Person

MCKEAN, Lorna

Lorna Crawford McKean (1914-1963), soprano, was born on 13 August 1914 at Arncliffe, Sydney, youngest of three daughters of native-born parents Robert Crawford McKean, schoolteacher, and his wife Jane, née McManus. Lorna received early piano tuition from her mother and formal education at Bexley Public, Cleveland Street Intermediate High and St George Girls’ High schools. She left school to concentrate on full-time piano studies with Elizabeth Coleman and singing lessons with Ruth Ladd.

A talented actress who performed at (Dame) Doris Fitton‘s Independent Theatre, McKean loved music. She studied singing at the New South Wales State Conservatorium of Music, giving lieder recitals and performing operatic roles such as Pamina in Mozart’s The Magic Flute and Eurydice in Gluck’s Orpheus and Eurydice. McKean was awarded a Layman Martin Harrison scholarship, and in 1936 gained teacher’s and performer’s diplomas in singing. Shortly afterwards she accepted an invitation to join the Australian Broadcasting Commission’s wireless chorus, conducted by Joseph Post.

On 9 August 1938 at the district registrar’s office, Rockdale, Lorna married Leo Denis Vaughan Hanly, a 21-year-old violinist and a fellow student at the conservatorium; they were to have three children. Hanly had been assisting-artist during Richard Tauber’s Australian tour and the Taubers attended the wedding. The newlyweds completed a national broadcasting tour for the A.B.C. before settling in Perth, where Hanly was appointed (1939) leader of the A.B.C.’s local orchestra. His wife soon became active in music circles in the city. When World War II broke out she undertook extensive touring and concert work throughout the State to assist the war effort.

In 1948 Lorna McKean (as she continued to be known professionally) travelled to London with an introduction to the soprano Elisabeth Schumann. She auditioned successfully for the British Broadcasting Corporation and fulfilled a number of engagements, including radio recitals and public performances. In 1949 she returned to Western Australia. Her work in London had impressed (Sir) John Barbirolli, conductor of the Hallé Orchestra. In accepting an invitation to tour Australia for the A.B.C. in the summer of 1950-51, he stipulated two conditions: that the tour take place when the English cricket team was in Australia, and that she should appear as soloist in some of his concerts. Barbirolli’s tour established McKean in the front rank of Australian musicians.

She continued her singing career, tackling new compositions, adding to her repertoire, and introducing works by composers such as Claude Debussy, Paul Hindemith and Edgar Bainton to Perth audiences. During the 1950s and early 1960s McKean occupied a prominent position in Perth’s music world. Survived by her husband, daughter and one of her two sons, (violinist Brian Hanly) she died of a cerebral tumour on 26 October 1963 at Royal Perth Hospital and was cremated with Congregational forms. John Farnsworth Hall, the conductor of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, described her as ‘a superb artist who was deeply appreciated’.

Select Bibliography

  • Broadcaster, 24 Sept-1 Oct 1938, 29 July 1939, 27 Feb 1946.
  • West Australian, 19 Apr 1939, 2, 28 Oct 1963.
  • Sydney Morning Herald, 15 Jan 1951; family records (privately held).

Citation Details

Brian Pope, ‘McKean, Lorna Crawford (1914–1963)’, Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/mckean-lorna-crawford-10982, published online 1 January 2006, accessed online 28 October 2026.

Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954), Saturday 1 August 1936, page 12

1936

LORNA MCKEAN.

Miss Lorna McKean, pupil of Miss Ruth Ladd, will give a Leder recital at the Conservatorium Hall on Thursday August 13. The programme will include works by Schubert, Brahms. Schumann and Strauss, also groups of songs by French and English composers. The assisting artists will be Vaughan Hanly violinist, and Miss Muriel Edsall, accompanist.

Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954), Saturday 1 August 1936, page 12

1941

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 Hedd 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

1947

Monster Concert TONIGHT – 8.45 – CAPITOL 

Stanley Clarkson, Perth Symphony Orchestra, Ante Soljanic, Perth Highland Pipe Band, Sammy Sharp‘s Band, C.T.A. Choir, Betty Wright, Vaughan Hanly, Subiaco Brass Band, Henry Cochran, Radio Players, Lorna McKean, and “MISS RADIO”.

Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 – 1955), Sunday 17 August 1947, page 13

1951

Jack Harrison was second clarinet in the South Australian Symphony Orchestra for the following concerts:

THE AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING COMMISSION

THANKS ALL Symphony Orchestral and Celebrity Concert SUBSCRIBERS and PATRONS for their interest and support during the past year and in extending to them the Compliments of the Season also announces the

NEW YEAR’S CONCERT ATTRACTIONS

A NEW YEAR SYMPHONY EVENING

Thursday 18th January, 1951

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Conductor: HENRY KRIPS

Soloist: LORNA McKEAN (delightful Westralian soprano)

FIRST 1951 OPEN AIR CONCERT

Free Sunday Matinee

BOTANIC GARDEN, ADELAIDE

Sunday, January 28, 1951, 2.45 p.m.

