Mozart Sonata. At the conclusion of the programme a hearty vote of thanks’to the performers was moved by Mr. Dean and seconded by Mr. A. R. Wood. An enjoyable supper concluded the evening. Among The Assembly Those present included Mr. R.J. Bastian (president), Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Leckie, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Mason, Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Craft, Mr. and Mrs. A. R. Wood, Mr. and Mrs. H. Dean, Professor P. H. and Mrs. Fraenkel. Mr. and Mrs. N. E. Moran, Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Hamilton, Mr. and Mrs. F. Tate, Mr. and Mrs. R. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. R. Mooney, Mr. J. Clifton, Mesdames Layton Gaubert, Howard Birt, E. M. McRostie, M. Nicholas, M. Ferres, J. Sheppard. L. Richardson, P. Boesser, E. J. McMonagle and B. N. Hinewood; Misses Trixie Shephard, Meta Pickering, Joy Fordham, Barbara Leckie, G. Thornbury, E. J. Purcell, D. S. Gray, M. Frape, A. P. Ringer, L. Howell, Adela Harris, Evelyn Robson, Jean Hamilton, M. Grigg, Ella Peterson, Joy Saunders, P. Willows, M. and D. Boesser, D. Warrick, L.. L.. Shenton, N. . Henfrey, Ena Corser, W. Seddon, A. MacAndrew, J. Hord, R. Birkhead. Phyllis Daly, Edna Warren; Messrs. J. Clifton, Frank L. Robertson, S. T. Morley. David Powell, A. R. Wood. Alec Black, C. Warren, C. Gamba and Keith Devenish.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Wednesday 8 July 1936, page 8

1939

Royal Schools Music Club. LARGE bowls of poinsettias, tinted banksia, chrysanthemums and roses made an attractive decorative scheme at the Karrakatta Club Hall when the Royal Schools’ Music Club entertained many guests and members on Saturday evening. The president (Mrs. Cecil Mason) received at the entrance to the hall, and chose for the occasion a frock of jade green chiffon with touches of silver. She was assisted by the secretary (Miss Gwenyth Greaves), who wore a frock of eau de nil georgette with corsage spray in violet tonings, and the assistant secretary (Miss Marjorie Wyndham), who chose a frock of delphinium blue taffeta patterned in gold and silver. Mrs. Mason extended a cordial welcome to the guests, and in doing so referred to the fact that Miss Wyndham had been notified that as a result of the recent examinations she had been successful in gaining the diploma of Fellowship of the Trinity College of Music, London, and took the opportunity of extending to Miss Wyndham and her teacher, Miss Ida Roberts (who is also a member), the club’s congratulations on this achievement. The programme of entertainment arranged by Miss Wyndham opened with an interesting paper on “Sir James Barrie,” by Miss Dorothy Mark. This was followed by one of Sir James Barrie’s plays, “Seven Women,” which was presented by the following cast:~Misses Joyce Mortlock and Dorothy Mark, and Messrs. Harold Harvey and Frank O’Grady. A musical programme was also enjoyed, to which the following artists contributed:-Miss Jean Robinson (piano solo), Miss Hilda Black and Mr. Alec Black (sonata for violin and piano), Miss Dorothy Arnold (vocal soli, accompanied by Miss Margaret Cunningham), Miss Joyce Glasson (piano sol), Misses Elvie Arnold and Elvie Rodstedd (vocal duets accompanied by Miss Yvonne Rees), and Misses Mina Chapman and Jean Robinson (sonata for violin and piano). Supper served by the committee brought the evening to a close.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Tuesday 16 May 1939, page 3

1941

Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Black entertained on Wednesday evening at their home in West Leederville, in honour of Miss Rona Wedgwood’s approaching marriage to Mr. Alec Black. The party took the form of a miscellaneous tea, and many attractive gifts were received. Competitions and games helped to pass the evening.

Among the guests were Mr. and Mrs. Tregoweth, Mr. and Mrs. Maschmedt, Mrs. Noel Pros-er; Misses Beryl Wedgwood, Lexie Wigmore, Kathleen Slapp, May Haigh, Gwen Gamble, Ottilie and Amanda Strempel, Tess McCaul, Edith Doel, Bid Bounsell, Amy Tunstall, Eileen Tregoweth, Freda Stevens, Messrs. John Townsend and Roy Collinson.

Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 – 1955), Sunday 18 May 1941, page 18

Evening of Music.

