|
What a shock to read of dear Robert’s passing. I am privileged
to have worked with him and recall his lovely warm nature –
what a man! Rosemary Squires, MBE
Over the years Mr. Farnon’s music has, and still does, give
me endless pleasure. I was lucky enough to be present at a live
relay from Norwich of "Journey Into Melody", the Sunday
afternoon programme on the old BBC Light Programme, in which Robert
conducted the BBC Midland Light Orchestra. After this hour we were
invited to stay for another concert which was recorded for transmission
on the BBC Overseas Service. For me, Bob Farnon was a lost link
with a musical world which – alas – is no more. He will
forever be associated with the great light music masters, David
Rose, Andre Kostelanetz, Arthur Fiedler and our own Eric Coates.
Thanks to record labels such as Vocalion and the Guild ‘Golden
Age of Light Music’ series, I can still enjoy the music of
the masters, of which Robert Farnon must rank as one of the finest.
R.C. Wilkinson
On behalf of all the members of the West Midlands Branch of the
Sinatra Music Society, I would like to offer our condolences to
Pat and all the family of Robert Farnon on their sad loss. If it
is any consolation, we will have the wonderful legacy of music and
recordings to enjoy and remember Robert. Phil Suffolk
I was saddened and shocked to hear of Robert Farnon's passing.
The ABC's (Australia) "Classic FM" station mentioned it today (30/04/05)
on the "Scene" programme and played two of his best known compositions
"Westminster Waltz" and "Jumping Bean". In a way, here was a background
to my youth, it was only much later that I found out who had penned
the melodies. His work will live on. Rick Ashworth
I, too, was saddened to learn of Robert Farnon's recent passing.
I only became aware of his music recently when his brother, Brian,
and wife, Gloria, moved to our community and became active in our
local music scene. Brian has lent me numerous recordings of Robert's
music, and I have been delighted by it. As director of the College
of Southern Idaho Wind Ensemble, I am happy to report that we were
able to program two of Robert's pieces, Westminster Waltz
and Derby Day, on our March 2005 concert, with Brian joining
us in the clarinet section. Both the audience and the band members
thoroughly enjoyed these pieces, and I am anxious to program more
of his music on our concerts. I offer my deepest and sincerest condolences
to Robert's family. George K. Halsell, Professor of Music, College
of Southern Idaho
The wonderful work of the RFS has been crucial in securing the future,
not only of Robert Farnon’s name and reputation, but of all
the many recordings that have now become an historic and enduringly
valuable and valued archive. It is very sad to bid mortal farewells
to distinguished figures and close friends, but it is wonderful
when they leave a great legacy of creations and recreations. We
are very fortunate and must guard and foster it well. Long may the
RFS flourish! Terence Gilmore-James
For lovers of light music Robert Farnon’s passing is a great
loss, however we have the consolation that ‘the melodies linger
on’. Olga and Norman Jackson
I just have no words that can describe what this sad news brings.
One of the true greatest arranger of all times has left us... he
was the foundation, the path to which every major arranger followed.
He was a cathedral, he was the most innovative and daring arranger
of his time and beyond. I send my warmest condolences to the Farnon
family and to all of us, the Farnon musical family... I shall never
forget him and he'll continue to be a huge part of my life. Jorge
Estrada
Thank goodness for the medium of recorded sound, ensuring that
the music of our all-time great Robert Farnon will live on forever.
At Bob’s passing the world will never seem quite the same.
Bill Watts
So sad to hear about Robert Farnon. It’s now up to all of
us to conserve the musical legacy he has left to history. Robin
King
I met Bob in the Golders Green Hippodrome in 1974 when he conducted
the BBC Concert Orchestra. I was a musician in the army at that
time and I had to play a bassoon Solo. He came up to me after the
performance and said how much he liked it. It was an arrangement
of a piece by Gilbert Vinter, also a bassoonist. Alan Rutherford
As an early founding Member in the 50's when my friend Ken Head
formed the Robert Farnon Appreciation Society, it is hard to accept
that our Icon Bob as we knew him, has left us aged 87 years leaving
behind many happy memories of those meetings held in London sharing
his and our love of Light Music. In those early years he always
left us with a 78rpm Vinyl record with two of his latest compositions
of light music. How we treasured these records. Having left England
to live in Australia in 1969, I sadly missed those RFAS meetings
in London with fellow music lovers. Gladly I learnt that the Society
still flourished and had grown and renamed the ROBERT FARNON SOCIETY
which appreciates all light music.
' If Music be the Food of Love play on '
As Bob died on the eve of Shakespeare's death on 24th April I think
the above quotation is a fitting epitaph for Bob. He gave us the
food and love of his music and we his admirers will continue to
play it. As Shakespeare gave so much to England and the World through
his literature, so has Robert Farnon given so much to England and
the World through his music. May Shakespeare have the last word
as we bid farewell to a much loved friend and talented musician.
'Our revels now are ended: these our actors (As I foretold you)
were all spirits, and Are melted into air, thin air, And like the
baseless fabric of this vision, The cloud - capped Towers, the gorgeous
Palaces, The solemn Temples, The great Globe itself, Yea, all which
it inherit, shall dissolve, And like this insubstantial pageant
faded Leave not a rack behind : we are such stuff As dreams are
made on ; and our little life Is rounded with a sleep.'
Bob may you REST IN PEACE. May flights of angels sing thee to thy
rest. ALLELUIA.
I am sure Ken Head will be waiting for you to form the Robert Farnon
Society in Heaven !
Roy Shannon
Deepest Sympathy on the loss of Robert Farnon. He was a distant
cousin of mine. I have an extensive Farnon Family tree. I was the
youngest of 5 Farnons born in 1943 in Dublin, Ireland. I live in
Georgia now. Good Luck with keeping his music with us. I hear his
music frequently on 904 channel on TV while we are playing cards.
Dianne nee Farnon Kenny
I received my copy of the special edition. I didn't know Robert as
many of you did of course but after years and years of loving
his music I feel the loss, I really do. I was listening this
morning to "The wide world of Robert Farnon". I love the whole
thing but I especially love "I Saw My Lady Weep" it's so exquisitely
beautiful, there is a poignancy to it that really moves me. I'm
so sad on the one hand but so glad that I managed to find the society
before he left us. I was reading the lovely articles that had
been written in remembrance of him, and it is amazing to me that
nearly everyone remembers the first time they heard "Portrait of
a Flirt"; it seems the lights went on for all of us with that particular
joyous piece. I had high hopes of being able to find out whether
or not he remembered my Uncle Leonard doing session work with him.
Doubtful really when he knew so many fine musicians. Not to
worry that wasn't meant to be, I don't believe that death is
the end anyway and who knows we might all meet up one lovely day
by "Lake Louise", or on "The Magic Island." Until then,
I'll continue to add to my collection, my life will be the better
for it. Hope you don't mind me sharing a few thoughts with
you here and there I haven't got any one else to talk to about
it, it's frustrating. There is a community radio Station here and
there's a nice English announcer on there once a week and I know
by his selection, (Nostalgia and light Music) that he would
probably play some of my RF CD's if I asked him really nicely.