Free to all — No charges — Everybody is invited.

Commonwealth Jubilee Celebrations

STATE CONCERT

organised and presented for the SOUTH AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT

CENTENNIAL HALL, WAYVILLE

Thursday, February 1, 1951, 8 p.m.

introducing

SIR JOHN BARBIROLLI

Eminent British Conductor of Halle Orchestra directing the

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Soloist: EVELYN ROTHWELL

Distinguished British Oboist

Under the distinguished patronage of HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR OF SA, SIR WILLOUGHBY NORRIE, LADY NORRIE and SUITE

A memorable musical event of interest to all South Australians.

FAREWELL APPEARANCE

SIR JOHN RARBIROLLI

CENTENNIAL HALL, WAYVILLE

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1951, 8 p.m.

South Australian Symphony Orchestra

Soloist: RAYMOND O’CONNELL Brilliant Australian Pianist

Preferential plans from Thursday January 11. Ordinary plans from Thursday, January 18.

Price 10/-, 7/6, 5/-, and 3/- (No tax). 

The Mail Adelaide Saturday 23 December 1950 page 28

MUSIC . . . . ART . . . THEATRE – Moderm Works For Symphony Concert

FIRST CONCERT Thursday 18 January 1951

By Harold Tideman

Modern orchestral works will be a feature oi the SA Symphony Orchestra’s first concert for the year in the Adelaide Town Hall on Thursday night.  Of particular interest to South Australians will be the first public performance here of Alex Burnard’s overture ‘L’Allegro.’ Conductor Henry Krips gave this work a successful airing in a recent broadcast. Based on Milton’s poem it is definitely in the modern idiom, cleverly orchestrated. Formerly of Adelaide, and now senior lecturer in Harmony and Composition at the NSW State Conservatorium of Music, Sydney, Dr. Burnard gained his Music degree at the Elder Conservatorium in 1927 and his Mus. Doc. in 1932. He studied with Dr. Ralph Vaughan Williams during a visit to England, and in 1935 gained five major awards in the ABC composers’ competition. Besides instrumental works, he has written a number of unusual songs, including settings of William Blake’s ‘Songs of Innocence’ for soprano and flute which were performed here in the Australian Music Festival last year.

First Time

Richard Strauss’s ‘Rosenkavalier’ Suite will also be played for the first time here by the orchestra. Those familiar with the opera (‘The Rose Cavalier’) know the peculiarities of Strauss’s orchestration and recognise that his work demands a pinnacle of orchestral playing. That the SA Orchestra is now able to cope with this field of music is a tribute in itself to the conductor and the personnel, and augers well for the future. Smetana’s symphonic poem ‘Ma Vlast’ (My Fatherland) will be one of the major works on Thursday’s programme. In this brilliantly orchestrated piece, the famous Czech composer traces the course of the River Moldau from its mountain source, through the noble city of Prague, to the sea. In more reflective vein will be Liszt’s symphonic poem, ‘Les Preludes,’ based on Lamartine’s ‘Meditations Poetiques,’ and lighted texture will be provided in the ‘Dance of the Tumblers’ from ‘The Snow Maiden’ by Rimsky-Korsakov which will conclude the evening and Henry Krip’s own transcriptions of ‘Clair de Lune’ and ‘Passepied’ from Debussy’s ‘Suite Bergamasque.’ Assisting artists will be Western Australian soprano, Lorna McKean, who will sing two famous operatic arias— ‘Si, michiamano Mimi,’ from ‘La Boheme’ (Puccini), and ‘Ah, fors e lui’ from ‘La Traviata’ (Verdi).

Barbirolli’s Visit

FEBRUARY 1 1951

Listeners to the broadcasts of the Barbirolli concerts from Sydney have been greatly impressed, and the famous conductor’s visit to Adelaide is being eagerly awaited. The two programmes arranged for here contain mostly solid and well tried fare which will make the task of both conductor and orchestra all the harder. For the State concert in the Centennial Hall on February 1, the orchestra will open with Berlioz’s ‘Carnaval Romaine’ Overture and the concerto for oboe and strings by Corelli (arranged by Barbirolli) will follow, Evelyn Rothwell being the soloist. Then comes Mozart’s ‘Jupiter’ symphony, and after the interval, the Brahms Symphony No. 1 in C minor.

FEBRUARY 7 1951

For the second concert on Feb. 7 in the same hall, the programme will be — -‘Egmont’ overture (Beethoven), Serenade for Strings (Elgar), Concerto in A minor for piano and orchestra (Schumann) with Raymond O’Connell soloist, and the Symphony No. 7 to C major (‘The Great’) by Schubert. 