MEMBERS of the W.A. Music Teachers’ Association and many friends met last Saturday night at the Burt Memorial Hall and listened to a programme of music by local composers. The programme was arranged by Mr. Edward Black. The president, Mr. F. L. Robertson, with Mrs. Robertson, and the hon. secretary, Miss J. L. Young, received the guests. Mr. Edward Black gave an introductory paper on “The Guild of Australian Composers.” This was followed by songs by Mrs. Carroll, Paul Buddee, Edward Black, and Otto Kaye, sung by Miss Lorna McKean; four sketches for violin and cello, composed by Lazar Sverdloff were played by Madame Zlata Kalmikoff and the composer; song by Miss Lorna Ford. sung by Miss Boesser; songs by Roy Wood, sung by Mr. Frank Robertson: piano solos by Alec and Edward Black played by Edward Black; and songs by Miss Florence Hcdd. sung by Miss Gertrude Hutton. At the conclusion of the music supper was served on tables gay with yellow and orange tinted flowers.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Wednesday 2 July 1941, page 8

Music Club Entertains. Members of the Royal Schools Music Club entertained last Saturday evening at the Karrakatta Club hall. The president (Mrs. Cecil Mason), who received the guests, wore a black satin figured skirt with white satin bodice and coral accessories. The programme was arranged by Miss Marjorie Wyndham and assisting artists included Mr. and Mrs. Alec Black (violin and piano), Myrel Frape (songs accompanied by Marjorie Wyndham), Joyce Glasson (piano) and Lottie Dean (songs, accompanied by Mr. Dean). Misses Joyce Marshall and Mina Chapman were the winners of a competition arranged by Marjorie Wyndham.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Thursday 14 August 1941, page 3

1950

Thursday, Oct. 5^th – Capitol Theatre at 8pm – 1950’s GREATEST MUSICAL SHOW

Bruce Carroll presents – Symphony In Swing

With Harry Bluck’s Concert Orchestra and Dance Band, Over 50 Leading Musicians and Radio Artists, Wendy Nash — 12-year-old Virtuoso Pianiste, Jack Harrison — Clarinet Star of the West, Ossie Sanderson — 16-year old ‘London Fantasia’ Soloist, Phyllis Frost — International Broadcasting Vocaliste, Ronald Pollastrini — W.A.’s Outstanding Lyric Tenor, Tritoff’s Trio — First appearance of Radio Vocal Trio, Kath Bass — Star Rhythm Vocaliste, Alan Golding — Leading Exponent of Hammond Electric Organ, Peter Clinch trio — Wizards of Swing, Dave Howard — and His Golden Voiced Saxophone (By Courtesy A. B.C.), Keith Connolly — Sophisticated Humorist, Laurie Croissette — Tho ‘Different’ Western Entertainer ,Symphony and Swing Club’s Entertainment Unit with West Coast Dixielanders — State’s smartest Jazz Ensemble, John Todd — 14-year-old Star Piano Accordionist, Rhythm Spinners — State’s leading Male Modern Vocal Group, Robyn Harwood — Boogie Woogie Specialiste, Beverly Beckwith — Co-Compere of S. and S. Club Group. Compere: Geoff Manion. Stage Production: Dave Howard By Courtesy A. B.C. PRICES : 3/- 4/- 5/- (plus tax). Box Plan at Nicholsons Limited. The Daily News Monday 25 September 1950 page 12

October 5 1950 Symphony In Swing

On October 5, a concert entitled “Symphony in Swing” will be presented in the Capitol Theatre. Produced by Harry Bluck, whose concert orchestra and dance band will give a number of items, the programme will include varied numbers by local artists, many of whom are under 20 years of age. The 12-year-old pianist, Wendy Nash, will give a classical group, Jack Harrison, the young clarinettist will give the first West Australian performance of a number entitled “Clarinet a la King,” and the 16-year-old pianist Ossie Sanderson, will present “London Fantasia.” Other artists will be Ronald Pollastrini, tenor, and a new vocal group, the Tritoffs, who will be making their first public appearance. They will be associated with Phyllis Frost, the blind vocalist. There will be many other singers and instrumentalists. Western Mail Thursday 28 September 1950 page 23

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

1967

Alec played in the viola section of WASO for over 40 years up until at least 1976.

Alec died in December 2000 aged 88.

Alec Black obituary: The West Australian by Neville Cohn

Instruments

Years

1936

Person

CALLAWAY, Professor Sir Frank

The youngest of the four children of Archibald Charles Callaway, an electrical engineer, Frank Adams Callaway was born in Timaru, New Zealand, on 16 May 1919.

When war broke out he enlisted for overseas service. He was rejected because of his poor eyesight, but the Royal New Zealand Air Force recognised his musical potential – he joined its Central Band as a bassoonist and arranger.

The Pied Piper Towards the end of his long life, his colleagues at the International Society for Music Education had this to say about Sir Frank Callaway: ‘It is probably true that Sir Frank Callaway must know, and be known by, more people in music education throughout the world than anyone else. The list of countries he has visited is staggering: at a modest estimate he must have covered well over a million miles – a feat which these days is only surpassed by astronauts. His vision for music education in its broadest sense is respected internationally.

It is unlikely that anyone else has devoted as much time and energy to the cause of music education and given such support and encouragement to musicians, music educators, composers and many others, as Sir Frank Callaway. His generosity of spirit and his seemingly endless vitality – despite his age – is still an inspiration to music educators regardless of the sphere in which they work or the generation to which they belong.’