He has his programme on Thursday and I spoke to the Station Manager
and he has agreed that it's a good idea. So who knows. Cathy
Frank
I was saddened to learn of Robert Farnon's passing as I had hoped
to meet him when my wife and I visit England in a few years time.
My great love and appreciation of his music and that of his contemporaries
has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. As Philip
Brady reminded us in his tribute "the melody lingers on" and such
beautiful melodies they are too. From all accounts Robert was a
truly wonderful man who enjoyed bringing happiness into the lives
of others through his music. A life of great fulfilment. Chris
Guy
With great emotion I received the sad news of Robert Farnon; he
was a genius of wonderful British music. Roland Buchholz
What a shock when I returned from holiday! We left on April 22nd and
returned to a full-on computer crash on May 10th, so I did not know
the bad news until I opened the special magazine. What a terrible
thing to happen, especially as the report from Daniel Smith at the
April meeting indicated that he was reasonably O.K. Please accept
our condolences, and trust that everything goes OK with the
Farnon Family. At least we have a wonderful legacy that we can continue
to enjoy until our day arrives. The very first LP that I bought
with Birthday money was "Something to Remember you by", and that
got me started, first into buying records, and then into the Music
business with the dance-band, and then my own band up here in Skegness
- 38 years in all.
Bev Mastin
It has long seemed remiss of me as a proud member of The Robert
Farnon Society, not to express my appreciation of what being a member
of the Society has meant to me. Along with most of the members listening
to Robert's music now, reminds me vividly of my teenage years when,
according to my state of mind, my sadness, happiness, joy or aspirations,
his music painted pictures which have stayed in my mind ever since
and I know always will. He has, for sixty years been MY
COMPOSER and (and this may sound opinionated) I am proud
to have been blessed with such good taste in music at so early an
age. Robert, somehow, along with other great men, seemed indestructible.
Surely God would not rob us of so great and ongoing a talent. Yet
God gave us the pleasures of that talent and I reckon He thought
that it was about time that Robert composed some music for him -
that, I am sure, is happening. Along with the sad news of Robert's
death, I must admit there came an apprehension that the Society
might now fold. How pleased I am to know that this will not happen.
Thank you for the Special Tribute Edition, which I will treasure.
Until things find a level there will be difficult times ahead but
I am sure that Robert's musical legacy is too great for his Appreciation
Society not to continue to thrive. Terry Stowe
I was saddened to read of the death of Robert Franon. I am sure
he will be greatly missed by all music lovers. He has left us with
a great legacy of beautiful music and wonderful memories. John
Woodland
Robert Farnon was the best composer and arranger of light music
ever. Richard Crew
I feel very saddened by Robert's passing. His compositions and
performances introduced me to the joys of light music while I was
in my teens. John Leeming
I would like to send my condolences. I am sure that Robert Farnon’s
spirit will live on through his music for many years to come. Michael
J. Comley
I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Robert Farnon. The
news was still sinking in, days after I received the Special Tribute
Issue of ‘Journal Into Melody’. I cannot add to the sentiments
already expressed, except to say how proud I feel to be a member
of the Society that bears his name. I never met him in person, but
I feel I’ve always known him through his wonderful and unique
music and from the warm and endearing portraits of him painted by
contributors to JIM over the years. Gordon Moritz
Receiving the Special Tribute Issue of JIM made me think back to
the days of the wireless, when I heard Robert Farnon’s music
for the first time – like ‘Jumping Bean’ and ‘Portrait
of a Flirt’. In those days money was hard to save, but I did
and bought the 78. Today I am still collecting his music, which
to me paints pictures – such as ‘A La Claire Fontaine’
which reminds me of the New Forest. He had a rare gift to transmit
lovely music and arrangements. John R. Harrison
I suppose we all knew that we would hear the sad news one day,
but always hoped it would be well into the future. Bob has left
behind a most remarkable treasury of compositions, arrangements
and recordings. Jerry Hicken
I have known Robert Farnon’s music since the days when he
appeared on "Friday Night is Music Night". I love his
music, which I find so relaxing. Colin J. Fairbairn
Although Bob Farnon was a good age, I was naturally very sorry
to hear that he would be writing and composing no more. As an international
statesman of western music, he was unique, as was the year he first
came to my attention, 1944, when the formation of the Allied Expeditionary
Force signalled that the end of the European part of World War 2
was in sight. That brightening time, as yet still free of commercial
pressures, also gave a wonderful showcase and opportunity to the
other two AEF bandleaders and musical statesmen, Glenn Miller and
George Melachrino. We didn’t foresee then that the end of the
war would soon mean the end of both big bands and light orchestras
as main providers of the music of the day. Looking back, Bob had
the stature of a musical Churchill, and Miller the magic of a Tuneful
Roosevelt. Our own Melachrino was more of a melodious Atlee –
big at the time, but not destined to be remembered so long. Allan
Bula
I cannot claim this great privilege in the normally accepted sense,
yet Bob spoke directly to me through his music for the first time
when I would have been about six or seven years old – and he
has done so scores of times since then. Some composers grab one
by the scruff (musically speaking) and shake hard; others ingratiate;
others hold one at arm’s length, or put up rolls of barbed
wire or build impenetrable stone walls. Robert Farnon held out his
hand to me through his sparkling cameos – ‘Portrait of
a Flirt’ and ‘Jumping Bean’ – all those years
ago and said, as so often since: "Here I am. Here you are.
Good to know you. I’m your friend." John Govier
It seemed as if Robert Farnon would always be there. The world
has lost a musical giant, but we are fortunate to have his great
legacy of music to enjoy. Pierre de Bie
The Special Tribute Edition of ‘Journal Into Melody’
was very much appreciated. The tribute in the weekly ‘The Stage’
included a very nice photo of Robert, just as we remember him. Robert
Brown
The tributes to Bob in the Special Issue of the magazine were wonderful.
I think the word ‘approachable’ is just so right. I remember
when I met him that he really made me feel that he enjoyed meeting
me, and having his photo taken. It is so important that his music
will be with us forever, and I hope that in due course he will have
a fitting memorial to his long lifetime and the legacy which he
has given to the world of music. Jennifer Cundall
Like so many, I loved Robert Farnon`s music from a very
early age. I heard it used on "Dick Barton" when the plot moved
to Canada ("Jumping Bean" & "Canadian Caravan") and "Portrait
of a Flirt", "Manhattan Playboy" etc.,were, as you well know, used
on so many occasions on radio and at the cinema on newsreels and
documentaries. I don`t think his music will ever
date or cease to please. I’m sad that, unlike
some other members of the RFS I never met him but the love and respect
felt by so many gives me a very good word-painting of a great composer
and a lovely person. My gratitude once again to
everyone who works so hard in running a wonderful society and make
great music available to us. Alec Adcock
It was with great sorrow that I heard of the death of Robert Farnon.