The Advertiser Adelaide Saturday 13 January 1951 page 7

This Tuesday, June 12, a recital was given in the Town Hall to the children of Pingelly by Australian , soprano, Lorna McKean, and brilliant pianist, Stephen Dornan. The programme was one chosen especially for the children, the opening: song being “The Road to the Isles,” rendered delightfully by Miss McKean. A description of the song was given by Mr. Dornan to an appreciative audience. This was followed by a Maori song, “Waaata.Poi,” by the Australian composer, Alfred Hill. We were then entertained with the Military Prelude by Rachmaninoff with Stephen Dornan at the piano. Further vocal and pianoforte items were fully appreciated by the children present and it is hoped that we will receive many more entertainments of such a high calibre. At the beginning of this month the new typewriter arrived at the school, in time for the preparation of examination papers.

Pingelly-Brookton Leader (WA : 1925 – 1954), Thursday 14 June 1951, page 4

Jubilee Recital

Soprano, Lorna McKean and associate artist, pianist, Stephen Dornan presented a Jubilee recital in the Albany Town Hall last Friday, under the direction of the Adult Education Board. A programme of varied works was received by an enthusiastic, if rather sparse audience. Although bookings were filled for the dress circle, a number of seats in the hall remained vacant. One can easily imagine why Lorna McKean is popular with fellow artists and audiences. She sings with grace and charm. Miss McKean commenced the programme with two well known songs “My Mother Bids Me Bind My Hair” by Haydyn and “My Heart Ever Faithful” by Bach, sung with sympathy and sensitive expression. One of the most popular of Max Reger’s compositions, “The Virgin Slumber Song,” “A Dream,” by Grieg and a highly dramatic song “The Trout” by Schubert were executed with fin-The only operatic works included in the programme were “They Call Me Mimi” from La Boheme by Puccini, and “The Laughing Song” from der Fledermaus by Strauss. Miss McKean completely captivated her audience with her effervescent charm and her excellent interpretation of both. “The Laughing Song” was received with more than ordinary enthusiasm. In her five years’ absence from the musical scene of Albany, Miss McKean’s voice has developed from a lyric soprano, to a soprano with greater depth of tone, dramatic content and flexibility. Her interpretations of “They Call Me Mimi” and “The Laughing Song” were beautifully done, the first being most poignant and the second sung with joyous abandonment. . Finally, Miss McKean sang three delightful folk songs,

“The Road to the Isles,” “The Last Rose of Summer” and Peter Warlock’s arrangement of “One More River to Cross,” which had a very fine piano accompaniment. Stephen Dornan gave explanatory notes oji all the music performed, and to the listener, they were too long and definitely overdone. Tp an audience of school children this is most desirable, but for adults the explanations and story of musical architecture want to be drastically pruned. Mr. Dornan’s contribution to the recital was three fold. He did the talking, accompaniments and solo playing. His playing was noted for its fine technique, clarity of tone and rhythm content, but one feels that the aesthetic side was lost through the explanatory interruptions. Debussy’s soothing composition, “Clair de Lune” was presented in direct contrast with its companion, “Prelude in G Minor,” by Rachmaninoff: Dornan played this gripping military piece with vitality and understanding and a great deal of rhythmic quality. This Prelude is seldom heard at recitals and it possesses great rhythm and dramatic feeling. “Viennese Dances,” by Gaitner-Friedmann were delightful and entertaining, but his final presentation was easily the most popular on the programme. “The Ritual Fire Dance” by de Falla was played stirringly and with admirable understanding for the barbaric quality of the composition. Stephen Dornan’s rendering was his best on the programme. This young pianist wants to be careful that he does not let mannerism and habit at the keyboard detract from his musicianship.

Albany Advertiser (WA : 1897 – 1965), Monday 18 June 1951, page 8

Instruments

Years

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

1950 Symphony in Swing program cover

Thursday, Oct. 5th – 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

1950 Symphony in Swing program

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

1950 Symphony in Swing orchestra list

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

1956

COMPOSER IS PROVOCATIVE

February 21, 1956

By “Fidelio”

A West Australian composer, James Penberthy, offered us last night what in some ways the most adventurous Australian composition so far heard in the Art Gallery programmes.  This includes, notably, his medium of expression; a wind quintet consisting of flute, oboe, clarinet, horn and two bassoons.  For this unusual combination Mr Penberthy had produce a work in short, linked movements, based on the music and life of Australian aborigines.  He obtained interesting effects in the way of atmosphere and drastic colourings, but his score sounded very fragmentary.  It seemed often to be hovering uncertainly between outright imitative realism and the freer imaginative flight which, we felt, should not convincingly emerge.  Another unusual inclusion was a set of three nicely fanciful songs for soprano and flute (no piano) by John Gordon, the words being taken from Chinese.  The rest was chiefly light music, generally pretty in a conventional style.  There were two pieces for flute and piano by A.C. Black (a West Australian), clarinet and piano pieces by Dulcie Holland and Moneta Eagles, songs by Horace Keats and Elizabeth Mills.  The performers were Sylvia Biddle (soprano), Owen Fisenden (flute), Jack Harrison (clarinet), Neil Pierson (horn), Ron Richmond (oboe), George Dreyfus and Claude Welling (bassoons) and Phyllis Allen (accompanist). 

1967

1967 WASO viola section

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

Person

CAPORN, Sylvia

Sylvia Patricia Caporn was born in Claremont in 1915 to Sarah and Charles Caporn.