The youngest of the four children of Archibald Charles Callaway, an electrical engineer, Frank Adams Callaway was born in Timaru, New Zealand, on 16 May 1919. His uncle, Sidney Callaway, played cricket for Australia in the 1890s, and passed on his passion for the game to young Frank, but it was music that the boy loved best. His parents had him taught the violin.

‘As a child, I simply loved being involved in music-making’, he recalled, ‘and after first experiencing the thrill of music-making as leader of an early children’s orchestra, this sort of activity became central to my life.’

Because of the depression, Callaway left school when he was 15. He started his working life with a firm of commercial stationers, eventually becoming a travelling salesman. Evening studies at Christchurch Technical College led to Otago University at Dunedin, where he set his sights on a Bachelor of Commerce degree. In 1939 he abandoned this and entered the Dunedin Teachers’ Training College. When war broke out he enlisted for overseas service. He was rejected because of his poor eyesight, but the Royal New Zealand Air Force recognised his musical potential – he joined its Central Band as a bassoonist and arranger.

In 1942 the Air Force gave Callaway leave so that he could succeed the inspirational Vernon Griffiths as Head of Music at King Edward Technical College in Dunedin. At the same time, Callaway played viola and bassoon in the New Zealand Broadcasting Services’ Orchestra, and continued his music studies music part-time at the University of Otago. He eventually gained his Bachelor of Music degree, plus sundry prizes, including the Phillip Neil Prize for New Zealand composers. In 1947 the university’s Fanny Evans Travelling Scholarship financed his trip to London – but the funds would not stretch to allow Callaway to take his young wife, the brilliant pianist Kathleen Allan.

At the Royal Academy of Music he studied conducting, general musicianship and composition, forwhich he won the Battiston Haynes and Cuthbert Nunn prizes. A Carnegie Travel Grant enabled him to explore music education in the United States, where he met people who shared and shaped his international vision for music education. In 1949 he resumed his work with King Edward Technical College, and also directed a regular series of orchestral concerts and large scale music festivals in Dunedin.

In 1953 Callaway accepted the post of Reader in Music within the Faculty of Education at the University of Western Australia. Six years later he became the university’s Foundation Professor of Music.

Starting with a staff of one (himself), a desk, an upright piano, and a small pile of music, Callaway built up a thriving Department of Music. When he retired at the end of 1984, he was farewelled by 14 full-time staff-members and a large team of part-time teachers. On the way he had developed what is widely regarded as Australia’s finest Music Library – the Wigmore.

Outside his university commitments, Callaway had created and edited Australia’s leading musicological journal, Studies in Music, and other scholarly publications. In association with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra he had organised a series of Composers’ Workshops that attracted many young forward-looking composers.

He had been appointed by the prime minister to serve with Bernard Heinze and John Hopkins on the first Advisory Board of the Commonwealth Assistance to Australian Composers scheme, organising national seminars and workshops for young composers. He had been the foundation president of the Australian Society for Music Education, and had edited its journal. He had served for many years on the Festival of Perth committee.

For a quarter of a century he had conducted the University Choral Society, making it one of Australia’s finest large choirs. He led it in many memorable performances with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and visiting soloists, and he had been guest conductor for ABC orchestras in Western Australia and other states. In 1979 and 1984 he was organising chairman of the Indian Ocean Arts Festival in Perth.

Internationally, Callaway had been a member of the International Society for Music Education since it was founded in 1953 by many of the people he had met on his visit to the United States in 1949. He was its president from 1968 to 1972, then its treasurer and, in 1988, was elected honorary president, succeeding the celebrated composers Zoltán Kodály and Dimitri Kabelevsky. He was also founding editor of its journal.

As a member of the Australian Commission for UNESCO, Callaway represented Australia on the International Music Council; in 1980 he followed violinist Yehudi Menuhin as its president, establishing a close and lasting friendship with him. He was elected a life member in 1985. His UNESCO work took him to General Assemblies and Congresses in Moscow, Lausanne, Toronto, Montreal, Bratislava, Prague, Melbourne, Budapest, Stockholm and Dresden. In 1995 he received the UNESCO Medal, which rewards musicians who have contributed to the enrichment and development of music and who have promoted peace and understanding between peoples.

Other recipients have included Yehudi Menuhin and Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich and Indian musician Ravi Shankar. At the time, Callaway was only the second person to be awarded this prize for music education (the other was Nadia Boulanger, in 1979). The organisation’s director-general hailed Callaway as ‘one of the great pioneers and ambassadors of music education in our time’.

Callaway was the dedicatee for Australian composer Peter Sculthorpe’s short orchestral piece Sun Song (1984), and for Dmitri Kabalevsky’s Fanfare for Brass Ensemble. Incredibly, in so full a life, Callaway found time to indulge his passions for gardening, and, all too rarely, composing. His Theme and Diversions for Strings, Theme and Variations for Strings and Prelude and Fugue for Violin and Organ won awards and were publicly performed, but in his later years Callaway preferred to forget them.