Without knowing it, Bob Farnon has played a very important role
in my life. I was called up in 1946 and in '48 was posted
to the British Forces Network in Hamburg, Germany as a trainee announcer.
I eventually ended up presenting the BBC's "Two-Way Family Favourites"
with Jean Metcalfe. It wasn't long before I realised that there
was no DJ on German radio so I applied for the job and got it.
The first show in '53 was a sensation - partly because of the music
and partly because of my horrific British accent. I didn't
have a theme tune, however, so when a copy of "Melody Fair" arrived
(from Decca, I believe) it was love at first hear. By this
time (1954) I was broadcasting in German from Cologne and Robert
Farnon introduced every show until 1961 when I transferred to television.
Of course, he came along too and stayed with me until 1970. In
the years that followed, he also accompanied me to Mallorca, to
Kiel, to Berlin and now, fifty years after his first play in '54,
we're back on WDR Cologne radio again. It's been quite a long
ride. I love his music and the Germans love "Melody Fair" too.
Unfortunately it's pretty difficult to get CDs of his work over
here which is one of the reasons I'm writing to you. I'd love
a copy of "Journey into Melody" and assume that it will contain
details of how I can obtain some more of his work. He was
a great composer and arranger and his brilliance has always inspired
me. He will, I'm sure, be sorely missed as a person but I
reckon his music will go on for ever. Chris Howland
The greatest musician of all time, Bob Farnon, has left us a magnificent
library of music that will live forever. Music (and I mean real
music) is to the mind what water is to the body. Bob’s music
cleans and refreshes and just makes you feel Great. Bob’s gift
– and what a gift it is – that made so many people happy,
and will continue to do so. I feel so proud and humble to be part
of any organisation that will ensure his music takes its place in
history. John Strange
I first encountered Bob’s music when I listened to "In
Town Tonight" on Saturday evenings. I was later to hear his
compositions in full in "Music While You Work" and was
impressed and interested further. Bob’s music has always had
different effects on me. It has been relaxing, stimulating and even
surprising. Many other composers have tried to imitate his style.
Some have got very close, but did not quite equal the Great Man.
The world of music has suffered a great loss in his passing. I always
found Bob to be so approachable, pleasant and placid in his manner,
and ever the gentleman and a gentle man. A great musical light has
been extinguished. Heaven now has the pleasure and benefit of his
talents. Brian Coleman
On behalf of my family I would like to say how sorry we were to
hear of the death of Robert Farnon. Our thoughts and prayers go
to his family. It is wonderful to know that writers and broadcasters
will always keep his wonderful music alive. The likes of Robert
Farnon and Nelson Riddle will be with us forever. Tony Webb
Fortunately we in the USA were exposed to the beautiful and moving
music of Robert Farnon. It was over the radio, primarily WQXR in
New York City. "Journey Into Melody" was a theme used
for some time for their ‘Dinner Concert’. Robert Farnon
wrote melodies that were memorable – not just good tunes. My
sincere condolences to his family and all you good people in the
RFS. With our Society, Bob will always live. Herbert George
An important light music link for me in New Zealand is Brian Kay’s
weekly BBC Radio-3 programme, via the internet. It was from there
on a Friday evening in May that I learned the sad news of Bob’s
passing the previous weekend. For the past ten years, I’ve
also had a weekly music programme – ‘Sounds Easy’.
It goes out live for three hours on a Saturday, so I quickly ‘re-jigged’
things to arrange a short tribute for the following morning. Listeners
would certainly have recognised the name since I regularly play
light music, much of it with a Farnon connection. As well as the
tribute pieces, the 9am ‘Saturday March’ spot provided
an opportunity for ‘Derby Day’. In the early 1960s, I
met Bob a couple of times at London meetings, and was relieved to
find a relaxed, affable personality who perfectly matched the music
I’d grown to love. I intend to write more about light music
in my life, but for now, simply join with everyone in lamenting
the loss of a quiet but towering personality in the world of fine
music. Peter Richardson
To my mind Robert Farnon was a musical genius, and it’s difficult
to think of anyone who could match him for being so prolific. He
had such a fertile musical brain which was always ready to commit
pen to paper. What a vast treasure-trove of material in terms of
film scores, compositions, arrangements, symphonic works, radio
and television themes – no wonder he was so revered. R.W.
Bartlett
First of all, let me offer my condolences to everyone for the loss
of a great man, Robert Farnon. As the saying points out that one
man's death diminishes everyone else's life... I enjoyed his music
and will use his recordings as a benchmark of what truly great music
can do for all of us. Richard Jessen
The sad news of Robert Farnon's passing was announced soon after
my arrival in England on holiday on 23 April, the day he died.
This date is also, of course, St George's Day, so I certainly
won't forget the date. Although I never met Robert Farnon personally,
I felt I knew him thanks to the RFS, of which I have been a member
for many years. His name and music always conjure up happy thoughts
of times gone by when his music was played and he conducted orchestras
on the many BBC Light Programme radio sessions, particularly on
Sunday afternoons. His recorded legacy means I can enjoy much of
his music whenever I want to and I am particularly grateful to the
record companies who have reissued so much of his work, particularly
the classic Decca LPs, on CD over the last few years. The emotions
the music evokes are sometimes extremely intense. As time goes
by, all too quickly, more and more of the talented composers/arrangers/orchestra
leaders and musicians pass on so it was inevitable that, one day,
Robert Farnon would join them. Although sad that Robert Farnon has
gone, I am grateful and feel so lucky that I lived in an era when
his music attained the recognition and popularity it deserved. Long
may his reputation be perpetuated through the continuation of the
Robert Farnon Society. Michael Beaumont
I was so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing…. In Hull, in
1944, at the age of 17 I heard the Canadian Band of the AEF for
the first time, and have been a fan of Robert Farnon’s music
and arrangements ever since. In 1944/45 they were wonderful years
for music, together with the British and American bands, despite
the war. I was so pleased to meet Bob for few minutes in Brentford,
Ontario when he visited Canada a few years ago, and he told me that
his mother also came from Hull. Thank-you for the Special Issue
in May – a wonderful tribute. Norman Leisk
I was deeply honoured that Robert Farnon chose me for what is now
his final musical composition. Over the past months, we had been
in touch frequently as the music took shape. Robert expressed often
to me his enthusiasm and excitement about his new bassoon concerto
and for him it represented a new lease on life and renewed purpose
at a time when he took ill. I flew twice to Guernsey to discuss
and go over the music with him, and along with working on the music,
we spoke of many other things; his friends and colleagues over the
years, his beloved wife, children and grandchildren, the importance
of music and the arts, my own life experiences and along the way
had a lot of good laughs. To me he seemed like someone 87 years
old going on 35, full of enthusiasm and hope. There was never a
moment of pessimism or negativity, just a great need to move forward
and create something beautiful for the world to experience. Daniel
Smith
On behalf of the Sinatra Music Society, the national committee of
same send their condolences on the recent death of Robert Farnon.