1936

Dance In Honor Of Young Couple

SOME 60 friends of Miss Phyllis Joyce and Mr. Robert Hagan gathered at the Carlton Club last Thursday evening to wish them happiness in their approaching marriage. Dancing was enjoyed, the music being supplied by Miss Sylvia Caporn and Mr. Ray Le Cornu. The guests of honour were presented with a handsome silver teapot.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Monday 20 July 1936, page 6

1937

MRS. RAYMOND H. LE CORNU . . . who, until her marriage this afternoon, was Miss Sylvia Caporn, of Claremont.

Titian Haired Bride In White Satin

White satin was the choice of the titian-haired bride at the wedding of Miss Sylvia Patricia Caporn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Caporn, to Mr. Raymond H. Le Cornu, only son of Mr. and Mrs. P. Le Cornu, of Bayswater, which was solemnised in the Methodist Church, Claremont, this afternoon. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a gown of white satin with a lily-leaf design at the neckline, wide shoulders, long tight sleeves coming to a point over the hands, and front and back panels. The back panel extended into a long train, edged with folded satin. Her tulle veil, which was worn over the face as she entered the church, was caught with a bunch of pearls, and reached to the edge of the train. She carried a small sheaf of white lilac. Old-World Gowns The bridesmaids, Misses Joy Caporn (the bride’s sister) and Myrtle Carlton, were frocked alike in old-world gowns of moon-glint stiffened net, with puffed sleeves and rosettes encircling the hems of the full skirts. Bonnet-shaped hats of net with trailing ribbons and un-usual bouquets of wheat and blue scabious completed their ensembles. The best man was Mr. Jack Cardigan, and the groomsman Mr. Ralph Walters. The Reception After the ceremony a reception was held in the Myola Club hall. Mrs. Caporn wore a gown of navy crepe and white georgette, and carried a bouquet of mixed roses. Mrs. Le Cornu was in pink, and also carried roses. Later Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Le Cornu left by car for their honey-moon, the bride travelling in a frock of rhythm blue crepe trimmed with stiff black net, and black straw hat and accessories.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Saturday 20 February 1937, page 13

CONCERT AT PRISON

Mrs Page Lennon presented the Pleasant Hour concert party in a varied programme to the inmates of the Fremantle Prison last Sunday. Those helping on this occasion were Mr. Ray Le Cornu (orchestra), Misses Jenny Deering, Ethel Crisp. Alma Crane, Vera Fletcher, Sylvia Caporn, Valda Gray, Edna Lancaster, Jean Kurts and Nellie Kershaw, Messrs. Jack Maloney, Wally Wandless, Harry Dorrington, Kay Norgard, Norm. Dunne, Harry Pender, Kay Le Cornie, Ron Alexander, Reg. Harte, George Brown and Jess Frankish. Thanks are due to Messrs. Gus Shulman, Arnold Kershaw, Norm Reid, Roy Saunders, Arthur Hoskins, Jack Maloney, Ray Langley and Laurence Brewer for driving the artists to and from the prison. The accompanists were Misses Jenny Derring and Sylvia Caporn. Mr. Jess Frankish arranged the programme.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Thursday 8 July 1937, page 10

1939

On Sunday May 7th 1939 Jack Harrison was guest artist in a “Radiola Rhythm” broadcast by Radio 6PR relayed to 6AM and 6WB.

Billy Barnes Memories

Picking up the thread of Bitty Barnes’s reminiscences… We were discussing the Radiola Rhythm Band around 1935-6.  Then Alwyn Kurts conceived the idea of community concerts with variety, and the Town Ball shows were launched. These proved so popular that a larger hall had to be obtained, so a shift was made to the Capitol Theatre. Personnel comprised Alwyn Kurtz compere, Sylvia Caporn piano, the late ‘Skip’ Alexander clarinet and sax, Viv Nylander trumpet, Alf Shute bass, and Billy Barnes guitar vocals and comedy. Show then transferred to the Ambassadors, which became a very popular mid-day show and continued until war broke out and the outfit then carried on the good work entertaining at camp concerts.  Mirror Saturday 6 June 1953 page 12

1945

P.O.W. WELCOMED. First of a Series of Dances. The first of the monthly series of the POW Relatives’ Association’s “welcome home” dances proved so popular last night that by 9 o’clock the doors of the Town Hall had to be closed. Crowds of ex-POW and their friends crowded the ball while many more looked on from the balcony. The GOC, Western Command (Major-General A. J. Boase) was present. The chairman of the association (Rev C. E. Taylor) welcomed the men and pointed out that the dances were intended for renewals of friendships and a chance for servicemen to get together. He said that the association intended to hold a dance on the last Tuesday of every month and hoped it would not be long before many of the POW in Japanese hands would be able to be present. Nell Shortland-Jones was in charge of the programme while the music was supplied by Sylvia Caporn.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Wednesday 1 August 1945, page 7

1947

George Caro (saxophone), Peter Boyd (trumpet) and Sylvia Caporn (pianist)

THREE MEMBERS of a Perth band gave a noisy farewell to people who watch them leave for Collie for the first of a series of one-night performances which will take in nearly all principal country centres. Northam and Bunbury are next on the list. Left to right above are George Caro (saxophone), Peter Boyd (trumpet) and Sylvia Caporn (pianist).