Callaway retired from the University of Western Australia in 1984. In his honour the university established the Frank Callaway Foundation for Music, with contributions from Callaway’s friends and admirers. The foundation supports musical activities at the university and works to enhance the strong community and professional associations of the School of Music. Its patrons include Lord Menuhin, Sir Charles Court and Janet Holmes a Court.

The foundation organises the annual Callaway Lecture and stimulates music and music education in Australia and internationally through the non-commercial and co-operative Callaway Centre for Research in Music and Music Education. The centre houses a number of significant collections including those of Callaway himself (including a number of autographed letters and scores by composers such as Liszt, Elgar and Delius), ethnomusicologist John Blacking, Percy Grainger (whom Callaway met during his first overseas study tour and whose ideas on music’s universality impressed him deeply), conductor Verdon Williams, pianist Eileen Joyce (a personal friend of Callaway’s), and music historian Peter Burgis. The Burgis Collection includes significant holdings of Dame Nellie Melba and Peter Dawson memorabilia.

Many of Callaway’s former students and colleagues participated in a joyous gala concert in the Perth Concert Hall on 16 May 1999 to celebrate their mentor’s 80th birthday. After a long period of ill health, Sir Frank Adams Callaway died in Perth on 22 February 2003. He was survived by his wife, Kathleen, who had accompanied him to many overseas conferences, and had a notable career of her own: she was an acclaimed pianist and harpsichordist, and a fine accompanist, particularly for lieder. She was active for many years in concerts and radio broadcasts.

Frank Van Straten, 2007

https://liveperformance.com.au/hof-profile/frank-callaway-cmg-ao-obe-1919-2003/

https://collected.uwa.edu.au/nodes/view/909

Instruments

Years

1919

Person

DEAN, John

John Theodore Dean was born in 1934 to 30 year old Horace and 22 year old Rhona Hope Dean (nee Fancote).

As a young girl, in order to attend Sunday School at Saint Patrick’s Anglican Church in Mt Lawley, Marcia Chayter had to walk past the house of Horace, Rhona, John and Michael Dean at 29 Rookwood Street, Mt Lawley. Forty years, later her son would marry John’s daughter.

Horace Dean was a violinist and viola player in the Perth Symphony Orchestra and a highly respected performer and educator in Perth’s music circles. His son John followed in his footsteps.

1947 – aged 13

MUSIC AND ART OF SPEECH Exhibition And Diploma Winners Exhibitions were awarded at the September-November examinations in music and the art of speech conducted by the University of W.A. under the auspices of the Australian Music Examinations Board, as follows: Violin: Grade II, John Theodore Dean.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Tuesday 16 December 1947, page 14

1950

This year the Kylie Music Club is meeting on the first Saturday of each month in the Women’s Service Guild hall. Because, however, there is a Musica Viva concert next Saturday, the Kylie May meeting has been advanced to this evening. The first half of the programme will be presented by young artists in John Dean and Bruce Shute (violin and piano), Pearl White (soprano), Betty Wright (piano) and Donald Cartwright (oboe). The concluding work will be a Brahms Sonata played by Vaughan Hanly and Marshall Sumner.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 29 April 1950, page 21

MUSIC EXAM AWARDS Successful Students Announced The list of awards approved by the University senate in connection with the music examinations held by the Australian Music Examinations Board in September were released yesterday. VIOLIN. Seventh Grade: John Dean.

West Australian (Perth, WA), Wednesday 20 December 1950, page 14

1951

Awards In The Music Board Exams Awards made in connection with examinations held by the Australian Music Examinations Board have been announced by the University of W.A. Violin: JOHN THEODORE DEAN.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 22 December 1951, page 14

1952

FANCOTE — FORBES A very lovely wedding was solemnised at St. George’s Cathedral, Perth, on Saturday, May 31, between Frederick George, son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Fancote, and June Francis, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. Forbes, both of Brookton. The officiating clergyman was the Very Rev. Dean Berivick of Perth. The bride was” beautifully gowned in white”- Chantilly lace over white satin, made with a fitting bodice, medicea collar, a very full skirt falling into a beautiful train, the “frock and train were edged all round with the natural scallops of the lace. Her three-tiered fingertip raw cut tulle veil was held in place by a halo of orange blossom. She carried a trailer of white carnations, gladioli, gerbera roses and bridal marguerite. The bride was attended by her sister, Miss Heather Forbes, in lemon, and her cousin, Miss Fay Nicholas, in blue. The bridesmaids wore lovely frocks of nylon lace and spotted tulle, made with bouffant skirts, allied to fitting bodices and fitting lace boleros with dovetail collars. They carried trailers of roses, asters and gerbera in pastel shades with matching posies in their little lace dutch caps. The bridegroom’s presents to the bridesmaids were diamante bracelets. The bride and bridesmaid’s frocks were made by Mrs. H. Grigo, an old friend of the family and former wardrobe mistress of the Tivoli Theatre, Perth. Mr. Frank Cox was best man and Mr. Phillip Cockcroft, the groomsman. The bride’s mother, assisted by the mother of the groom, received 120 guests to a buffet breakfast at Tintern Lodge, followed by a reception and dancing. During the evening Mr. Horace Dean and his son, John (both A.B.C. artists), favoured the guests with violin duets. The bride’s mother chose a crepe frock of beige’ grey colouring with a matching jacket, a junior navy hat and navy accessories and wore a shoulder spray of red roses. The bridegroom’s mother wore a lavender frock of light wool, lavender Velvet hat and grey accessories and chose a shoulder spray of gold roses. The three-tiered cake was made by the bridegroom’s mother and iced by Mrs. Frank White, of Brookton. The bride, for her going away outfit, chose a lovely pale blue suit trimmed with pearl buttons, a matching blue” hat and burgundy accessories.