Because of your appreciation of Robert Farnon’s life, work
and career, we feel sure that your society will continue to flourish
and give pleasure to your many members, as the SMS has done, since
Sinatra’s death. Margaret Cummings, secretary
Whe I was given the new that Bob had passed away, I was left with
a feeling of dismay and utter disbelief, and that I had lost a dear
friend. Bob was truly a gentle gentleman – an absolute musical
genius, and we shall never see his like again. He has left us a
wonderful legacy, and his music will live on and remain in all our
hearts for ever. Thank you Bo, rest in peace. Edna Foster
As a comparative newcomer to the Robert Farnon Society, and also
one of the younger members, it was such a shock to hear of Bob’s
passing. I only met and spoke with him once, at a meeting a few
years ago, but I soon realised what a genuinely friendly and sincere
person he was, and he really made me feel sat ease. In the eight
years that I have attended the meetings at the Bonnington Hotel,
I have come to both learn more about his music, and love those lush
orchestral sounds, more so each time I listen to them. What a legacy
he has left to us all, and indeed the world. He will be sorely missed.
Tony Foster
I would like to add my deep sorrow at the passing of Bob Farnon.
Although I never had the good fortune to meet the man I feel through
the pages of JIM I had come to learn a tremendous amount about his
life and music. We are lucky to have so much of his wonderful music
on disc. The one thing that must continue is the ‘Journal Into
Melody’ magazine. The capable team is providing an immense
service for us all. Long may it continue. Colin A. Adamson
Dateline June 2005
MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE
Below we include just a small selection of
the many messages we received as news of Bob’s passing reached
music lovers around the world. Some are from non-members of our
Society, who simply wanted to express their sorrow. Others preferred
to remain anonymous. All of them reflect the sadness we all feel,
yet there is also a strong sense of gratitude towards Robert Farnon
for the legacy of wonderful music that he has left to us all.
The best music I ever heard from Great Britain was composed by
Robert Farnon. Tony Bennett, speaking to Derek Boulton as soon
as he heard the sad news
We’re devastated to hear the very sad news about Bob. He hadn’t
yet heard a performance of his new symphony. I'm still trying to
take in that Bob is no longer with us. I always thought that he
and I would live for ever! Angela
Morley
I am still in shock. I had just finished practicing his bassoon
concerto and was taking a break when I saw the heading of your email
and knew right away what had happened. When I spoke to him two days
ago, he was extremely enthused about the piece and looking forward
to seeing it being premiered next year. If I was back in the UK
I would want to show up at any memorial service but I am here in
Brooklyn right now. Please add my name to anything in print if this
is to be part of a testimonial to his memory. Very sad and unexpected.
Daniel Smith
Robert made laugh many times over the years, but
this is the only time he made me cry. He told me that one of the
greatest honours in his life was the creation of the Robert Farnon
Society. He will be sadly missed. Dorothy Head
Sad news - regarding dear Bob. I first knew him
in 1967 when I used to collect music from the Mayfair Hotel, London
for his BBC Radio Orchestra sessions at the Camden Theatre. John
Dunn was the announcer, I seem to remember. Tony Bennett was a guest
singer. I remember the sessions well - everything was magic with
these superb arrangements he did for his BBC recordings. Collectors’
items. Only yesterday I received a PRS Distribution payment - with
details of a Library CD I produced for Amphonic Music Ltd. - which
included titles by Bob. Indeed, his music will linger on. Indeed,
his music will linger on. A great and kind person. Tim Wills
Robert Farnon was one of my two greatest musical
influences. The other was Serge Rachmaninov, who once said "Music
is enough for a lifetime but a lifetime is not enough for music".
I know Bob would have agreed. Tony Osborne
I was so very sorry to learn that Bob Farnon had
passed away. Please convey my condolences to his family. Robert
Farnon was a giant of the 20th and 21st Century. It was a great
privilege to have known him. His Music will remain with us throughout
the present Century and beyond. He was such a multi-talented human
being, a kind gentleman and master of his profession. He will be
sorely missed by all who had the good fortune to know him. May he
rest in peace. Cyril Ornadel
What a shock to hear of the passing of our beloved
Robert Farnon. He was a giant of the genre, and will live always
in our memories, and in the wonderful recordings he has left us.
Rest in Peace, dear Robert. Neil
I cannot tell you how saddened I am to hear
the news of Robert's passing. I have sent the news direct to Mr.
Bennett's NYNY office even though I am sure they will have the news.
Our thoughts are with 'The Guvnor's' Family at this time. Condolences,
Mark & Margaret Fox [Tony Bennett Society]
Words cannot express my sorrow at the passing of
our beloved friend and mentor. Robert Farnon was our inspiration;
we have lost our most cherished Patron. He was treasured like family.
Philip Brady
I am very sorry to hear the sad news. Robert Farnon's
passing is indeed the end of an era. I will pass on the news to
Reuben and Gary Haberman. Please convey the condolences of all the
South Afrcan members to Mrs Farnon. Sydney Becker
Yes it is a sad time, but his music lives on. My
own knowledge and appreciation of light music has increased tremendously
thanks to the compositions of Robert Farnon and the work of the
Robert Farnon Society. I wish that Robert Farnon's work will continue
to become more widely known and appreciated around the World. I
pass on my condolences to his family and friends, and to the society.
Tommy Wylie
Sorry to learn of the sad news. The end of a 'Legend'.
Gareth Bramley
So sorry to hear this sad news - the end of an
era indeed. Also, particularly sad that Bob passed away before the
premiere of his new symphony. At least he knew it was going to take
place, but very upsetting nonetheless. Things won't be the same
for the society, but I'm sure you'll go from strength to strength
promoting light music and keeping Bob's name in the public eye.
Adam Saunders
I have just seen the announcement about Robert
Farnon on the BBC website. I am very sorry indeed. Sincerest
condolences, Noel Kent
Just learnt the sad news....now I appreciate more
than ever what a great privilege it was to be there and meet "The
Guv'nor" on his 80th birthday at the Bonnington. Nigel
Burlinson
I have just read on the "beautifulinstrumentals"
newsgroup, that Bob has passed on. I am deeply saddened at this
news, and I called Philip Brady to let him know. It is Saturday
night here and Phil told me that he will fax you overnight.
Would you please pass on my sincere condolences to Bobs' family
and to all members of the RFS at this sad time. Tomorrow
night I will have a small tribute to Bob and his life in music.
Alex Hehr (Golden Days Radio) Melbourne
Viens d'apprendre la triste nouvelle du décès
de robert farnon. Veuillez transmettre mes sincères condoléances
à sa famille et à vos amis de la société
Robert Farnon. Hélàs encore un grand musicien
du siècle passé qui disparaît!
On se sent orphelin. pour vous et les vôtres toute
ma sympathie en ce moment de tristesse et de deuil. Madame Roger
Roger, Eva Rehfuss
So sorry to hear of the passing of Mr Farnon at
age 87 - a musical genius. Anthony Wills, former BBC Producer
I have just read your email, and naturally I feel
so dreadfully sad to learn of Robert Farnon's passing. Thank
you so very much for letting me know so quickly. Once again,
I am naturally immensely saddened by this news. Geoffrey
Cross
Everything has been said about the great Robert
Farnon. The only new thing to say today is the thing we all secretly
hoped to postpone for years to come: he is no more with us.