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 – 1955), Tuesday 9 December 1947, page 12

1949

Rhythmettes

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

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

1950

A.B.C. TO VISIT MANDURAH

For the first time since the inception of the A.B.C. programme “I’ll pay that One” the unit will make a public visit to a country district on Thursday October 26. On this date, competitors in the enjoyable quiz will be drawn from residents of Mandurah and surrounding areas at an evening at the Hotham Valley Hall, Mandurah, at 8 o’clock. Before recording “I’ll Pay that One”, the visiting ABC team will offer the audience a number of items interspersed with community singing led by jovial compere John Juan. Producer of the show is well-known saxophonist Dave Howard who, with pianist Sylvia Caporn, will play several popular numbers. After this interlude, recording begins of “I’ll Pay that One”. This is a bright session based on a simple quiz which contestants never have any trouble answering. It is the only West Aust, feature broadcast regularly to all Australian States, including New Guinea, and is a regular feature of programmes on Radio Australia. An A.B.C. spokesman said this week that members of the “I’ll Pay That One” team were looking forward to the Mandurah visit because it represented the first of the country contacts which they hoped to make more frequently in the future.

South Western Advertiser (Perth, WA), Thursday 12 October 1950, page 8

1951

Square Dancing Draws Record Attendance At Pinjarra Hall

The introduction of Square Dancing to country districts proved an outstanding success at Pinjarra when representatives of the ABC, Messrs. Dave Howard, Bob Scudder, Harry Bluck, George Caro and Sylvia Caporn entertained a capacity house on Monday night. From Harvey to Armadale, Mandurah to the Hills Districts, the record crowd came. So many attended that the entrance to the street and side windows crowded as they endeavoured to see the new craze which is

sweeping the country. As an introduction to country towns the success of the venture is assured. That a record crowd would be in attendance was obvious by the number who attended to receive tuition given between 6 and 8 p.m.

Popular Caller

Caller Bob Scudder carried the evening with a swing and kept the large crowd entertained with his variety and versions of old and popular songs. From toddlers to ancients who came along just for the heck of seeing the dance, from the gentleman in the dinner suit to the teenager with the gaily coloured swinging skirt it was entertainment plus. The echo of those enjoying themselves awakened residents who until the end of the evening would find sleep impossible.

Captivating

It is rarely that one dance can captivate an audience for a whole evening, normally one dance repeated throughout would become monotonous but the square dance with variety has set a precedent. Not since the Charleston swept the country has anything been seen like this. So much were the crowd enjoying themselves with laughter and song that two small children having a free for all near the entrance were passed unnoticed. As the crowd swelled into the hall endeavouring to enjoy the fun they pressed onto the stage among the musicians who didn’t seem to mind and were obviously enjoying themselves as much as anyone. When it became obvious that no more could be admitted Dave Howard forsook the ticket office for his main attraction, the saxophone, and joined the band.

South Western Advertiser (Perth, WA), Thursday 15 March 1951, page 1

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

Symphony In Swing

On Thursday October 4, Harry Bluck will present is annual concert in the form of the Jubilee Symphony in Swing.

Kath Bass (pictured) will be one of the vocalists.  The orchestra will consist of 30 dance and symphony players.  Lionel Lewis will compere the show. Featured soloists will include: Clarinettist Jack Harrison, pianist Ossie Sanderson, soprano Phyl Davidson, accordionist John Todd, vocalist Anatol Pablo, comedian Laurie Croisette, saxophonist Dave Howard, vocalist Phyllis Frost, the popular radio vocal Tritoff’s Trio, pianist Sylvia Caporn, harmonica player Vic de Lano, Latin dancers Robert and Shelda, organist Allan Golding.  Harry Bluck reports that his recent Eastern states trip enabled him to bring back many special orchestrations and arrangements which will be presented at the concert. 

The Broadcaster October (from Jack Harrison scrap book)

1952

OFFICIAL OPENING OF NEW SERVICE STATION

Strangers coming into Merredin on Thursday last were a little bewildered as to what was going on. It was not a public holiday or gala day anywhere in the State as far as they knew, but something unusual was certainly going on in the Eastern Wheatbelt capital. Coming into town from the west, the eye met flags flying in Memorial Park, miniature flower beds with flowers of every variety blooming in profusion, which would be the envy of any gardener; fountains with statuettes emitting aqua purra for the goldfish, all this being surrounded by lawns giving a most picturesque effect.

