AUTUMN CONCERTO

MEETING OF THE ROBERT FARNON SOCIETY: SUNDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2007 AT THE BONNINGTON HOTEL, LONDON

By BRIAN REYNOLDS

To paraphrase the well—known September Song ‘It’s a long long time from April to November’ and the congregation attending this year’s ‘Autumnfest’ were as keen as always to wallow in another four hours of glorious melodies. As usual, many of those attending were ‘regular’, and those who weren’t were taking tablets for it!

Proceedings began as members took their seats to the accompaniment of the BBC Theatre Orchestra (conducted by Harold Lowe) of Oranges and Lemons - arranged by Spike Hughes.

At 2.OOpm with Albert Killman, David Ades and Vernon Anderson at the presenters’ table, the meeting officially got underway with Robert Farnon’s Proscenium.

The year 2007 being the 90th anniversary of Robert Farnon’s birth, it was felt appropriate that his music should feature more prominently than usual and David, paying tribute to Patricia Farnon, who had recently passed away, felt that something should be played in her memory. Having consulted David Farnon, it was decided that his own arrangement of Bob’s Country Girl would be appropriate - retitled Country Boy on this occasion - the recording being by that fine singer Sheila Southern with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Robert Farnon. (I seem to recall Sheila Southern being the wife of broadcasting pianist Derek Cox).

Albert then introduced a piece as a tribute to Ronnie Hazlehurst who had recently died. He chose a recording by the Ronnie Hazlehurst Orchestra — Robert Farnon’s theme from the fine television series "The Secret Army", after which we were treated to a DVD featuring Dolf van der Linden conducting The Metropole Orchestra in a 1961 performance Il fait des bonds. Robert Farnon was the guest conductor of the Metropole Orchestra on many occasions.

It was then the turn of Vernon Anderson to present a tribute to Angela Morley (formerly Wally Stott); the items chosen were Limehouse Blues from the Sounds of Paradise Orchestra (Stott), Embraceable You featuring Rosemary Squires, then an item from "The Missing Battleship" - an edition of "The Goon Show". This was the closing theme Ding Dong The Witch Is Dead from "The Wizard of Oz". Finally, Vernon played us Angela’s private recording of one of her latest compositions entitled Reverie.

It was now time for Albert and David’s usual selection of new releases which were as follows:

Young Man in Love (Ernest Tomlinson) from the 1974 suite "Aladdin" played by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland from ‘British Light Music Premieres Vol. 4 (Dutton Epoch).

Theme from the ‘Glenn Miller Story’ by Henry Mancini arr.Stott and played by the Wally Stott Orchestra - a Philips 78 on a new Dutton Vocalion CD. David criticised the complete lack of booklet notes.

Legend by Henry Croudson, who was a popular cinema organist and musical director of the ‘Strings in Rhythm’ on radio, this recording being by the London Promenade Orchestra conducted by Walter Collins from the new Guild CD ‘Musical Kaleidoscope’ Vol.1

Ladies of Lisbon by William Hill Bowen who wrote under the pen names of Luis Tristan and Don Versey - a fact that could have been mentioned in the booklet notes, if there had been any! This piece (a particular favourite of mine) was played here by the George Melachrino Orchestra and is from a new Vocalion CD entitled ‘Our Man in London’ & Highlights from ‘Lisbon at Twilight’. David pointed out that some titles are missing from the second LP, and Roses of Picardy is credited to Haydn instead of Haydn Wood!

Pioneer Trail (Charles Williams) - signature tune for the annual BBC Sports Personality of the Year - played by the Danish State Radio Orchestra conducted by Robert Farnon -a Chappell recording on Guild CD ‘Musical Kaleidoscope Vol 2.

To conclude the first part of the afternoon’s entertainment David introduced (on DVD) excerpts from our 50th Anniversary souvenir.

A thirty minute interval followed, introduced by one of Angela Morley’s play-out themes for "Hancock’ s Half Hour".

PART TWO

The audience returned to their seats to the accompaniment of the Associated British Studio Orchestra conducted by Louis Levy in a performance of the title music from the soundtrack of "Laughter in Paradise" by Stanley Black - this being a subtle clue as to what was to come.

For our main feature we were honoured by the presence of Stanley Black’s son Jeffrey Black who, together with his daughter Jacqueline gave a lucid, affectionate, yet frank account of Stanley’s career. Tony Clayden introduced the Blacks to the audience drawing attention to the fact that several other members of the Black clan (including his widow, Edna Kaye) were also present to give support. In what he described as a ‘senior moment’ Tony managed to forget Jacqueline’s name, but saved the day by turning it into a running joke. To illustrate their talk, the Blacks played the following pieces, some of which had to be shortened because of time:

Music from the 1949 film "Third Time Lucky" featuring Edna Kaye
It’s a Raggy Waltz (Brubeck) - Piano feature
Rhapsody in Blue (Gershwin)
Quiet Night of Quiet Stars (Jobim)
Mood Mambo from "The Young Ones"
Three Blind Mice (arr. Black)
Music from the Australian film "Strictly Ballroom"
Honeysuckle Rose — featuring Coleman Hawkins
That Old Black Magic

Tony Clayden thanked Jeffrey and Jacqueline Black for their excellent presentation and continued with a couple of tributes of his own. Firstly, he played part of The Selfish Giant as a tribute to its composer, Eric Coates, whose death occurred fifty years ago, in December 1957. Afterwards, he played Elgar’s Salut d’amour. The year 2007 was, of course, the 150th anniversary of the birth of Sir Edward Elgar — as most people are aware, apart from the Bank of England who, as a mark of disrespect, chose this year to remove his picture from our banknotes!

Tony also took the opportunity to inform us of a recital on 16th December by our own Robert Habermann (accompanied by Geoff Eales) and a concert by the London Salon Ensemble at the Royal Festival Hall on December 30th.

It was then back to the big screen again, as we watched Robert Farnon, on a DVD, conduct the London Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall in his Farnon Fantasy.

Tony then took control if the raffle, with the assistance of Jeffrey and Jacqueline Black, heralded by Edmund Hockridge (a long time Canadian colleague of Robert Farnon) singing Luck Be a Lady. The interval was announced by Stanley Black’s March of the Goons.

PART THREE

We returned to our seats to the accompaniment of Bert Kaempfert’s Las Vegas — from a new Guild CD due for release in January and no doubt available by the time you read this.

Albert opened up the third part of the show by introducing Cab Smith and his familiar ‘Swing Session’. This comprised the following:

Button Up Your Overcoat played by the Robert Farnon Orchestra from a Philips LP
The Very Thought of You sung by Carol Kidd
Swing Hoe (Farnon) — Leslie Jones and his orchestra of London.

Albert thanked Cab for his presentation and then introduced Paul Barrett who had come along to tell us about a forthcoming concert which he was promoting by the newly reconstituted Mantovani Orchestra — the concert venue being ‘The Lighthouse’ in Poole. This presentation was accompanied by the famous Mantovani recording of Charmaine. Afterwards Albert played Mantovani’s Tanya - the Moulin Rouge Theme. Albert went on to play Gabrielle which comes from the film "Paris when it Sizzles" and was played by Vic Lewis and the strings of the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

As usual, David presented the final section of the programme and commenced with Robert Farnon’s Sea Shore - a big hit in those distant days when real music sometimes made the ‘Charts’. It was played by Rawicz and Landauer with the Wally Stott Orchestra.