Pingelly-Brookton Leader (WA : 1925 – 1954), Wednesday 11 June 1952, page 3

The W.A. Musical Festival will end today. There will be no prize winners’ concert as in former years. This afternoon will be devoted to the finals of all the under-age sections up to 17 years, at the Perth Town Hall, Then, in the Burt Hall at 7.30, will bp contested the finals of the open piano and-violin sections, the champion ladies’ and men’s vocal solos, under18 piano and piano duets. A musical entertainment is included in today’s closing programme for the Arts Festival at the University. Beginning at 7.30 p.m. in Winthrop Hall, John Dean and Donald Thornton will play one of Beethoven’s violin sonatas, the Madrigal Singers will present medieval songs and madrigals, and Mr. Thornton will play Ravel’s Sonatine.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 12 July 1952, page 15

FOUR WHO WON AT THE W.A. MUSIC FESTIVAL

Some of those who won the finals of their respective divisions when the West Australian Music Festival continued at the Burt Memorial Hall in Perth on Saturday night are shown above during their recitals. They are, from left to right: Mr. John Dean, winner of the open violin solo, Miss Brenda Howarth, winner of the ladies’ championship solo. Mr. R. E. Moran, winner of the open men’s championship solo, and Miss Janette Williams, winner of the open piano solo.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Monday 14 July 1952, page 2

Women Excel In Champion Solos The singing heard in the women’s championship solo competition was superior to that of the men in their championship at the concluding session of the W.A. Musical Festival in the Burt Hall on Saturday night. This comment was made by the adjudicator Mr. Lindley Evans) in declaring Brenda Howarth the champion woman soloist, with Patricia Wyatt second The winner’s voice was an attractive soprano and her singing was intelligent and musical. Mr. Evans said. Romney Moran won the men’s solo championship. His baritone voice was described by the adjudicator as pleasant, and his performance as thoughtful, with accurate intonation. George Idle was second.

Much interest was aroused by the appearance of an eight year-old competitor in the open violin solo final. He was Geoffrey Michaels, whose playing has recently been praised to a degree that suggests a prodigy. Great Talent Regarding young Michaels, Mr. Evans said: “This was quite a remarkable exhibition for so young a player, being fluent and in time. This is, of course, very great talent, which should be very carefully nursed.”

Mr. Evans awarded the first prize to John Dean, whose playing he described as clear and careful, with fluent technique and true intonation. Geoffrey Michaels was second. The open piano solo was won by Janette Williams, whose playing of an “awkward” test piece was artistic and correct, Mr. Evans said.Roberta Manjon, whose tone and technique were declared to be satisfactory, won the piano solo (over 15 and under 18). Alan Speer was second. David Black and Alan Speer were first in the piano duet (under 18), with Adrienne Sinclair and Leslie Paterson second. Reviewing the festival, Mr. Evans said that the school choirs had been the outstanding feature, their singing having been exceptionally good. In the juvenile instrumental sections there had been much evidence of good teaching.

Following were the results of the juvenile sections- which were heard in the Perth Town Hall on Saturday afternoon. PIANO.–(Under 10): Maree Riddett, I; Roslyn Lang, 2. Solo (over 9, under 12): Barry Palmer and Susanne Maslen, dead heat, 1; Elsie Ottaway 2. Solo (over 12, under 14): Barbara Robinson, 1; Wendy Briggs, 2. Duet (under 13): Athena Hansen and Christine Hill, 1; Margaret Gallash and Barbara Carter 2. Solo (over 11, under 13): Pamela Goldsworthy and Donald McCully, dead heat, 1; Leslie Willcock, 2. Solo (over 13, under 16): Gwenyfred Zengheer-Herrmann, 1; Lynette Friere and Murray Burge, dead heat, 2. Duet (under 15): Helen Rudderham and Barbara Robinson 1: Elsie Ottaway and Rosalind Wasley, 2. VIOLN.–Solo (under 13): Brian Hanly, 1; Ashley Arbuckle, 2. Solo (under 15): Robert Ingram, 1; Ronald Thomas, 2. Solo (under 17): Pauline Thompson, 1; Norma Miller, 2. VOCAL.–Girls. Solo (under 16): Roberta Combs, 1; Natalie Sargent, 2. Boys. Solo: Barry Friere, 1; James Roger, 2.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Monday 14 July 1952, page 5