From an improvised platform, the compere, Mr. Ian Millbank invited the company to partake of the good things provided, and then introduced some A.B.C. talent in Sylvia Caporn (pianist), Nea Sharpe (violinist), and Nell Shortland-Jones (soprano) who would entertain during the afternoon. Nell, who is so popular throughout Western Australia, set things moving from the right foot by her superb rendering of the soprano solo, “Because of You,” and as a demand encore “Be My Love.” Other renditions during the afternoon increased this artists popularity. Sylvia Caporn also pleased with piano solos, and Nea Sharpe’s artistic handling of the violin was captivating. A local artist to face the mike was our own Mrs. Chadwick, who as a prelude to her song, “Kimona,” described how when bathing at the coast without bathers, they lost their kimonas and found themselves in an awkward predicament. This brought forth rounds of applause and cries for more, which was willingly given. Then the roof almost lifted when Mr. Bill Kennedy, Dalgety’s rep., was announced as the next artist. Bill has a deep bass-baritone voice which he uses with telling effect in light and shade passages such as are necessary in his selection of the popular ballad, “Klondyke Kate.” The applause had hardly subsided when it broke out afresh at the appearance of Bill Sheridan, Bill’s rival, who was determined not to be outdone and to keep Elder’s flag flying by rendering “Will She Ever Come Back to Me”, a number that gave him plenty of scope to use his beautiful lyric-tenor voice to the best advantage and if there happened to be a wager on this competition we would give it as a photo finish.

Merredin Mercury (WA : 1912 – 1958), Thursday 19 June 1952, page 3

1953

DANCE BAND NOTES

Ladies’ auxiliary of the Musicians’ Association held two successful functions recently. First was the annual dinner at Earl’s Court and then the children’s Xmas tree al Cottesloe Civic Centre. Races and novelties were presented on the lawns and a spread was held in the Lesser Hall, which coincided with the arrival of Santa, who distributed toys from the tree. Congratulations to popular sec. Sylvia Caporn and her energetic committee.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 19 December 1953, page 13

1954

Dance Band Notes

Well known Perth dance and radio band leader Harry Bluck is now convalescent after parting with his appendix at Westminster last week. Harry won’t be back on deck until February, so Sylvia Caporn will fill in on piano, and saxophonist Jack Pateman, who has been associated with HB. tor 8 years, will deputise with the baton. The jive contest will commence at the open air at Cottesloe Palais tonight. Sammy Sharp’s band will dish out their usual groovy rhythms.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 9 January 1954, page 10

 

Moora Football Association Presentation Ball

The Central Midlands Football Association are holding their 1st Annual Presentation Ball on Wednesday. October 13 1954 at the Moora Town Hall. It is hoped that a large crowd will be in attendance to enjoy the evening which is guaranteed, to be entertainment at its best. Sylvia Caporn on of W.A.’s leading musicians has been engaged to provide music, the catering arrangements for supper are in the hands of Mrs. C. S. Brown—locals will need no further recommendation that this side of the evening will highly successful. During the evening a short ceremony will take place at 10.30 p.m. when the Kestel Gold Medal for Fairest and Best for the season the leading goalkickers trophy etc., will be presented.

Midlands Advocate (Perth, WA), Thursday 30 September 1954, page 3

1958

Sylvia died on 30th May 1958 aged 43.

 

Instruments

Years

Ramon, Jill, William Jnr and Jack Harrison

Ramon, Jill, Bill Jnr and Jack
Ramon, Jill, Bill Jnr and Jack
Harrison family

Percy Newton – clarinet

Person

NEWTON, Percy

1897 – 26.1.1947

Walter Percival Newton was born in 1897 and died 26.1.1947 aged 50.

Percy Newton arrived with his brother Harold and family from England in 1927.  The Newton brothers were very involved in consolidating the new Perth Symphony Orchestra in the late 1920s. 

Nicholson’s Limited was a music store situated in the heart of Perth and many of the players used to meet in its music hall to discuss a possible solution to their problems of finding work. Among this group were the Newton Brothers, Percy and Harold, who had immigrated from the United Kingdom in 1927. They played for the most part with the Prince of Wales Theatre Orchestra then, following its demise, moved to the Capitol Theatre Orchestra. Percy Newton was a fine clarinet player whose services had been sought by prestigious orchestral conductors in England and who later became a leader teacher of this instrument giving a good grounding to later clarinet stars like Donald Westlake and Jack Harrison.

Harrison, Marcia WEST AUSTRALIAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Celebrating 75 Years 2003 p.3

Percy was an appointed member of the professional Perth Symphony Orchestra formed in 1936 playing clarinet and was appointed deputy conductor in 1937. He remained Principal Clarinet until 1946.

1928 William Harrison performed with the Newton brothers

Joy Boys – A Talented Company

The Joy Boys gave a bright and varied entertainment in the Town Hal Dalwallinu on Wednesday night. The programme included singing, step-dancing, and musical items. Mr Sydney Clarke, on the violin, was much appreciated. Mr Clark rendered an imitation of the bagpipes on the violin, which was very good indeed, as were his old-time melodies and step dancing. Mr Cass Mahomet’s singing was greatly enjoyed. Mr Irwin Lawrances’s cornet solo and Mr Percy Newton‘s saxophone number brought forth great applause. Mr Les Dixon delighted his hearers by his playing the piano, and Mr Townley was splendid on the sousaphone and trombone. The company was worthy of a larger audience. 