We were then given an opportunity (via DVD) of watching and listening to Robert Farnon talking about his early career.

This was followed by an old favourite ‘Winter Sunshine’ by George Melachrino, arranged by Robert Farnon, who was conducting the BBC Radio Orchestra.

With Christmas just a few weeks away, it was appropriate to close the meeting with Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas in a Bob Farnon arrangement - performed by Tony Bennett with the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Don Jackson (recorded at Abbey Road, August 2002 for Hallmark Cards).

It just remained for David to thank everyone for their contributions - the Stanley Black Family (who had to leave early), Vernon Anderson, Tony Clayden, Cab Smith, Paul Barrett not forgetting the helpers on reception. Special thanks were also given to Tony Clayden for his technical services which require a lot of time and effort, and of course, the indefatigable Albert Killman.

The meeting dispersed to Robert Farnon’s Melody Fair, followed by Carioca (from a radio broadcast by the Robert Farnon Orchestra), Canadian Caravan from Leslie Jones and his Orchestra of London, and finally, a Christmas Medley from Tony Bennett accompanied by Robert Farnon.

"Chasing The Blues Away"

Report of RFS London meeting held at the Bonnington Hotel on Sunday 26 November 2006 by VERNON ANDERSON

While everyone was settling in we were treated to the sounds of Robert Farnon’s overture for Pia Zadora including many of the pieces Bob had arranged for her albums and concert tours back in the mid 1980’s.

PART 1

With the strains of Robert Farnon’s "Proscenium" still ringing in our ears David opened the meeting with a warm welcome to everyone, especially having braved the storms encountered during the morning. Thankfully the weather had now settled and it was good to see so many attending, especially those people here for the first time. We were in for a real treat.

David then introduced the other presenters at the top table, Albert Killman and Robert Habermann. Albert then paid tribute to fellow member Brian Coleman who sadly died in May this year (obit. JIM 169 Oct, 2006). Brian joined the society back in the 1950’s and was a great lover of light music but especially Bob’s compositions. One of his favourite pieces was Bob’s "Concorde March", which Albert now played in Brian’s memory.

Albert introduced Robert Habermann for his tribute to Sir Malcolm Arnold who died in September (obit. JIM 170 Dec, 2006) which commenced with "Colonel Bogey March" from the film "Bridge over the River Kwai" (1957) which highlighted his own excellent march theme which he used as a counterpoint. This was followed by Sir Malcolm’s charming "Whistle down the wind" of 1961. Robert related many aspects of Sir Malcolm’s life, focussing on his composing for films and documentaries. In 1948 he had the opportunity to write a full score.

He composed hundreds of films scores but also many overtures and dances for orchestra. Robert’s third selection was Sir Malcolm’s "English Dance". He was a prolific composer; 9 symphonies, 2 operas, 17 concertos, 5 ballets and many notable pieces covering various genres and all of them memorable. However he did suffer some notable rejections. The MGM film "Invitation to the Dance" with Gene Kelly, for which he wrote a modern jazz sequence was not used in the score and this was one of several major disappointments (Robert Farnon’s contribution to the same film suffered a similar fate). However his output was rewarded with Honorary Doctorates from a number of music universities.

Robert’s last selection was the music from the "St Trinians" films, which highlighted Sir Arnold’s very keen sense of humour. Albert thanked Robert for a fitting tribute to a highly talented man, which was well received.

Albert then handed over to David for the first of his New Releases. David held aloft the new Epoch CD from Michael Dutton containing, among other well known and much loved Robert Farnon pieces, the World Premier Recordings of Bob’s symphony No.2 in B major (Ottawa) and the Scherzo from his symphony No.1 in D flat Major. David introduced us to the first movement of symphony No.2. This has a dramatic opening which (for this listener) reflected on a world threatened by war, but soon develops into a more patriotic or "homeland" style, perhaps the Canadian landscape and its indigenous people, city life in more care-free days and then like Bob, feeling the need to join the fight for freedom and the sacrifices that that might entail. The movement ends in tranquil mood. This piece was well received on this its first hearing in over 60 years. David confirmed that copies of the CD were available from the RFS Record Service at the meeting. He mentioned especially the brilliant playing of the BBC Concert Orchestra under the direction of John Wilson, recorded at The Colosseum (formerly know as Watford Town Hall) in June 2006. (A full page advert appears on page 4 of JIM issue No. 170, and a full description of the Sessions is to be found on page’s 48 to 51 including illustrations in JIM issue No. 169).

Albert picked up the theme of the last piece adding that he CD opened with a marvellous interpretation of Bob’s Suite from the 1951 film "Captain Horatio Hornblower RN." Albert went on to introduce the second piece from the Guild Series, presenting "The Golden Age of Light Music" all of which are on sale at today’s meeting. This comes from the CD with colourful themes "Beyond the Blue Horizon" and he highlighted Angela Morley’s 1954 arrangement of "Deep Purple", played by Wally Stott and his orchestra, in which she provides us with a lush string sound. After which David gave us the news that Angela is presently having treatment for cancer, and voiced the thought of all present in wishing her a speedy recovery.

David followed this with a request from fellow member Peter Burt, who with his wife Ellen had been unable to attend today’s meeting due to a flood in their house. David played piece No. 3 - Roland Shaw’s arrangement of Charlie Chaplin’s "The Toy Waltz" from his 1936 film "Modern Times", by the Mantovani Orchestra, from the "A Song for Christmas" Vocalion CD - the piece ends in the manner of a clock winding down.

No. 4 - David’s next selection was composed by fellow RFS member, Paul Lewis and titled "Rosa Mundi". Inspired by the loss of someone special, when he noticed on a single flower on his favourite rose; the only bloom this year was on "that bush". A calm reflective piece, played by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland on the recent Naxos CD "English String Miniatures - Vol. 6".

No. 5 - David introduced another Guild CD this one titled "Light Music While You Work" and exclaimed that "Brian Reynolds would be interested in this one". Harry Fryer and his Orchestra recorded it for the Decca Label series of 78s ‘MWYW’ but it wasn’t released until 1951 on an early Decca LP. David mentioned the marvellous work which Alan Bunting has done in restoring these old recordings for transferring to C.D format. The composer was believed to be an American named William Wirges and he gave the piece the title "Fascinatin’ Manikin".

No. 6 - Albert introduced a new Eric Coates collection and noted that Eric’s son Austin had given his father’s watch to John Wilson, which John proudly wore during the session for the new Robert Farnon CD in June this year. This is a Living Era re-issue of the ballet suite "The Jester at the Wedding" of 1932, from which Albert played the fourth movement "Dance of the Orange Blossoms". All the pieces on this 2 CD set are conducted by Eric Coates.

No.7 - Albert then introduced us to a new Epoch release courtesy of Mike Dutton titled "Concertino for Celeste" by Roderick Elms, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Stephen Bell. Roderick Elms is playing Celeste on this recording. He wanted this instrument to be better appreciated, but it has achieved greater acclaim thanks to John Williams’ score for the Harry Potter films.

Albert highlighted a new Sinatra Album - "Sinatra Vegas", a 4 CD set and DVD containing all new material. This is on the Rhino Label and will be available from 27 November, 2006.