But he still is and we will stay close to this most gifted and gentle
man by performing his superb music. Did he speak to us last night,
Montreal time ? We were watching a non-scheduled movie with another
Canadian, Donald Sutherland and we waited till the very end to know
who had composed the music. It was Robert Farnon. The title : The
Disappearance. Understand that we are in a state of shock.
Our prayers are with you, the immediate family and the international
family who loved the Guv. Marc Fortier et Hélène
Fortier
He will never be replaced as the finest writer
for strings in the world of popular and light music. I like many
others in the Society,grew up with his unique sound.May I add my
sympathy to his wife and family. Phil Napier
Very sad news indeed. I am sorry for the community's
loss. Please try not to let this stop you from continuing to document
his legacy. Tim Weston
Just to say how sad I was to learn of Robert's
death and I offer condolences to his family. He was widely respected
and leaves a legacy of wonderful music which will live forever and
his memory will also be perpetuated through the Society. David
Nathan, National Jazz Archive
What a tragic loss. Our sincerest sympathy. Bob
and Pam Haber
I must express my personal deep sorrow at dear
Bob's passing. I will never forget that one solitary day with
him, when I played (with the dear old BBC Midland Light Orchestra,
with Bob conducting) Douglas Gamley's "Summer Festival Waltz". That
day will stay in my memory forever.... as will a note which Bob
wrote to me, later, and I will always treasure the recording of
it. Harold Rich
Very sad for us all. I spoke to David Jacobs today
who had already written a letter to the family. Gary Williams
Oh what a sad day! Every once in awhile I would
give Robert a call, hating to bother him in case he was writing but
aching to have even a short chat. He was always go gracious
and honestly seemed pleased that I called. He has
long been one of my special heroes and his contribution to the wonderful
world of music is endless and untouchable. I won't be
making those phone calls anymore but I have his music to listen
to for now and forever. Marlene joins me in extending our deepest
regrets to you, the society, and all the world. J. Billy
VerPlanck
It was such a shock to see the notice of Bob's
death. There was a full page article on his life and his great
achievements in one of our national newspapers - but it was with
a very heavy heart that I read the news. Am so grateful
we were able to make even that small connection again through your
Society - it meant such a lot to know he still remembered those
days with affection. What a full and productive
life he lived, doing what he was born to do, and the
wonderful music will be such a legacy for future generations.
I know a light will have gone out for so many of you and do
send my deep condolences. Alixe Wallis (Kathran Oldfield)
Thank you for letting me know the very sad news,
it was quite a shock especially as I just discovered that Sir John
Mills had also passed on, another favourite of mine. Adam Endacott
Thank you so much, David, for including me on the
mailing list reporting this very sad news. I immediately wrote a
brief obit which I've placed on the Message Board of the 1950s
Nostalgia website Whirligig - http://www.whirligig-tv.co.uk/index.htm as
follows:
I have sad news to report, that Robert Farnon died
today. The RF Society has announced that he passed away peacefully
in the early hours of this morning. Captain Bob Farnon came to England
with the Canadian Band of the AEF, along with his American counterpart,
Glenn Miller. After the war he stayed in the UK and embarked on
what would be a most distinguished career in music, composing, arranging
and conducting his own orchestra on countless albums. Early assignments
were writing the scores for films, such as the Herbert Wilcox productions
starring Anna Neagle & Michael Wilding (Spring In Park Lane
etc), 'Just William' films - and in later years 'Shalako', 'Road
To Hong Kong' and 'Captain Horatio Hornblower'. In the 1940s and
1950s he arranged and conducted for the Decca label, accompanying
artistes such as Gracie Fields, Anne Shelton, Denny Denis and Vera
Lynn, and in the album era his orchestrations would be in demand
by a number of great American vocalists, including Frank Sinatra,
Lena Horne, Tony Bennett & Sarah Vaughan - and he also arranged
and conducted albums by 'Singers Unlimited', George Shearing, Rawicz
& Landauer and Jose Carreras. Farnon composed many light music
cameos for Chappell Music Publishers, primarily for use as background
music in newsreels etc, but many of these pieces were recorded by
Bob's and other orchestras, and often became familiar through their
use as radio and TV signature tunes. Among his compositions that
will be well known to many of us on Whirligig are 'Portrait Of A
Flirt', 'Jumping Bean', 'Journey Into Melody', 'Melody Fair', 'Westminster
Waltz' and 'Manhattan Playboy'. He won a Grammy Award in 1996 for
an arrangement recorded by jazz trombonist J.J.Johnson, and was
also the recipient of several Ivor Novello Awards - including the
theme for the TV series, 'Colditz'. Many of Robert Farnon's Decca
albums are currently available on CD from Vocalion Records. A sad
loss to the world of music. Brian Henson
You can imagine what sad
news for me was the passing away of our dear Robert Farnon.
I send to you, and his family, my condolences. Serge
Elhaik
What sad news to wake up to here on a Sunday morning.
I was alerted to the news by email from Jeff Sultanof, via John
Pickworth, the text of which I have attached [Editor – see
message below]. Although, of course, I never knew Mr. Farnon
personally, I have been a devotee of his music since my earliest
days in radio (1957) when I became aware of, and had access to,
the great Chappell mood music library at 3AW. I hope and trust the
Robert Farnon Society will go on and continue to flourish in memory
of a great man. In the meantime, it is only appropriate to send
condolences to you, your colleagues in the Society and to the members
of Mr. Farnon's family. The music world is a much better place because
of the contribution of Robert Farnon over many years. Graham
Miles
I have just received word that Robert Farnon has
passed away in Guernsey at the age of 87. Several of us have had
threads on Farnon, so I won't repeat what was already written. I
will say that in many ways, because I got to work intimately with
his music in creating over 50 new corrected scores, that it was
like an advanced degree in arranging. I got to study with a master,
and this will always be an important part of my life. My anger and
frustration are that his work never was properly engraved and published
in his lifetime, because I could never get the funding to complete
this phase of the project. Perhaps this can still be done. I'm too
emotional to write anymore, especially since we've covered this
ground elsewhere. Jeff Sultanof
I am so sorry to hear of Robert's passing today.
It must be a very sad day for you, personally and all friends and
members of the Society. Please accept my sincere condolences. Although
I did not know Robert, his music and memories will live in my mind forever.
My very best wishes to you, at this sad time. Paul Durston
Just received the bad news - Please Relay my Deepest
Sympathy to Bob's Family. - It is a most sad time. Mike Redstone
Sad news, indeed, but for us, not for him, now
that he is liberated from this world of pain and darkness. I know
nothing about his personal life, but there is no doubt that it was
well fulfilled in his art. We may mourn his loss, the lack of his
physical presence, but he will live in our hearts forever through
his magnificent music. Enrique Renard
Thank you for the message I least wanted to hear.