North-Eastern Courier (Perth, WA), Saturday 6 September 1930, page 3

Saturday, January 9th 1932 – 6WF, PERTH.

8.0: The first revue of 1932 by the Radioptomists, produced by Harry Graham. Artists: Dorothy Manning, Billy Edwards, David Lyle, Harold Newton, Malcolm Dick, Paul Daly, Eileen Hart, Lulu Potter, Edna Waterman and Percy Newton; accompanist, Phyllis Blott.  The 6WF Revue Orchestra and the A.B.C. Mixed Quartet will assist. 

Western Mail (Perth, WA : 1885 – 1954), Thursday 24 December 1931, page 3

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Last Sunday’s Concert

Before a moderately large audience, the Perth Symphony Orchestra offered another first class concert at His Majesty’s Theatre last Sunday evening. The music was of a lighter type than usual and, though it may not have suited sonic of the high-brow critics, appealed to the major section of the crowd.

Two dance numbers, Ponchielli’s popular ‘Dance of the Hours’ and Puccini’s ‘Witches’ Dance’ from ‘Le Villi,’ were both well rendered, except that the cold weather mitigated against the tone of the strings and affected the wood wind, where one or two weak links sometimes TEND TO SPOIL the excellent playing of the principal clarinet (Mr. Percy Newton). A suite of ballet music, ‘Hiawatha,’ by Coleridge-Taylor was a delight, and selections from ‘Rigoletto’ — one of Verdi’s best -known operas — proved popular with the audience. Mr. George Mellor (cornet) was, as usual, responsible for some fine solo work in the ‘Paraphrase’ which preceded the famous quartette that closed the number, and incidentally Mr. Reid had to respond with an encore to this item. Two overtures, ‘The Barber of Seville’ (Rossini) and ‘Zampa’ (Herold) completed the orchestral section of the programme. Signor Ugo Mina (tenor) offered pleasing selections from Italian operas. 

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 22 July 1933, page 12

‘JOHN O’LONDON’S’ CIRCLE – An Evening of Music

The concluding session of the year of the ‘John O’ London’s’ Literary Circle was held last night at Lyric House, Murray Street. A programme of music was contributed to by Perth musicians. A quintet conducted by Mr. Harold Newton, and consisting of Messrs. Ron Brearley (cello), Fred Murphy (clarionet), Percy Newton  (clarionet), Norbert Coulehan (oboe), and Mrs. Wilson (pianoforte) provided several of the items. Solos were given by Mr. Brearley and Mrs. Wilson, and songs by Mr. Austin Coulehan and Miss June Fiore. In addition, a musical monologue and elocutionary items were contributed by Miss May Downes and Miss Mary Ward. The musical part of the entertainment was organised by Mr. Norbert Coulehan. The circle will resume its meetings in March.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Friday 15 December 1933, page 12

SUNDAY BROADCASTS – New 6IX Feature.

NEXT Sunday evening at 6.15 o’clock the first of a new series of broadcast will take place from the Ambassadors Theatre over station 6IX. Ron Brearley and his Merrymakers and a novelty orchestra will present a session of popular and classical vocal and instrumental numbers, which is being sponsored by General Theatres Corporation, Ltd., as a regular weekly feature. Among the artists who are to be heard are Harold Newton, Rita Hawse, Will Talbot Anthony Northe, Teddy Phillips, Percy Newton, and a feature of the first programme will be the novel way of introducing the items. Among the items to be played on the first night will be the ever-popular “Mikado” selection, rendered by the Merrymakers Orchestra. Rita Hawse will be heard in three numbers, “Bird Songs at Eventide,” “Ballad Memories” and “Everything I Have Is Yours,” accompanied by the orchestra and organ. Will Talbot, monologuist, will present “Sitting on a Log” and there will be an unusual organ and piano duet by Messrs. Northe and Phillips.

Western Mail (Perth, WA : 1885 – 1954), Thursday 23 August 1934, page 39

State Symphony Orchestra.

The West Australian State Symphony Orchestra will give another concert at the Prince of Wales Theatre, Perth, on Sunday night. An Algerian march by Mr. de Laeter (a member of the orchestra) will be the opening number and will be followed by “Capriccio Espagnol” (Rimsky-Korsakov), “Komarinskaja” (Glinka) and a repetition by request of Rimsky Korskov’s “The Flight of the Bumble Bee,” played at the last concert. Assisting artists include Paul Daly, May Webster and her eight mascots, Percy Newton and Ruth Cranfield.