David’s "Parish Announcements" then bought our attention to the Petition which has been prepared re. the demise of Brian Kay’s BBC Radio 3 Programme, scheduled to be axed early in 2007. Several copies of the petition were displayed around the room and members were encouraged to add their name if they so wished. Alternatively they should write to Michael Grade at the BBC, to the address on the sheets. (Ironically Michael Grade has now resigned from the BBC).

David gave advance notice of the Society’s 100^th meeting at which two gentlemen, Matthew Curtis and Adam Saunders, will be presenting music in April 2007 - two young composers who very much support the Light Music tradition. They were both well received at David’s introduction. We look forward to hearing from them at our next meeting.

 David sent us off to the first interval for tea, coffee and biscuits, not forgetting the raffle draw, with Bob Farnon’s "Jockey on the Carousel".

PART 2

Back to Seats Music - "Seventh Heaven" by Bob. With (practically) everyone returned to their seats, Albert introduced a popular regular presenter to the top table, Rodney Greenberg, who received a warm response from the floor. Rodney then introduced today’s special Guest of Honour, veteran BBC Radio and TV producer Trevor Hill to great applause.

The first point made was reference to the article in the Daily Telegraph on the Gowers Report. Result: "No reason to extend the 50 year ruling". This announcement was received with a round of applause.

Trevor then set the mood by putting his own "interference" on the mike to check the sound system, to much laughter from his audience.

This conversation went at a cracking pace and began with Trevor’s early BBC years with Margaret Potter at Manchester Piccadilly where Rodney first met Trevor. Trevor considered himself exceptionally lucky. While living at 21 Holmwood Grove, N7 he heard some piano music - a neighbour was playing, which got him interested in singing. He won a scholarship to St Paul’s Choir School under the direction of Dr. Field-Hyde where Trevor had to sight read a piece of music. It soon became evident that he required the removal of his tonsils and adenoids. He was keen to listen to the wireless and in particular national programmes of the BBC, through which he was introduced to a gentleman call Sid Walker. Following further exchanges Trevor referred to Rodney as "a walking (seated) encyclopaedia".

Trevor referred to the BBC’s "Band Wagon" programme with Arthur Askey and Richard Murdock which he attended at Mr Walker’s invitation. Trevor got a job at the BBC – one example ITMA door noises!

Music - "Marching On" by Walter Groer - composer/ musician who owned a printing press. Trevor involved with Radio Newsreel, from No. 200 Oxford Street (in the basement of a premier store). Broadcasting House was bombed in 1940.

We heard tape of Dunkirk Evacuation Day. The next day the AEFP was launched. From the BBC Record Library came the signature tune of Forces Favourites which became Two-way Family Favourites from Hamburg - Andre Kostelanetz’s "With a Song in My Heart". Cliff Michelmore, then squadron leader was interviewed; left message to Jean Metcalfe - her response "He’s quite a smoothy, your squadron Leader M!"

Margaret Potter produced her own version of Children’s ( Hour) Magazine, serials etc. Trevor played extracts from "Robin Hood", "Calling All children" 1947 Auditions. Playback of cast of Robin Hood which included many well known celebrities including Cliff Michelmore and Roger Moore etc. Colonel Warren was the first "Ovaltiney". Ivy Benson and her Band, who, following certain escapades with Roger Moore were known as Ivy Bunsen and Her Burners!

Trevor worked for a time with BBC West Region and was then posted North of England to Manchester, worked with Cpl (later Sgt) Ray Martin at base camp in Germany, involving Hamburg Symphony Orchestra. Hugh Garston-Green NWDR. Hamburg Philharmonic.

Other reminiscences included Violet Carson and a whistling postman. The BBC commissioned composer Ray Martin to score music for "Pied Piper" for which Margaret and Trevor wrote the script.

Many other memories followed with names such as Jimmy Edwards, David Hughes, Wilfred Pickles bringing smiles of recognition. Trevor worked with Harry Corbett and his famous glove puppet Sooty for 12 years, and we saw film of Roger Moffat introducing the BBC Northern Dance Orchestra. Other famous animals to rub shoulders with Trevor included Pinky and Perky.

Trevor also knew "Leonard Trebilco", young Bob Farnon and Ted Hockridge. Working on the AEF Programme of the BBC meant acting as sound engineer for Glenn Miller, who wanted individual microphones for each instrument. During a lunch break more were hastily found to satisfy his ego, but it was not possible to connect them to the mixer. Miller didn’t notice, but praised Trevor for the improved sound!

Trevor reflected on further memories from the early days, involving such well known people as Max (Maxwell) Davies - Master of the Queen’s Musik, Julie Andrews, C.S. Forrester and the "Hornblower" books, composer Johnny Pearson which brought the conversation to a close and a special appreciation and thanks from Rodney Greenburg followed by spontaneous applause from the audience.

Albert thanked Rodney and asked Trevor to draw the raffle. We then broke for the Second Interval and returned to the strains of "Sleigh Ride" arranged by (Wally Stott) Angela Morley.

PART 3

Albert back announced the last piece and then reminded us that Ralph and Geoffrey had videod Trevor’s presentation for our archives. He then introduced our last guest speaker, Peter Worsley.

Peter told us he was formerly a Headmaster at a Secondary School, and now working for "This England" magazine. His first selection was Charles Williams’ "The Old Clockmaker" on the Grasmere label which introduced the BBC Children’s Programme "Jennings at School". Second selection from "London Fields Suite" by Phyllis Tate - "Rondo for Roundabouts". The suite also included "Hampstead Heath".

Peter has produced 3 volumes of TV and radio themes on sale at today’s meeting. He also edited This England’s "Book of British Dance Bands" (from the twenties to the fifties) and the "Second Book of British Bands" - (the Singers and smaller bands) and more recently "London Lights" - A History of West End Musicals.

Peter’s third selection was "Giocosso" by Issac Casabon and so "signed off". Albert thanked Peter for an interesting selection and recommended his books (on display) to us, with Christmas approaching.

Albert then introduced our regular presenter Brian Reynolds who proudly reported that his book "Music While You Work" has gone into reprint (interrupted by general applause). The book has bought family members of many of the artists to Brian, seeking more information.

Brian highlighted the music of Cecil Norman (1907-1988), selecting first "Whistling Cowboy" played by the Gilbert Vinter Orchestra (BBC Midland Light Orch); "Bubble and Squeak"; "Fancy Free" played by the Gerald Crossman Players -Brian confirmed that Gerald Crossman is still alive and well. Next followed "Out and About" with the composer and The Rhythm Players. Final number in recognition that Cecil Norman always used to get up at 5 o’clock in the morning - "Up with the Lark" by Harold Collins and his Orchestra. And a final note. In 1967 Cecil Norman ceased broadcasting - on his 70^th birthday. Albert thanked Brian for his tribute to a warm reception.

Albert introduced Cab Smith who decided to present extracts from Robert Farnon’s "Canadian Impressions" Suite commencing with the opening piece "Gateway to the West" (the album was your reporter’s 1^st LP bought while serving in Aden in 1956 and one of his treasured possessions!).