A great light has been extinguished in Bob's passing. My thoughts
and prayers are with his family at this sad time. Geoffrey Lord
Robert Farnon was a wonderful master of melody
and one of the all time greats of light music. He is simply irreplaceable.
I have loved his music for over fifty years since first I heard
him on the old BBC Home Service in about 1952. R.I.P. William
Brown
I am so sorry to learn of his passing. The last
of the great light orchestral personalities has left us, but has
left behind a wonderful legacy. We shall always be grateful to Bob
Farnon and others of his kind who have given us so much pleasure
down the years. Colin Mackenzie
Very sad indeed to hear this unwelcome news.
As you know, via my father I knew Bob well and have particularly
treasured the memory of a short holiday I spent at La Falaise in
1964 during which he was kindness and understanding personified.
Clearly he was also one of the finest composers of the modern age
and I take pride in the fact that his music has enriched
the lives of arguably many millions of music lovers the world over,
and increasingly is likely to do so for generations hence. A very
sad event has occurred as we have all lost a good friend who
was also one of the giants of really beautiful music. Paddy
Dunn
What sad news. My Father (Tony Osborne) and
Uncle Bob are both very saddened by the news. Gary Osborne
Our mutual friend, Peter Appleyard, called me yesterday
morning to tell me of the death of Robert. My wife, Barbara,
and I were shocked and greatly saddened by the tragic loss of such
a great musician, and such a dear friend. An incredible loss
to the world of music, and to so many people. Robert and I have
had regular communication - mainly telephone calls and facsimiles
- over the last decade that has been personal and musical.
We have had regular discussions regarding one of his last compositions, Wind
Symphony: "The Gaels," that I have been contracted to conduct at
the Performing Arts Centre, Newark, New Jersey, USA in the Spring
of 2006. I was greatly honoured and moved when Robert called
me on Monday, August 14th 2004 to tell me that he was dedicating
the work to me. Barbara, whom Robert frequently addressed affectionately
as 'Lady Barbara,' joins me in sending our sympathy and condolences
to you on the loss of your dear friend and colleague. Incidentally,
the very last work that I programmed and conducted in my twenty-seven
year tenure as Musical Director and Conductor of the Brantford Symphony
Orchestra was Robert's Suite, "Captain Horatio Hornblower,
R.N." that I dedicated to Robert, and the third movement of
the Suite, "Lady Barbara,' to my wife. Dr. Stanley Saunders
I was deeply saddened to learn about the passing
of Robert Farnon. It is a great loss to the world of music, and
to all of us who had the privilege to know him personally. He was
a wonderful man and his contribution to music was unique –
the world will be a poorer place without him.
Sigmund Groven
What a sad loss to music this is, it seems as if
all the greats are departing this world one by one these days. One
thing we do have though is the marvellous recordings of his works
and our memories of the great man. Steven Wills
I need hardly tell you how sad I feel at the
moment to be informed of Robert's passing. His gift of music and
conducting was masterful and he will be missed by the many that
appreciated his beautiful and tuneful music. Ron & Tammy
Mace
I was grieved to hear of the death of Mr. Robert
Farnon. He was a very important and well loved person. He will be
missed by many. I would like to know you have my deepest sympathy
in your bereavement. Yoshiki Nakano
As I've stated previously in the RFS journal, Bob virtually taught
me everything I know about writing for strings by his example. As
such, He will greatly missed my me personally. There'll never be
another one like Bob. My sincere condolences to the entire Farnon
family.
RIP [Billy May once said: nobody ever got fired for writing something
pretty]. Phil Kelly
|
I have just learnt of the passing away of
my uncle from my father, and I am saddened I never got to
know my uncle in person. I adored his work immensely, something
I only came to realise over the last decade. I'd like to thank
the Robert Farnon Society and their members, for the kind
words expressed on these pages during our time of grief. God
Bless. Christopher Farnon
|
Robert Farnon was without doubt one of the greats
of light music and his passing is an immense loss not just to the
music world but to everyone who enjoys 'our' kind of music. Luckily,
this great man's music legacy lives on as, in recent years, there
have been quite a few CDs released of Robert Farnon music. Chris
Landor
We were all so saddened to hear of Bob's passing. Without doubt,
he was the greatest Composer/Arranger ever, and I will treasure
his talent and his memory forever.
Les Reed OBE
Ever since I became a great enthusiast of the music
of Percy Faith, and started collecting his music with the help of
friends worldwide, the name of Robert Farnon was always mentioned
as one of THE masters of the wonderful music we enjoy, "popular
music for orchestra." In many respects, I have thought of them as
equals - bringing rich orchestral sounds to radio and records, one
in the US, one in the UK! Both of them knew a magic time where the
orchestra reigned supreme over the radio waves and both went on
to bring us many hours of wonderful music on records. Percy Faith
and Robert Farnon studied in Canada, Faith going to the United States
for fame and fortune, and Robert Farnon to the UK. There can be
little doubt that they are GIANTS in the wonderful musical world
they created for us, and that the news of Robert Farnon's death
is a reminder that these giants of the light music world
have left us no heirs with their musical capabilities; it is a changed
world, not for the better, where large orchestras dominated by strings
have essentially vanished - however, Faith and Farnon left us with
their rich recorded legacies - and we will always be grateful for
that. My condolences go out to the family of Mr. Farnon, as well
as to his very loyal enthusiasts who have maintained a wonderful
Society over the years that celebrates his life and his music. Bill
Halvorsen
Robert Farnon was the doyen of composers of light
music. The master craftsman not only of his genre of music but also
the wider field of composition. Robert Farnon's melodies will continue
to delight and bring pleasure to future generations and this music
is his public legacy. Vale Robert Farnon. Rob Blackmore
All the great ones are leaving us, sad to say. Paul Snook
I visited Bob at the nursing home in Guernsey a
month ago (March 2005) and made the trip for that purpose. I am
an arranger who adores Bob's work and eventually got up the courage
to call him after admiring his work for years and longing to see
his scores to unveil the magic of his beautiful writing. I could
not have been prepared for the kindness I received. That phone call
was the beginning of a friendship that grew and grew, and I feel
grateful to have the experience of knowing such a special human
being. Bob talked me through various aspects of writing for strings
that one day I will describe in more detail, in short, the effect
it had was to have me write more true to my instinct and not hold
back fearing outside elements like limited available rehearsal time
and therefore the need to write 'easier' charts. He talked me through
each interval for double stops and multiple stops. He once phoned
me and said "Any music questions?" That day, I knew I was the luckiest
guy in the world. Once I asked him if I could send him something
from here (I wanted to show my appreciation for all his kindness).
Bob told me he had no score paper. Long story short, I shipped some
to him and after what seemed like only a week, he was well into
writing a bassoon concerto, that as it turns out will be premiered
by bassoonist Daniel Smith. Bob was proofreading the computer engraved
score when we visited him. I am so happy that a man whose love for
music never seemed to have waned continued to write up to his passing.