The programme to be given in Wesley Church on Tuesday evening by the Perth Philharmonic Society to assist the fund being raised to enable the local contralto Nancy Ellis to proceed to the United States for further study, will include a tribute to Dr. R. Vaughan Williams, who tomorrow celebrates his 80th birthday. It will take the form of a composition of his published in 1950, a Fantasia (Quasi Variazone) on the Old 104th psalm tune, for piano solo accompanied by chorus and orchestra (in this case, the organ). Nancy Ellis herself will contribute a group of songs and John Dean will play violin solos.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 11 October 1952, page 17

MUSICIANS AID FUND FOR SINGER (By P.K.). Songs by Nancy Ellis were the highlight of a concert which was held last night in Wesley Church in aid of a fund to send her abroad for further study. Her first song, “My Soul Rejoices” was a little unsteady and lacked the easy serenity that Bach’s songs demand. The Brahms item, however. contained much beauty and gave scope to the singer’s warm and vibrant tone. With closer attention to phrasing, dynamics and other musical “finishings” Miss Ellis should more than fulfill the expectations of those sponsoring the fund. A first Perth performance of Dr. Vaughan Williams’s Fantasia on the old 104th Psalm tune was the second feature of the programme. This work is a sequence of alternate piano and choral episodes-and the combination is not perhaps a very satisfying one. In this work and in the rest of the programme the Perth Philharmonic Society gave us some nicely balanced work. John Dean’s violin solos Bach’s “Arioso” and the ever popular “Ave Maria” had an extremely musical quality.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Wednesday 15 October 1952, page 6

University Awards.

In Music The following awards have been announced in connection with examinations in this State, held by the Australian Music Examinations Board: W.A. Music Scholarship and Violin medal: John DEAN (honours in seventh grade violin).

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Saturday 27 December 1952, page 7

1954

A delightful chamber-music evening in her home was arranged by Dr. and Mrs. E. W. Arndt of Nedlands. Well known young artists of Perth contributed, including Dr. and Mrs. Arndt’s daughter Louise, who has completed two years’ violin study in. Amsterdam and is now a pupil at the Melbourne Conservatorium. Louise is returning to Melbourne this week after spending her vacation at home. Shown in the picture are nine-year-old GEOFFREY MICHAELS of Claremont, tuning his violin, for the third movement of the Mendelssohn concerto; MONICA WEINMAN of Claremont, and DAWN BALDWIN of City Beach. Other artists who participated were John and Michael Dean and Keith Middleton.

Western Mail (Perth, WA : 1885 – 1954), Thursday 21 January 1954, page 18

MELBOURNE

FESTIVAL HIGHLY PRAISED Warmly praising ‘Dandenong’s Festival, Mr. Williams said that there might be larger competitions and a lot with bigger prizes, but he felt that this was one that was doing more than any other, because they were giving the opportunities to youth, and they were assisting them in the form of Scholarships to advance their training. That was something he had been trying to get the bigger competitions to adopt. ‘ln this Festival you have something that is a rare thing,” he added. “Tonight every seat in this hall should have been full. You should support this Festival. Believe me it is worth it. This is a great civic effort and something Dandenong should be proud of.” Mr. Williams went on to make a number of helpful suggestions. Cr. Keith Terry, ‘president of the Festival Committee, then presented the Scholarships, Plaques and certificates.

Plaques for the outstanding performers in the several sections went to: John Dean (Violin)

Dandenong Journal (Vic. : 1927 – 1954), Wednesday 12 May 1954, page 3

Dandenong Festival of Music and Art last night. prizewinners at the festival included:— Dandenong Festival Violin Scholarship.—John Dean, St. Kilda.

Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic.), Saturday 8 May 1954, page 14

Fine work by choir

The madrigal singing of the Oriana madrigal choir, directed by Leonard Fullard, is one of the most enjoyable musical experiences Melbourne can offer. At the Assembly Hall last night the work of the choir in music by Wilbye, Weelkes, Pilkington, Richard Carlton, Robert Jones, Byrd, and Purcell was no hit-and-miss affair. The singers kept their eyes on the conductor, the pitch was almost unfailingly ac-curate, and the tone un-forced and well-balanced. Such good results, all too rare amongst our smaller musical groups, can only come as the result of really thorough and intelligent rehearsal, and deserve the highest praise. In a Bach cantata, de-spite some good singing by Betty Fairbank, the performance sank to the more familiar level of the potentially valuable. Handel’s wonderful sonata in D major for violin and continue, played by John Dean and Maryjean Officer, completed the programme. DORIAN LE GALLIENNE.

Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 6 November 1954, page 10

1957

In 1957, Horace Dean, a member of the first violins during the earlier years (1942 – 69) of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, had the pleasure of having his son john playing with him in the violin section of the orchestra. When a permanent position became available in the viola section, John moved to that instrument moving to the Principal chair several years later. John’s studies at the Melbourne University Conservatorium had been interrupted due to compulsory national service.