Next followed Bob’s impression of the main route through NW Canada - "Alcan Highway" and finally that great piece that forms the grand finale to the album - "Canadian Caravan". Cab’s selection was of course taken from Mike Dutton’s Vocalion CD which really brought out the atmosphere in the music. Sadly this has now been deleted.

Albert thanked Cab for a great selection and then asked David to present a short selection to close the meeting.

David chose a piece from the Hallmark album with Tony Bennett, a real seasonal number - "The Christmas Song" (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire). And we came to the end of a great afternoon of music and narrative with lots of humour for good measure.

David thanked all the presenters by name and especially our Guest of Honour Trevor Hill.

Then a word of thanks to the ladies at the front table and for arranging the raffle etc. And finally Tony for his great technical support.

David and Albert wished everyone a Happy Christmas/New Year, a safe journey home and looked forward to our next meeting, April 2007.

Closing music -"Melody Fair" (Robert Farnon), Manhattan Playboy (RF)

The Robert Farnon Society celebrated its first 50 Years with a special meeting on 2 April 2006, followed by Dinner afterwards. Peter Burt looks back on that milestone in our Society’s history, which he simply calls …

A Memorable Afternoon

Around 40 members and friends attended the very first meeting of the Robert Farnon Appreciation Society, as it then was, on Sunday 15 April 1956 at the Bonnington Hotel. Three times as many of us made our way on 2 April 2006 to the same venue in London’s Bloomsbury, to celebrate the first 50 years of meetings. One thing I am sure of is that those pioneer members were not faced with such an array of sound and vision equipment that, courtesy of our technical wizard Tony Clayden, enhanced our afternoon’s enjoyment. And what an afternoon!

Bob’s High Street preceded the announcement summoning us to our seats, followed by his ‘The Road to Hong Kong’ Overture. It was then into the programme proper with another Farnon composition, Proscenium. David Ades welcomed us – especially "two very, very special guests", David and Patricia Farnon – before handing over to his co-host Albert Killman, who introduced ‘Farnon Fantasy’: a pot-pourri of A Star is Born, Peanut Polka, Jumping Bean, Westminster Waltz, Portrait of a Flirt and State Occasion. This had been recorded by the LPO at a Royal Festival Hall concert in 1974 conducted by Bob who, we were reminded, had fronted all of the four major London symphony orchestras.

There followed a particularly poignant part of the programme as David and Albert remembered RFS members and friends no longer with us. These were, naturally, Bob himself, Kenneth Head [one of our founders], Michael Maine, Don Furnell, Percy and Edna Foster, Jimmy Gibbs, George Collins, Peter Bunfield, Robert Rudhall, Joy Fox, Ron Goodwin, Clive Richardson, Sir Vivian Dunn, former British Prime Minister Sir Edward Heath [who wrote for this magazine], Trevor Duncan, Alan Dell, Adelaide Hall, Robin Boyle and Dame Anna Neagle [another JIM contributor]. Mention was also made of Dorothy Head who was unwell. [She sadly passed away a few days after the meeting, as reported in our last issue].

David next introduced the first video of the afternoon. This comprised short extracts from RFS meetings in November 1986, the first ever to be recorded on videotape, and May 1987 when Bob’s 70^th birthday was prematurely celebrated and another special guest was a very amusing Alan Dell. It was great to hear that distinctive voice again. Fenella Ades had been behind the video recorder when it seemed The Bonnington was not quite as upmarket as it is nowadays.

We then had a few words from Brian Reynolds about his new book ‘Music While You Work – An Era in Broadcasting’ [Book Guild] which traces the story of the well-loved BBC radio programme from 23^rd June 1940 to 29^th September 1967 with revivals in 1982, ’83, ’91 and ‘95’. Albert followed by introducing recorded messages from Forrest Patten and Bob’s brother Brian in the USA, Alan Heinecke "Down Under" in Australia, and Pip Wedge in Canada. Brian told us that his favourite composition of all that Bob wrote was the first 8 or 10 bars of To A Young Lady.

David introduced Jan Eriksen from Norway who was with us in person to recall the time in 1991 when Bob conducted the Norwegian Radio Orchestra with George Shearing as the soloist. It was worth the price of admission to hear them playing A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square.

The "parish notices" brought us to the first interval and the cutting of Sylvia Rix’s wonderful presentation cake with its liberal infusion of sherry. David also passed on greetings from friends who could not be with us, including John Parry, Frank Comstock, Philip Lane, Peter Taylor in Spain, Horace Bennett, Malcolm Laycock, Brian Coleman and Rodney Greenberg.

It was back to our seats, accompanied by Bob’s recording of Varsity Drag, for David to announce and then introduce our new President, David Farnon. Before playing, with accompanying anecdotes, three of his favourite pieces recorded by Bob - Playtime, The Newsreel March and Country Girl, vocal by Tony Bennett - David told us that over the past year the family had been engaged in compiling a complete catalogue of Bob’s works from all sources with the intention of it going on the Internet. Then there was Bob’s personal library with previously unrecorded works which would be gradually released. There was also a hope that one of Bob’s works might be played at next year’s Proms to mark the 90^th anniversary of his birth.

Next we heard an extract from Bob’s Symphony No. 3 [The Edinburgh], performed by The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra conduced by William Eddins, taken from a Canadian radio broadcast supplied by RFS member Graham Newton.

Albert recalled that TV cameras visited Bob at his home on Guernsey at least twice during the 1980s. From 11^th December 1981 we saw an interview from BBC 1’s ‘Pebble Mill at One’; then from 10^th April 1988 another with Harry Secombe in his long-running ‘Highway’ show on ITV. We learnt that Bob was a man of strong faith who both believed in the power of prayer and that any talent anyone has is God given. The extract concluded with one of Bob’s finest pieces, Proud Canvas. Albert remarked on the hours that David had spent in transcribing the afternoon’s videos from the Society’s archives onto DVDs.

The popular, witty and very personable Brian Kay was next on playing Ray Martin’s Once upon a Wintertime, featuring Bob’s "perfect" arrangement for Vera Lynn with the Robert Farnon Orchestra, and Horn-A-Plenty, with Bob conducting the Danish State Radio Orchestra in his own composition. After thanking Brian, David told us that also in our audience were the very first editor of JIM, John Costin, and the very first equipment controller, Jim Palm.

At this point Albert diverted from the script [at least, from David’s script] to thank David and Moira – "without them we would not have a Society" – and to show our appreciation by presenting them with the gifts you can read about elsewhere. After sustained applause and David’s brief word of thanks, we remembered "a great friend of the Society", Don Furnell, sometime Assistant Secretary, by listening to a recording of his voice from one of our meetings, and his beloved Metropole Orchestra playing Theme from ‘The Flintstones’, with Clark Terry on flugelhorn. Albert’s response was "Yaba Daba Doo!" John McGlynn conducting The London Sinfonietta in We’re in the Money brought us to the Brian drawn raffle and the second interval. The interval music was Bob’s City Streets.

We returned to our seats clutching our CD purchases to hear a piece especially composed by RFS member David Barton in honour of our 50 years: Nostalgic Journey. The final segment of the afternoon’s entertainment opened with Philip Farlow making a moving tribute to the fondly remembered BBC’s Michael Maine, who "from about 1974 for a good long period was magazine editor and cornerstone of the first properly formulated Farnon discography … as well as presenting pieces at the top table." He tragically died in April 1984 as the result of a road accident, aged 33. Happier times were recalled by hearing recordings of his voice on air.