Condolences to Pat and his family from me and my wife Jennifer (who
also visited Bob & Pat).
David O'Rourke
Most saddened at the news of Robert Farnon's passing.
What a great pity he did not live to hear his Edinburgh Symphony
performed. Jack Docherty
The sad news about Bob is a terrible blow to all
of us who new and loved him. Many, many people will be
stunned by the news. In any informal communication with the family
please add my name - as one of many - whose thoughts go out
to his family at this time. David Turner
I came online this evening (25 April) after taking
three days holiday for Passover, and found the sad news of Mr. Farnon's
passing, relayed through the 78 RPM Collectors list courtesy of
David Lennick of Canada. I was saddened to hear the news, but I
believe it comforting that his final years were spent in great acclaim,
with the Society fostering worldwide awareness of his music and
Light Music in general; and with listeners and devotees of his compositions
and performances better able to send their regards and admirations
to him personally. One could probably safely presume that
few composers of music were so able to see the effect that their
life's work had upon the public, which must have been a satisfying
tribute for him to have seen. Michael Shoshani
Just heard the sad news about Bob. It just
seems to be all doom and gloom everywhere these days. Jeff Hall
What truly sad news... I do hope it wasn’t
too traumatic for Robert at the end. How sad that someone who had
the power to give such joy couldn’t live forever. Cathy
Franks
As a fan of the 1960s TV Series "The Prisoner",
in which much of Mr Farnon's Chappell work appears, I was most saddened
to hear of his death this weekend. I know I speak for many "Prisoner"
fans around the world when I say that without his musical genius,
the series would not have achieved the same level of unique atmosphere
for which it has become famous. I am only sorry that such sad news
has led me only now to look deeper into his other work and to this
Society for the first time. With sincere condolences to his family,
friends, and colleagues.
Rick Davy,on behalf of "The Unmutual" Prisoner Website
Quite by accident I saw the obit this morning (26
April) on the Internet. I was and am devastated by the news. My
condolences go to you and other friends and family. Even though
I never knew Bob, his music has become an important part of my life
as of late, and will continue through the rest of my life. I had
talked at length and enthusiastically with David O'Rourke who had
spent some time in Guernsey with him. David relayed to me stories
of his encouragement to David and his warmth. I know through David
that he was hoping to make a US visit some time in the next year.
David was very excited about that (as was I) and I had thought we
might begin planning an event to celebrate Bob's upcoming 90th with
a New York concert, perhaps to be repeated in Canada (or vice-versa).
This is still a good idea! Today is a day for tears for me, prayers
for his family. I feel very grateful to have had even the minimal
contact with the RFS. My biggest regret is to have come close to
communicating with him, but not quite close enough. I wanted to
thank him for his music, for his amazing creativity, unparalleled
in our time, and how much joy this has brought to me. Tom Fay
This is a very sad time for Bob’s family,
friends and the Society. But he left a great legacy of music and
recordings. Ken Wilkins
I, and countless others will have many very fond
memories of Bob - his kindness, his generosity and above all his
unassuming manner, which made him a respected figure throughout
the musical world. Latterly, telephone calls between us were frequent
in an attempt to get his "Edinburgh" Symphony performed in the capital;
and thanks to Iain Sutherland, this has become possible. I am only
sorry that Bob has passed away before the "World Premiere" in the
Usher Hall on 14th May - but, I'm sure that he will be there in
spirit. Sadly, it is the end of an era. James Beyer, Conductor
Edinburgh Light Orchestra
I am sure I am one of many to receive the
sad news of Bobs passing who find it difficult to know how
to express our feelings. I know you will have, on behalf
of the Society and its members, passed on condolances to the
Farnon family to which I think all of us who gained so much
pleasure from his music felt part of. I hope their will be an opportunity
for all of us to pay homage in due course to one of the greatest
musical influences of our generation. With deep sadness, Peter
Capp
I was very sorry to hear about Mr. Farnon.
Now we have lost "The Great Canadian". A few days before we
lost "The Great Dane", Niels Henning ØP, only 58. A
shock to us all. He was such a nice and loving person. I will miss
them both. Jørgen Borch Nielsen
My brother, Joe told me over the weekend that Robert
Farnon had died after spending time in hospice. A tragic loss.
Nick Perito, arranger/conductor long time association with Perry
Como, has written his autobiography and he mentions that Joe hired
him to play accordian on a Tony Bennett recording date. "Thanks
to Tony Tamburello, a dear friend and excellent pianist, we were
introduced to the arranging and compositional genius of Robert Farnon".
Another great loss. Jimmy Soldo
I hear we have lost the Leader of the Band; a great loss. Robert
Ing
I was Eric Tomlinson's recording assistant on the
"Bear Island" and "Disappearance" sessions for
the film scores down at the Anvil Studios Denham in the late 1970's.
I later recorded the Pia Zadora album with Bob at CTS in Wembley
in 1984. Bob, you were the greatest arranger of all time; your works
take my breath away and it has been a true honour to have worked
with you. Alan Snelling
How saddened I am to learn of the death of our
esteemed President, Robert Farnon, CM. I know we will all miss Bob,
but Thank God we still have all that lovely music he’s left
behind for us. Jack Smith
I talked to Robert Farnon on the telephone only
two months ago (February) when he had returned from tests at the
local hospital on Guernsey. He reassured me that all was OK at that
time. It was ironic that I was working in France last week and thought
of telephoning him since I was so close to the Channel Islands but
did not have his number with me. I first met Mr Farnon when I played
a concert of his music in Ottawa at the National Arts Center in
'1971 with Mr. Robert Farnon conducting the National Arts Orchestra
of which I was the first solo trumpet. I was in contact with him
many times since. I was responsible for two commissioned works
made by the Canadian Brass for his hand. The first, a "Farrago
of British Folk Songs" for Brass Quintet and orchestra; the other
was an Irish music suite titled " From the Emerald Isle" for Brass
Quintet. The "Farrago" got 100s of performances while the "Emerald
Isle" was never performed by the Canadian Brass during my
24 years with the CB, but I have performed the suite many times
here in the USA, Europe and South America since 1996. Marvellous
music! The day I arrived home from France (Sunday, April 24) I got
the email and I also received the first shipment of my new CD called
"Fred Mills and the Pentabrass Quintet" which has the new version
of the Farnon "Scherzando" for solo trumpet but with Brass Quintet
accompaniment rather than the original string orchestra accompaniment.