Harrison, Marcia. West Australian Symphony Orchestra Celebrating 75 Years. WASO Holdings Pty Ltd, 2003. Page 57.

1958

TALENTED ARTISTS TO VISIT YORK

An all star cast of leading Commonwealth and State artists will give a Concert in the York Town Hall on Saturday, 30th August. The occasion is the one hundred and sixth Anniversary of the York Methodist Church. Geoffrey Michaels, the fourteen year old violin prodigy, who last month, playing with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, won the A.B.C’s Commonwealth Concerto Competition will be featured. Miss Patricia Connop who was last year’s winner and is at the present the star of the “Mikado” now playing at the Capitol Theatre, together with George Idle who plays opposite her in the same show, will be among vocalists. Miss Dianne Hosking, one of Perth’s leading actresses, will present speech items and John Dean and Bob Ingram, of the Perth Symphony Orchestra, will contribute instrumental items. Miss Margo Robertson, a West Australian finalist of Mobil Quest and Mr Ian Conochie, a leading base soloist in the “Messiah”, will also be vocalists. Duo-pianists of State fame who will perform are Josephine McKimmie and Michael Bartram; Wendy Prosser and Alan Speer. This is the finest line up of talent this State and York has enjoyed for such moderate charges. To make the evening a social success fitting for the occasion supper will be served the admission fee of six shillings will cover this. To obtain a good seat it is advisable to book at Efford’s Pharmacy, Beverley.

Beverley Times (WA : 1905 – 1977), Friday 22 August 1958, page 4

1959

In 1959, John married soprano Margot Robertson.

Oriel String Quartet: Graham Wood, Ashley Arbuckle, Brian Meddemmen, John Dean

1961

8pm Sat 5^th August 1961 – FESTIVAL CONCERT TONIGHT – WINTHROP HALL

World Premiere of David Farquhar’s prize winning Concertino for Piano and Orchestra. First Performance in Australia – Chamber Concerto No. 3 for Bassoon, Strings and Percussion by Elisabeth Lutyens. David Tunley’s Introduction and Scherzo for Clarinet and Strings. Plus works by Dvorak, Grieg, Delius, Elgar, Walton and others. UNIVERSITY ORCHESTRA conducted by Trevor Jones. Soloists: Michael Cole, Jack Harrison, Brian Pope. Assisting Artists: John Mowson, John Dean, Verdon Williams. Unreserved seats at door 10/ Students 7/6.

The West Australian Saturday July 15 1961

1963 WASO Geraldton tour dining train: John Dean (left) and father Horace (right)

1966

MAY 1966 – MUSIC LOVER’S DIARY

The fourth programme in the A.B.C.’s free recitals in the Basil Kirke Studio this year will be held at 3pm tomorrow. Jack Harrison, Graham Wood, John Dean, Brian Meddemmen and Stephen Dornan will perform trios by Mozart and Shostakovich.

1967

September 24 1967 – MUSIC – By Peter Hellstrom

There will be an all Beethoven programme at tomorrow afternoon’s recital at the A.B.C. Basil Kirke Studio beginning at 3 o’clock. It will consist of the Septet in E flat and the Serenade in D. Op.8. The performers will be Graham Wood (violin), John Dean (viola), Brian Meddemmen (cello), John Mowson (bass), Jack Harrison (clarinet), Neil Pierson (French horn) and Jill Harrison (bassoon).

1968

Sunday February 29 1968 – FEW HEAR FINE RECITAL – By Sally Trethowan

Fewer than 30 people attended yesterday’s free Sunday afternoon recital in the Basil Kirke Memorial Studio to hear what must have been one of the finest given this year by Perth artists. The oboe playing of Peter Randall in Mozart’s Quartet for oboe and strings was so good that an unchartered listener might’ve thought it was a simple piece. Mr. Randall gave such purity and accuracy to the naturally sharp clear tone of the oboe as to make even the accompanying strings in this piece seem cloudy in effect. It was duly wistful in the doleful minor keyed slow movement and cheerful in the finale where the virtuosic double-tongued passages were given within incisiveness, clarity and extreme rapidity. Violinist Graham Wood led seven other instrumentalists Stanislaw Kowarski (violin) John Dean (Viola) Brian Meddemmen (cello) John Mowson (bass) Patrick Brislan (Horn) Jack Harrison (clarinet) and Jill Harrison (bassoon) in the four movement Octet for Wind and Strings by the modern English composer Howard Ferguson. Mr. Ferguson seems to have a particular affection for clarinet and horn, and the success of the performance to some extent pivoted on Patrick Brislan’s horn playing which allowed no imperfection of tone to mar its richness. The program ended with a reduced version of Richard Strauss’s tone poem “Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks”. Originally scored for an orchestra of Wagnerian proportions of over 100 players, it was here rendered by five. Though without the percussion and heavy brass that in the full score are so graphic in describing the grotesque adventures of the mediaeval vagabond Till, it was a happy even witty performance. The final concert in the free Sunday afternoon series will be given in a fortnight.