A request from Norman Grant and several other members followed this with extracts from the film ‘Spring In Park Lane’ – music by you-know-who. Cab Smith had to be part of our special meeting and appeared briefly to bring us "The Guv’nor’s" arrangement of Victor Schertzinger’s The Fleet’s In – quality if not quantity. The last item was more video clips, this time from ‘Captain Horatio Hornblower RN’, preceded by an introduction from Bob talking about his work on the film – "the best score I’ve written."

David said how lovely it was to have a member from America, James Cahall in the audience again; and then closed the meeting with the usual thanks all round and, as Melody Fair and Manhattan Playboy came over the loudspeakers, 68 of us made our way downstairs to the Jubilee Suite for the evening’s celebrations.

There we shared in good food and friendship, seasoned by the humour never far from the surface at our gatherings, with music by Ann Adams and her Ladies’ Palm Court Quartet and speeches from David Ades, John Wilson, John Fox, Sigmund Groven, Brian Kay and Tony Clayden. Albert was our admirable Master of Ceremonies. It was a memorable evening to crown a memorable afternoon. And as our President had said earlier in the day and our Secretary had echoed at the end of the meeting: "Here’s to the next 50 years."

Peter Burt

A Coda from our Secretary…

For once in my life I was really stumped for words. When Albert suddenly departed from our rough script, and asked Moira and myself to join him in front of the Presenters’ Table, I was completely unprepared for what was to follow. And my dear Moira was moved to tears!

After saying some very kind words about our involvement with the Society for the past 50 years, Albert presented Moira with a charming brooch which she will wear with pride at our future meetings.

My own presentation was a copy of Robert Farnon’s Decca 78 of Jumping Bean and Portrait of a Flirt inside a special case bearing the inscription:

"The Robert Farnon Society 50th Anniversary 1956-2006

Presented to David Ades in recognition and appreciation of his many years of loyal and devoted service to the Society and of his tireless support and promotion of Light Music"

This means more to be than any other award I have ever received, and it occupies a place of honour directly in front of the desk at which I do all my work. I will see it every time I look up and I can only express my sincere thanks to everyone involved in making this wonderful thing happen. It is something I will never forget.

Occasions such as this require a concerted effort from so many people, and the success of the Anniversary Meeting is due to willing contributions from so many. Members of both the main Committee, and the London Meetings Sub-Committee, assisted in numerous ways, and there were also other generous helpers who joined in on the day. I hope I remembered to thank you all during the meeting or at the Dinner, but if my memory failed me I hope you will forgive someone who was still so overwhelmed by the kindness shown to him.

The events were captured on video and even as this magazine is being prepared a souvenir DVD is being assembled by Geoffrey Richardson (much to his regret, Geoffrey was abroad at the time, so he missed the meeting). Ralph Thompson was in change of the cameras during the day, and he was ably assisted by Brian Joscelyne and Stephen Wright. To them all I extend my sincere thanks. There is still a lot of work to do but we are hoping that the finished DVD will be ready for members to buy before Christmas – watch out for details in the next magazine.

Once again I must say what a real delight it was to welcome Mrs. Patricia Farnon and her son David (our honoured new President) during the afternoon and evening. Their presence provided the real ‘icing on the cake’.

And talking of the cake (yes, I know it’s a very corny link!) we are so grateful to Sylvia Rix for providing such a delicious ‘special treat’ for all the members. Not only was it stunning in its clever design, but it also tasted even better than it looked!

Ann Adams and her Ladies provided us with some delightful music before, and during, the Dinner, and it was good to see several non-dining members occupying chairs near the musicians and enjoying the music.

Finally (for now!) I wish to thank Malcolm Powell for taking the excellent photographs which appear on the previous pages in this feature, and on the pages immediately following this report. If you would like copies you can contact Malcolm direct – details of his address etc. on the inside front cover. (The photo on page by Simon Mentha was kindly supplied by Ann Adams).

As Peter Burt said at the top of his report: it was a truly Memorable Afternoon!

David Ades

Shortly after our Meeting, the following message was received from one of our honoured guests, BRIAN KAY

"Congratulations to you all for a splendid 50^th Anniversary Celebration. I was so glad to be there, and to be made so welcome by everyone, and enjoyed the occasion enormously. It was fascinating to see those old videos and the excerpts from the two main films were terrific, as I’d never seen either of them!

With you guys around the name and the music of Robert Farnon will surely last forever – quite right, too!"

In November 2005 the Robert Farnon Society welcomed one of Britain’s foremost film and television composers to its London meeting. As Peter Burt reports, DEBBIE WISEMAN captivated everyone present!

Debbie delights

For those of us visiting London and using its public transport for the first time since July 7^th, there may have been some anxiety in travelling to the refurbished Derby Suite at the Bonnigton Hotel on November 27^th. As we joined in a moment’s silence to remember the passing of Robert Farnon and two past stalwarts of the Society, Edna Foster and Peter Bunfield, I am sure our minds also turned to those whose lives had been so tragically cut short or been maimed in the atrocities.

Movingly, the lights were dimmed as we listened to Bob’s recording of Peacehaven. What happened in July may also have deterred some of us attending Bob’s Memorial Service, so it was good to have Albert introduce a video of short excerpts from the eulogies, including one by our indefatigable Secretary. David himself told us there was a CD of the eulogies available for sale. He then spoke briefly about the acclaimed BBC Four programme ‘Music for Everybody’ and introduced excerpts featuring Robert Farnon. Albert followed this by introducing extracts from two exclusive Society DVDs: recordings of recent visits to our meetings by Trevor Duncan and Ernest Tomlinson, both of whom we were sorry to hear were currently in poor health. [We have, of course, subsequently lost Trevor, as reported elsewhere in this issue]. These events had been expertly recorded and edited by Ralph Thompson with assistance from Geoffrey Richardson.

The popular New Releases spot was next with an interesting Ron Goodwin arrangement of The Stripper [Vocalion]; Silverheels by the Palm Court Orchestra conducted by Charles Job [Canada]; Castles in the Air - Celebrity Symphony Orchestra [Guild]; First Meeting from John Fox’s "The Love of Joy" - Royal Ballet Sinfonia [Campion], and What Kind of Fool Am I? sung by Lance Ellington with the John Wilson Orchestra [Vocalion]. David was hugely enthusiastic about the last disc but this listener would have preferred Andrew Cottee’s arrangement without the vocal! Wearing my CD seller’s hat, I still think that with so many noteworthy new releases it is pity room can only be found for four tracks. Stanley Black’s closing theme from ‘The Naked Truth’ sent us to the first interval and a welcome cuppa.

We resumed our seats for what was without any doubt whatsoever the highlight of the meeting. This was an extended interview conducted by Rodney Greenberg with our Guest of Honour, Debbie Wiseman MBE. Debbie is one of our finest composers whose work has been widely praised by critics and music lovers. She discussed her career with Rodney and gave us a fascinating insight into writing and recording music for television and movies. Her words were enhanced by video clips from ‘Arsène Lupin’, ‘Freeze Frame’, ‘Tom’s Midnight Garden’ and ‘Wilde’. Albert voiced the appreciation of all present for a "most delightful hour".

