George Coleman, Principal Viola of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra for a considerable number of years, had commenced his career travelling with the Ballet Rambert. On an invitation from Eugene Goosens, he played viola with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, then joined the WASO in 1951.
Harrison, Marcia, West Australian Symphony Orchestra Celebrating 75 Years, (WASO Holdings Pty Ltd, 2003), p.29.
In 1960 aged 48 he married pianist Stephanie James. He retired from WASO in 1968.
George Coleman taught violin and viola to generations of young musicians in Western Australia. Many of his former students have gone on to achieve successful professional music careers, both locally and internationally.
George William Coleman died on the 20th September 2000 aged 88.