1969 WA Music Camp, Scotch College – John Dean second row, 6th from the left.

1972 – LONDON

In 1972 John studied in Britain with Cecil Aronowitz. During this time he joined fellow Australians Ronald Thomas and Brenda Cullity as members of the English Chamber Orchestra.

1973 Coupled with Ashley Arbuckle, John was soloist with the orchestra in 1973.

1977

John was presented with medal for over 20 years service with the A.B.C.

1979

23^rd April 1979 – Chamber Group off to a Good Start – By Derek Moore Morgan

The recently formed Wigmore Ensemble made its first public appearance last night with a delightfully varied program at the Octagon Theatre. A flexible group with no fixed numbers, it has the practical advantage of being able to present music of widely different genres some of which inevitably gets left on the shelf because it doesn’t quite fit a specific mould such as the string quartet or Trio. This was a University of W.A. music Society recital. The performers were Graham Wood and Ashley Arbuckle (violins), John Dean (viola), Jill Cole (cello), Neil Fisenden (flute), Jack Harrison (clarinet) and Anthony Maydwell (harp). The final item, Ravel’s atmospheric and beautifully crafted “Introduction and Allegro” brought all the players together to produce a nice degree of sonority and delicacy capturing much of the subtlety of the masterpiece. Starting with the Mozart Quartet for Flute and Strings in D major a mellifluous example of the composer’s earliest style, the players gave us a bright indication of the bubbling and effervescent Gatty of the Rondo finale. The British composer Frank Bridge, himself a viola player, wrote a whole body of telling string music. His little known Trio (Rhapsody) from 1928 proved to be a forward looking piece for the difficult unless usual combination of two violins and viola, with mysterious opening and closing sections surrounding an energetic central portion. The Italian composer Malpiero’s “Sonata a cinque” (1936) is an appealing piece of writing which hangs on the air like a haunting elergy. Anthony Maydwell’s expressive harp playing came to the fore here. The Quartet for clarinet and strings by Rawsthorne is another piece of chamber music which is deftly written and manipulates varying moods. Jack Harrison’s neatly inflected clarinet tone was well handled.

Sacks, Margaret. The Way 79 Who is Who. Crawley Publishers Pty Ltd, 1979.

1979 WASO with Measham: Joan Wright, Dave Ellis (basses) Les Crockford, Marion Bonds, John Dean (violas) Aino Neumann (bass). ABC Basil Kirke Studio.

1985

Sunday July 21 1985 – Perth Chamber Soloists – UWA Music Auditorium

Robert Cooper and Neil Barclay (violins), John Dean (viola) and Jill Cole (cello). Guest artist Jack Harrison (clarinet) performing Quintet for Clarinet and String Quartet (Bliss).

2024 OBITUARY

John Dean was the longest-serving principal viola in the Western Australian Symphony Orchestra’s history from 1970 to 1989

John Dean, a former long-standing member of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO) died on 6 August 2024, aged 90. Dean was a member of WASO for 33 years and was the longest-serving principal viola in the orchestra’s history.

Dean began studying the violin at the age of six with his father, Horace Dean, who was a WASO violinist from 1942 to 1969. In 1952, after studying with Vaughan Hanly, he was awarded an Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) Scholarship to the Melbourne Music Conservatorium, where he studied with Boris Stupel.

In 1956, he returned to Perth to explore employment opportunities. Upon a viola position becoming vacant in WASO, he learnt alto clef and passed the audition.

He served as principal viola from 1970 to 1989, becoming the longest serving musician in that position in WASO’s history.

He was honoured by WASO with the title of emeritus musician for his 33 years of service to the orchestra.

Dean pursued further studies in London with Cecil Aronowitz in the early 1970s and became a member of the Mozart Players, the English Sinfonia and the Philharmonic Orchestra.

After returning to Perth, he joined the Oriel Quartet, the first West Australian group to tour the Eastern States for Musica Viva. He was also a founding member of the Perth Chamber Soloists, and the Australian String Teachers’ Association (AUSTA) – which annually supports the AMEB’s John Dean Award for Best 7th/8th Grade Strings Candidate.

As an educator, he held a ten-year teaching engagement at Perth Modern School and taught in Bunbury, as well as theory at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). He tutored for the University of Western Australia’s (UWA) Saturday morning music programme, as well as at local music camps and working as an AMEB examiner.

His work in the community saw him travel to perform in regional communities, giving recitals for UWA, and playing for ABC broadcasts. Dean appeared as a soloist with WASO on several occasions, including a performance of Berlioz’s Harold in Italy.

Dean is survived by his three children and wife, soprano Margot Robertson.

https://www.thestrad.com/news/australian-principal-violist-john-dean-has-died-aged-90/18458.article

Instruments

Viola
Violin

Years

1934