Debbie drew the raffle and we broke again for another interval and a further opportunity to gladden Ellen, Paul, and myself [not forgetting the Treasurer] by buying more CDs.

Bob’s Trumpet Talk brought us back to our seats for Cab Smith, eschewing his usual Swing Session, to play three more Farnon compositions all connected with transport: En Route, Main Street, and Rush Hour. Paul Clatworthy was then welcomed to the platform and brought us Con Alma played by Dizzy Gillespie accompanied by Mr Farnon and his Orchestra. Back, then, to Albert who introduced two selections from Canadian radio programmes marking Bob’s death.

Firstly from Robert Harris’s CBC Radio 2 programme ‘I Hear Music’, an hour long tribute to Bob, came I Got Rhythm with Bob and the AEF Band. Interestingly Robert’s father had worked with Bob when he first came to this country. Secondly from a weekly radio show presented by RFS member Glenn Woodcock on Jazz FM [Toronto], which devoted the whole of its 5-hour time slot to Bob, we heard the closing music from the AEF ‘Canadian Caravan’ show that Bob later re-orchestrated for Canadian Impressions.

DVD excerpts had been a feature of the afternoon and David appropriately brought proceedings to a close by introducing two more from TV: the thought to have been long lost ‘The Best of Two Worlds’ presenting Robert Farnon and his Orchestra with Douglas Gamley and Petula Clark; and the more recent BBC4 showing of a ‘Friday Night Is Music Night’ with John Wilson conducting the BBC Concert Orchestra in Portrait of a Flirt, March from A Little Suite, and A Canadian in Mayfair.

David’s customary closing thanks all round included the welcoming ladies who take our money for admission and the raffle, and the tireless Tony Clayden who not only supplies and operates the technical facilities but leads the team responsible for devising the meeting. On Advent Sunday it was a shame there was no seasonal music, but it had been an afternoon reassuring us that some things are still right with our world.

RFS LONDON MEETING – SUNDAY 3 APRIL 2005
A Report by Paul Clatworthy

RFS Secretary David Ades opened the meeting by welcoming our Membership Secretary Albert Killman back on board after a spell in hospital. He had missed our previous meeting, and it was good to see him back at his familiar place on the top table.

Before the meeting proper began, the ‘settling down’ music featured two titles from that rare Everest LP "Mike Todd’s Broadway", which Robert Farnon made ‘anonymously’ while still under contract elsewhere. Even more rare is the stereo version, never released in Britain, from which came Stay With The Happy People and Violins from Nowhere.

To get the meeting off to a rousing start we heard some of the themes composed by Robert Farnon for the TV mini-series "A Man Called Intrepid" starring David Niven. Bob Farnon provided the music from his own collection as it was never released commercially. Frenesi was played as a tribute to the late Artie Shaw, dear to many Farnon members as a string section was used, at the time quite an innovation.

Tony Bennett singing the late Cy Coleman's composition "The Riviera" showcased Farnon's skill as a Big Band arranger, exhilarating music yet to make it on to CD! Next André Leon did a presentation explaining the problems he had after being commissioned to resurrect the Boosey and Hawkes mood music library. One unlikely source - Australia! Luckily they were not so quick to use a skip as the London HQ! Alan Bunting has done a wonderful clean-up of the sound when transferring these vintage 78s to CD. Alan must spend 24 hours a day with this valuable restoration work, and several "snippets" of the music (now back in catalogue) were played to illustrate the scope of "mood" music recovered plus some words from Alan Bunting thanking those who had helped with rare missing tracks.

David and Albert played some new releases, including film music by Clifton Parker (from the Walt Disney film "Treasure Island"); Matthew Curtis’s Bon Voyage and the Percy Faith Orchestra with a spirited version of Leroy Anderson’s Pyramid Dance. Albert Killman gave the good news that Angela Morley is still composing and will be a guest on the Brian Kay programme in July – we heard her Adrift in a Dream from a new Guild CD. Part of Eric Rogers’ score for "Carry on Abroad" complete with some "earthy" humour followed - "great to listen to on a boring car journey" said David. Before the first interval David gave apologies for absence and welcomed some distinguished guests.

Part two opened with Cab Smith’s "Swing Session" which featured Bob Farnon's arrangements of Just in time, Come fly with me and Black Bottom. The first title was almost a certain choice if Sinatra had ever got to work with Bob again, sadly never to be!

Robert Habermann introduced our main Guest of the afternoon - David Snell, harpist, pianist, composer and conductor, all in one talented man! David talked of working with Tubby Hayes, Johnny Scott, Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine. Vocalion have just issued a CD version of his Decca L.P "The Subtle Sound of David Snell" (CDLF 8110) from which we heard his delightful version of The Surrey with the Fringe on Top and one from the KPM mood library International Flight. David also worked for the Bruton library and we heard the evocative Sleigh Ride.

The BBC Radio Orchestra also had the benefit of his talent until its untimely demise at the hands of the accountants! David played one of the pastoral pieces he was most pleased with, Evensong; I am sure everyone present agreed with his choice. David continued his illuminating spot with the end credit music for the story "Sun Child" one of his film soundtracks. Next the last part of his Divertimento for Strings recorded by the L.S.O. He ended with Walking Happy especially written for him by Bob Farnon.

Albert ushered all guests back to their seats for the last part of the proceedings, beginning with Brian Reynolds’ trawl through his archive of broadcast recordings, one a forty year old version of Robert Farnon's whimsical Moomin - good to hear it again! Next a jaunty tune The Green Cockatoo by the late Harold Geller and his Orchestra. Brian ended with Eric Jupp's "Beau Geste" with some sprightly string writing. All the music a trip down memory lane from the days of "Steam radio"!

Tony Foster presented The Sid Lawrence orchestra playing Caribbean Clipper with some neat answer and call brass work. Another inspired choice was Urbie Green leading a twenty piece trombone choir with a unique version of Stardust. Third choice André Previn backed by a rousing big band led by Johnny Williams steaming through I only have eyes for you. Tony ended with Robert Farnon's Canadian Caravan from the CD "Canadian impressions" I still treasure the letter Bob sent to me when I enquired where I could get a recording. Bob kindly wrote back saying it was a "Chappell" record not then available to the general public but that he intended to include it on a future Decca L.P. Ah these years later it still thrills!

Next guest was one of the world’s foremost bassoonists, Daniel Smith who told of his visit to Robert Farnon who had written a "Concerto for Bassoon" and needed a player who could improvise jazz on this most unwieldy of instruments! He said that Bob was having trouble with his legs and was very frustrated because he dearly wanted to conduct the composition himself. Daniel said the score was absolutely amazing! Twenty five minutes long in three parts. Bob considered the composition to be his best work ever! Something he had worked on for a long time in his mind.

David Ades played Farnon's version of "Song of Scandia" an arrangement Farnon had written for Bassoon exploring the instrument’s potential. We had a preview of John Wilson's new CD "Dance Date", the chosen tune being an Alan Roper arrangement of "The Lady in Red" which Stan Kenton had a minor hit with in the late fifties. Lastly we heard two from the latest "Guild" collection one being my favourite Harold Arlen tune What's Good about Good-bye played by the magnificent David Rose Orchestra.

The happy gathering dispersed to the sound of Melody Fair, all looking forward to the next meeting.