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Friday 24 August 1934, page 8

FAMOUS CONDUCTOR – Coaxes Great Music From Perth Orchestra

Thursday night was a momentous one in Perth musical circles, when the fruits of Professor Schneevoigt’s (the eminent Finnish conductor) work with the Perth Symphony Orchestra of 65 players were revealed to the public at His Majesty’s Theatre. A Tchaikowsky Symphony occupied the whole of the first half, and right from the first bar of the supremely delicate, wistful pianissimo opening it was apparent that a genius was wielding the baton. Indeed, never before had local music-lovers been regaled with such appetising fare, and while the four movements were being played, one might have heard the proverbial pin drop during the soft passages or the brief pause between each section. Even at the conclusion of the Symphony there was an impressive silence before a STORM OF APPLAUSE which lasted for several minutes, swept through the theatre. Professor Schneevoigt was recalled several times and eventually he also joined in the applause as a gesture to the magnificent work of the orchestra. Indeed, unstinted praise must be given the musicians, especially to the leader of the clarionets, Mr. Percy Newton, on whose capable shoulders rested the initial responsibility for introducing the symphonic theme. Later in the evening the conductor shook hands with Mr. W. Glassford, whose interpretation of a pleading melody in one of the other numbers was to his liking. A delicate suite for strings, Sibelius’ ‘Rakastava.’ was the first item of the second half. This, as was the case with rest of the offerings, suffered a few blemishes by minor false entries and, at times, a decided uncertainty on the part of some of the key players, but were overshadowed by the grand concerted climax that were obtained throughout the evening. Of special merit was the performance, with lovely orchestral accompaniment, of Perth’s gifted soprano, Miss Lorna Sydney Smith, whose DELIGHTFUL RENDERINGS of Wagner’s ‘Schmergen’ and ‘Traume’ were well received. 

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 12 June 1937, page 17

DUAL BIRTHDAY PARTY – WEST PERTH FUNCTION

With a flesh-and-blood orchestra playing the opening overture, scenes from ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ musical travesties and acting ad lib, quite a gay party took place at the home of Mrs. Craze, Havelock-street, West Perth, on Tuesday night. The occasion was the anniversary of the birthdays of Misses Roma Craze and Edna Waterman, and was marked by the attendance of many musicians and their friends. Some of the culminating scenes were real rollicking gems, when instead of cellos and double basses, Alf Shute sang a declamatory ditty and danced a fandango amid the wreckage of a travelling gipsy’s caboose. Harold Newton as guest conductor and brother Percy as temperamental pianist saw these maestros in lighter vein and provided much entertainment to their friends, who developed sore throats cheering them on or shrieking at their carefree antics. In addition to Mrs. Craze and her three daughters, those present were Mr. and Mrs. Harold Newton, Mr. and Mrs. Percy Newton, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Chaloner, Mr. and Mrs. Alf Shute, Mrs. Jones (Tasmania), Mrs. Waterman, Mrs. R. Rees, Miss Frankie Woodhouse, Miss Nina Gobi, T. Bennett and Cyril Huntley. During the partaking of supper Mr. Harold Newton, supported by many other speakers, proposed the toast of the celebrants, referring eulogistically to Miss Roma Craze, who is leaving for England shortly to continue her studies as a linguist and other professional attainments.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 10 September 1938, page 23

HER REWARD FOR PLUCKY RESCUE

THIS IS THE SIDE OF LAST WEEK’S HEROIC RESCUE STORY THAT WASN’T TOLD

When little 14-year-old Nylsalie Newton, daughter of well-known clarinettist and A.B.C. deputy conductor Percy Newton, dragged two drowning women to safety in the Claremont Baths, she subsequently received unstinted admiration of praise from her schoolmates and the many others who heard about her noble deed. Scores of people stood watching the two women drown, were even laughing at their antics, not dreaming they were in difficulties. Nylsalie Newton did. Her young brain did a piece of quick thinking and she jumped into split-second action of which any veteran would have been proud. So much everyone knows, although at the time she unobtrusively slipped away from the Baths soon as she had informed the attendant of the two ladies’ plight. But what the public doesn’t know is how the brave youngster was rewarded for her plucky effort. She put down her bathing cap while she changed into her street clothes and returned to find it missing. It had been stolen.

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1921 – 1956), Saturday 22 April 1939, page 10

MINIATURE RECITAL – Mozart Trio and Songs

A Mozart trio in E flat major for piano, viola and clarinet was played by Phyllis Blott, William Glassford and Percy Newton at the thirteenth of this seasons series of miniature recitals at the Karrakatta Club Hall yesterday afternoon. It was a pleasing experience, having for a Perth audience not only the attraction of a masterly composition well presented but also the element of novelty for the work has had but few public performances in this city. 

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Friday 5 November 1943, page 3

EVERYMAN’S MUSIC – Recital Tonight

An unusually varied programme is offered by the Adult Education Board in the third of the current Everyman’s Music series to be given in Winthrop Hall this evening at 8.15 o’clock. Chamber music will include the Divertimento in B Flat for two clarinets and bassoon (Mozart) with Percy Newton, Robert Trew and Jock Good and the Mozart Trio in E Flat for piano, clarinet and viola with Edward Black, Percy Newton and William Glassford. 

West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Thursday 25 April 1946, page 6

Jack Harrison ,Don Westlake and Peter Clinch studied clarinet with Percy Newton.

 

 

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