ONE OF THE MOST ENJOYABLE Peter Burt reports on the latest London meeting at the Bonnington Hotel on Sunday 28th November 2004

As usual some glorious Farnon sounds regaled the ears of members and friends as they took their seats for our 95th London meeting. The choice as our overture this time was Robert Farnon's Hollywood Stars played by the Bratislava Radio Symphony Orchestra conducted by Peter Breiner, on the Vocalion CD "The Wide World of Robert Farnon".

Instead of occupying the co-compere's chair, we were sorry to hear that Albert Killman was languishing in a hospital bed in deepest, darkest Essex. We wished him well as we welcomed his replacement at the music players, André Leon, "literally off the plane from South Africa". The meeting had begun with a few moments of silence in memory of that lovely lady, Joy Fox, who had died in August - and the first music we heard was of her singing Send In The Clowns, accompanied by husband John at the piano. There was to be more of John later.

The programme proper kicked off with Hey There, the title track from the new CD featuring Bob's sensitive settings of familiar compositions and arrangements, especially for Jane Pickles on flute, with Jack Parnell conducting the Royal Philharmonic Strings. This was followed by the opening titles from Bob's music for the film 'Maytime in Mayfair', which David Ades told us had never actually been put out on record.

And so to John Fox. It was a pleasure to be celebrating his 80th birthday and he [very bravely, I thought] shared with us some of his memories and choose some of the music Joy loved. He was introduced with his familiar theme for the BBC Radio Orchestra series 'String Sound': String Magic. He said how his life in music had been a marvellous time playing, composing and arranging the music he loved.

After more String Magic, John told us that he loved fairy tales and played Beautiful Princess and Gallant Prince [two of his 'Characters from The Fairy Tales'], from the CD 'British Light Music Premieres Vol.1' on Dutton Epoch. We then heard Love Walked In, his own favourite of all the songs sung by his beloved wife, who sang professionally as 'Joy Devon'. This was followed by another of his own compositions, Strings in 3/4 [also on the above CD], which caused him to say: "It is a composer's glory to hear his music played just like that. It makes you feel good".

John then reminded us that he was deeply fond of the English countryside and played his A Pastoral Reflection from 'British Light Music Discoveries Vol.5' [ASV White Line]. John's last choice was a real showstopper that brought a smile to our faces: his terrific arrangement of London Pride, a medley of tunes taken from a radio broadcast introduced by Steve Race. John finished by telling us that he was working on an orchestral suite to be called 'The Love Of Joy'. Thank you, John; we hope to see you at our meetings for many more years to come.

The recent CDs section of the programme was a bit short considering the number of new titles on sale. We heard Robert Farnon's Mauve from Vocalion's 'Colours' album featuring Vic Lewis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra; Gary Williams singing You're Sensational from his sensational new album with the John Wilson Orchestra, 'Alone Together', on full-price Vocalion; and Dancing In The Dark, a track from Guild's 'Light Music From The Silver Screen', with the MGM Studio Orchestra conducted by Adolph Deutsch. This conjured up the memorable scene from 'The Band Wagon' of Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse in New York's Central Park - what Denis Norden has described as "one to steam up your bi-focals".

As we came to the first interval and a welcome "cuppa", we learnt that we had in our audience Matthew Curtis [with a new CD out], Eric Parkin, Philip Lane and David Snell. It was David Snell playing the harp on Robert Farnon's Walkin' Happy which accompanied us to the refreshments, anticipating his starring appearance at our next meeting in April 2005.

Our "back to seats" music of segments from Fairy Coach, Concert Jig, Dick's Maggot and Waltz For A Princess gave us the clue that the next presentation was to be another celebration of an octogenarian: the engaging Ernest Tomlinson.

Recalling his appearance at one of our meetings two years ago, Ernest said that this time he wanted to introduce us to some of the lesser-known aspects of his output. So we heard Fantasia On North Country Tunes, commissioned by the Hallé Orchestra in 1978; I'm Late and a vocal version of Little Serenade, from broadcasts in 1959 by the Ernest Tomlinson Music Makers; Cornet Concerto, Concerto For Five [saxophones] and his own favourite self-penned composition, Pastorella from 'The King and the Mermaid'.

Each piece was prefaced by stories of how and why they came to be written. Ernest also talked at some length about Library or Mood music. He told us how it was unpopular with performers because they were only paid for it once, how for 25-30 years the Musicians Union insisted that all recordings of it must be made abroad, and how even such a luminary as Frederic Curzon was blacklisted for conducting it abroad.

From Ernest's own extensive catalogue of Library music we heard Gay And Vivacious and a selection from 'Cartoon Capers': Trickie Quickie, Flitting Along, Enter Villain, Pride And Fall, Cccrash, Quick Ending, Fast Asleep, Flickering Flames and Busy Chatter.

David asked about Ernest's recent broadcast interview with Brian Kay, which prompted him to tell us about how in 1962 he had won prize money of one million liras for writing Symphonica 1962. Ernest admitted that he did not like listening to other music very much as he found that what he heard influenced his own music too much.

One of his many stories was of the lady who, on seeing his name under "Music Arrangers" in the local Yellow Pages, had phoned him to ask whether he could arrange to sell her deceased husband's double bass that she had in the attic. It had been a wonderful hour or so of entertainment from a man whose many styles of music we could only marvel at.

After another interval, and opportunities to investigate the many tempting offers on the RFS Record stall, we were welcomed back to our seats with Robert Farnon's lush arrangement of Do I Hear a Waltz - one of the titles he recorded around 40 years ago for Reader's Digest, which have gradually reappeared piecemeal on various compilations over the years. It would be nice to have all of them on just one CD, supplemented, of course, with some similar material to fill the disc.

Brian Reynolds, is invariably good value for money with his "Radio Recollections" and this time he brought us an Ernest Tomlinson arrangement of a Leroy Anderson Potpourri played in 1958 by Joseph Muscant and his Orchestra; James Warr's Little Lisa played by the BBC Midland Light Orchestra in a Harold Rich [with us in the audience] arrangement conducted by Sverre Bruland, taken from an early morning programme 'Bright and Early' complete with mid-music time check; George Scott Wood and his Music playing Don Roberto by accordionist Albert Delroy; and Pretty Trix written by jazz violinist Joe Venuti and played by the Sidney Sax Strings.

It was good to have the Request Spot again as this used to be a regular feature of our meetings. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, a Farnon arrangement sung by Tony Bennett, was played for Norman Grant. Peter Luck's choice was Oranges and Lemons, arranged by Spike Hughes for the BBC Light Orchestra conducted by Vilem Tausky, and used around 50 years ago at the start of broadcasting on the BBC Light Programme. This came from Tony Clayden's impressive collection of early radio and television memorabilia, into which he has promised to delve deeper for one of our future meetings.

Another highlight of the afternoon - [not!] - was yours truly playing tracks from three releases possibly in the running for "CD Of the Year 2004": Love's Dream After The Ball - Mantovani [Guild], Deep River - Frank Chacksfield [from 'Beyond the Sea'] [Vocalion] and Serenade To A Lemonade - David Rose [Living Era].

Once again David had only time to play two of his own choices: Max Geldray, who had died in October, playing Crazy Rhythm with the Wally Stott Orchestra; and extracts from the forthcoming Guild issue '1950s Volume 2' - Midnight Matinee [Len Stephens], Postman's Knock [Angela Morley], The Magic Touch [Hugo Winterhalter] and Moonlight Fiesta [Winifred Atwell with the Cyril Ornadel Orchestra] with its wonderful horn whoop at the end.

The Leslie Jones Orchestra of London's recording of Melody Fair brought to an end a meeting that, in my opinion, was one of the most enjoyable of recent times. All credit to David and especially André for handling the controls so efficiently, and to Tony Clayden, sound technician extraordinaire, and the London committee.

 Editor: every so often our Society hosts a very special event which is destined to go down as one of the highlights to be fondly remembered by those of us fortunate enough to be present. Such an occasion occurred in April 2004, when Trevor Duncan accepted our invitation to be our Guest of Honour for our Spring London meeting. In the following report, Peter Burt recreates the magic of that memorable weekend.

 All in an April afternoon

 RFS Spring Meeting Report 2004

 Sunday 4^th April and the usual venue of the Bonnington Hotel on London’s Southampton Row. But a rather special meeting as we had as our Guest of Honour a man described by Paul Clatworthy in an earlier report as "music composer supreme", Trevor Duncan.

 There was a larger than usual gathering of members to hear about his career spanning over 50 years and to celebrate his 80^th birthday. His interlocutor was André Leon who, due to his interviewee’s self-effacement, sometimes had to almost answer his own questions. Trevor was led through his life in music as firstly BBC balance engineer then producer [including the ‘Show Band Show’], orchestrator and composer; and was prompted to comment on the music he wrote and people he met along the way.

 He told us how he first came to orchestration through the encouragement of Ray Martin, how prior to that Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade had sent shivers down his spine, and how he loved the sea. When bracketed with John Williams as "going down in history" for one aspect of his music he quipped: "I shall go down in history as not earning as much money as John Williams".

 We had recorded birthday greetings from Ann Dawson, referring to him as "charming and wonderful company", George Barker of Media Music and Peter Cox of KPM.

 And the music? There was High Heels [in three different versions], Tomboy, Making Tracks [aka Homeward Bound, aka 20^th Century Express], Dramatic Pointers, No Place To Hide, Escape Velocity, Quatermass, Panoramic Splendour ["a masterpiece of vision"], Passage To Windward, Overland To Oregon, St. Boniface Down, Girl From Corsica, Mademoiselle Moderne, Waltz For Terri, A Sequence For Sentimentalists, East Side Story, Climb to Altitude, Icicle Ride, Plan 9 From Outer Space, The Unwanted - The Boy, March from ‘A Little Suite’, Folk Tune and Little Debbie. And we had Trevor’s piano party piece of asking for four notes at random from the audience and then turning them into a composition. What riches!

 The afternoon had started with a voice a lot of us would not have heard for years, Donald Peers, singing Bow Bells with Robert Farnon’s Orchestra, from the new ‘A Portrait of Farnon’ Living Era CD. The recording included a nice interpolation of the bells as we used to hear them on the old BBC Home Service.

 Our friend Heinz Herschmann is one of several men about music who were born in 1924 and a birthday tribute in the form of his Fluerette followed. A Farnon number was next, Little Miss Molly, featuring the mellifluous flute of Jane Pickles with the Royal Philharmonic Strings conducted by Jack Parnell – a track from the latest RF sessions, which at the time of writing are still to be put out on disc. After that a forthcoming CD of, this time, old recordings made up Cab Smith’s Swing Session. The CD in question, ‘Showcase for Soloists’, and the tracks were: Travellin’ Jazz [Dennis Wilson], Walkin’ Happy [David Snell] and Trumpet Talk [Kenny Baker and Stan Roderick].

 Another long-time friend and regular attendee at our meetings is John Fox, also celebrating his 80^th birthday this year. It was good to see him again [accompanied by his lovely wife, Joy Devon] and to hear his My Village [from ’Countryside Suite’] played by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by RFS member Gavin Sutherland. This drew spontaneous applause as David told us it had at a recent Bournemouth Gramophone Society meeting where he had been invited to present a programme of light music.

 Unlike in November, new releases did not miss out this afternoon as they were given a good as the first interval approached. Albert and David brought us Heyken’s Serenade, an early Ron Goodwin single on the old Polygon label now restored by Alan Bunting on one of the new Guild ‘The Golden Age of Light Music’ CDs; the very descriptive Busy Streets from Roger Roger’s ‘Whimsical Days’ [Vocalion]; and Siboney, another of those tunes that always seem to get a good recording, this time arranged by Angela Morley and played by Sidney Torch [Living Era].

 We then heard Rose, Rose, I Love You, a sprightly arrangement [Leon Young?] from Frank Chacksfield’s ‘South Sea Island Magic/In the Mystic East’ [Vocalion 2 CDs for the price of 1]; Body and Soul from ‘Delicado’, Mr Bunting’s best-selling double-CD on Living Era of early Percy Faith tracks; Dennis Farnon’s Girl Bird played by The New Concert Orchestra on Vocalion’s ‘Boosey & Hawkes Music Library Volume 1’; Monia Liter and his Orchestra’s Blue Fandango from the highly acclaimed – and not just by me – ‘Lovers in Rome/Lovers in Paris’ [Vocalion]; and, finally, in tribute to another of this year’s 80^th birthday celebrants, Angela Morley, her Captain Nemo Film Theme from RFS member John Wilson and his Orchestra [Vocalion].

 John was with us in the audience [without his orchestra] as were composer Matthew Curtis and Ann Dawson of Boosey Media. In his "parish notices" before we broke for refreshments, David introduced two overseas visitors: James Cahall, all the way from Kentucky just for this meeting, and Sigmund Groven from Oslo.

 The final part of the afternoon brought more Radio Recollections by Brian Reynolds. This time he concentrated solely on recordings he had taken from ‘Music While You Work’ broadcasts: Lavoona [Bernard Monshin and his Rio Tango Band]; Tango Yvonne [Louis Voss and his Kursaal Orchestra]; Toni’s Tune [Michael Freedman and his Orchestra] and Bandarilla [Harold C Gee and his Maritza Players]. Memories for some, possibly almost unknown to others. There were more recent memories as we celebrated the life of the sadly departed Bob Monkhouse, a good friend to light music. We heard an extract from one of his Radio 2 ‘Legends of Light Music’ shows where he introduced RF’s Yes! We Have No Bananas and a very rare 78 of George Melachrino’s Spring Morning [subsequently re-issued on Guild GLCD 5104].

 David got his personal selection in this time as he brought us "The ‘Lost’ CDs" – Farnon recordings that have never been released. These were Pia Zadora singing Little Girl Blue, George Benson with One Goodbye, Eddie Fisher’s Love You Didn’t Do Right By Me, and Catana, a track intended for the Robert Farnon Orchestra’s ’At the Movies’ album. We also heard another item from Bob with Jane Pickles, Piccolo Flight. Albert had the final word telling us that the latest new recruit to the Society was a certain Mr Neil Hefti.

 As David expressed his usual thanks to one and all, especially Tony Clayden, may I in retrospect on behalf of all of us present thank David and Albert for their afternoon’s exertions as our co-hosts.

 Peter Burt