Mr Farnon had given me his permission to rescore the "Scherzando"
for this fourth combination as well as the other rescoring for solo
trumpet with large Brass Ensemble and solo trumpet with Woodwind
Choir. It was such a privilege to search his scores for the proper
notes to rescore. I was very honoured, needless to say. All in all
I have performed the "Scherzando" about 200 times with these four
different orchestrations from 1996 to the present. Mr. Farnon was
a most inspiring man. A generous man with always a cheery encouraging
greetings even though I hadn't seen him in over 33 years. I was
a small boy living in Guelph, Ontario when I first heard Mr. Farnon
play the trumpet with the "Happy Gang" band on the noon hour CBC
radio show. This is before I started to play the trumpet so it just
occurs to me now that his influence had already started to point
me to the trumpet in 1942. More recently, I had asked Mr. Farnon
if he would mind my rescoring his "Tete a Tete", a duet of solo
trumpet and solo flugelhorn with small orchestra to Brass Ensemble
of 12 players which I have scheduled for concerts in St Peterburg,
Russia (Festival of Romantic Trumpets) on May 24th and again in
Calabria, Italy on June 3rd. I have already played the "Scherzando"
in both those locations last year. Mr. Farnon has left us with so
much music and the emptiness I feel will be removed when I realize
the joy that his music brings will fill my glass very soon. Fred
Mills
The news of Robert Farnon’s death has touched
me deeply and made me very sad. The music world has lost one of
its greatest exponents of first-rate music in the light, film and
jazz genre. His unique music was enjoyed by innumerable people around
the world for more than half a century. There were also – and
still are – many admirers of his music here in Germany. We
are all mourning the passing of an ingenious musician and a gentle
person, but we should console ourselves with the fact that Robert
Farnon was blessed with a long life during which he never lost his
creative power, and that his works will live on, not least because
of the extraordinary commitment of the Robert Farnon Society. Alexander
Schatte
The death of Robert Farnon has left a great void
in our musical lives, and we have lost a truew genius. I can never
repay him for all the hours of musical pleasure I have had listening
to his wonderful melodies and harmonies since, as an excited schoolboy
in 1948 buying my first Farnon record of Jumping Bean (Decca
F9038) at a shop in Chatham in Kent, where I was brought up. I was
immediately ‘hooked’ and have everything made available
since. I will now treasure my LP and CD collection even more, and
whilst it is sad we have lost Bob it is a happy thought that we
can still listen to his wonderful work at the touch of a button.
I am also grateful that I was able to meet Bob at two meetings at
the Bonnington Hotel in the early 1990s, and remember him as a very
charming and friendly person. Bob will be irreplaceable for his
wonderful compositions, harmonies and accompaniments to so many
artists. I am looking forward to attending the premiere of Bob’s
Edinburgh Symphony in the Usher Hall on 14 May. I am sure
Bob would have been pleased that it was going to be performed. Terry
Viner
Over the years Mr. Farnon’s music has, and
still does, give me endless pleasure. I was lucky enough to be present
at a live relay from Norwich of "Journey Into Melody",
the Sunday afternoon programme on the old BBC Light Programme, in
which Robert conducted the BBC Midland Light Orchestra. After this
hour we were invited to stay for another concert which was recorded
for transmission on the BBC Overseas Service. For me, Bob Farnon
was a lost link with a musical world which – alas – is
no more. He will forever be associated with the great light music
masters, David Rose, Andre Kostelanetz, Arthur Fiedler and our own
Eric Coates. Thanks to record labels such as Vocalion and the Guild
‘Golden Age of Light Music’ series, I can still enjoy
the music of the masters, of which Robert Farnon must rank as one
of the finest. R.C. Wilkinson
On behalf of all the members of the West Midlands
Branch of the Sinatra Music Society, I would like to offer our condolences
to Pat and all the family of Robert Farnon on their sad loss. If
it is any consolation, we will have the wonderful legacy of music
and recordings to enjoy and remember Robert. Phil Suffolk
I was saddened and shocked to hear of Robert Farnon's
passing. The ABC's (Australia) "Classic FM" station mentioned it
today (30/04/05) on the "Scene" programme and played two of his
best known compositions "Westminster Waltz" and "Jumping Bean".
In a way, here was a background to my youth, it was only much later
that I found out who had penned the melodies. His work will live
on. Rick Ashworth
I, too, was saddened to learn of Robert Farnon's
recent passing. I only became aware of his music recently when his
brother, Brian, and wife, Gloria, moved to our community and became
active in our local music scene. Brian has lent me numerous recordings
of Robert's music, and I have been delighted by it. As director
of the College of Southern Idaho Wind Ensemble, I am happy to report
that we were able to program two of Robert's pieces, Westminster
Waltz and Derby Day, on our March 2005 concert, with
Brian joining us in the clarinet section. Both the audience and
the band members thoroughly enjoyed these pieces, and I am anxious
to program more of his music on our concerts. I offer my deepest
and sincerest condolences to Robert's family. George K. Halsell,
Professor of Music, College of Southern Idaho
I profoundly regret this very sad news. Enrique
Klapp
Our Gentle Giant may be gone, but his music will
be with us forever. Please, please keep the Society going so that
we’ll always have Bob’s music to live with. He has given
the world nothing but the best sounds of his heart, and we owe it
to him to keep his memory alive! Ralph Enriquez
The wonderful work of the RFS has been crucial
in securing the future, not only of Robert Farnon’s name and
reputation, but of all the many recordings that have now become
an historic and enduringly valuable and valued archive. It is very
sad to bid mortal farewells to distinguished figures and close friends,
but it is wonderful when they leave a great legacy of creations
and recreations. We are very fortunate and must guard and foster
it well. Long may the RFS flourish! Terence Gilmore-James
For lovers of light music Robert Farnon’s
passing is a great loss, however we have the consolation that ‘the
melodies linger on’. Olga and Norman Jackson
I just have no words that can describe what this
sad news brings. One of the true greatest arranger of all times
has left us... he was the foundation, the path to which every major
arranger followed. He was a cathedral, he was the most innovative
and daring arranger of his time and beyond. I send my warmest condolences
to the Farnon family and to all of us, the Farnon musical family...
I shall never forget him and he'll continue to be a huge part of
my life. Jorge Estrada
Thank goodness for the medium of recorded sound,
ensuring that the music of our all-time great Robert Farnon will
live on forever. At Bob’s passing the world will never seem
quite the same. Bill Watts
So sad to hear about Robert Farnon. It’s now
up to all of us to conserve the musical legacy he has left to history.
Robin King
The above Condolences were received in time for inclusion in our
June/July magazine. Further messages will appear in our September
issue.
The Guv'nor – the Robert Farnon Story
BBC Radio 2's tribute to Robert Farnon
Presented by David Jacobs, Sunday 5th June 2005
at 7pm
Radio 2's Sunday slot between 7 and 8.30pm is usually taken by
Sheridan Morley in Melodies for You. On this occasion, however,
we had David Jacobs presenting a 1½ hour tribute to Robert Farnon.
'A great man of music', said David in his introduction as Gateway
to the West was played. We couldn't agree more.
The programme was an independent production by Associated Rediffusion
for Radio 2, and paid a remarkably full tribute to this most diverse
and individual of light music composers. There was a good selection
of voices on offer in between the music (all Farnon arrangements
and compositions), including some wonderful archive material of
Farnon himself. For those who knew him, his wicked sense of humour
together with his gentle manner and soft Canadian accent must have
been captivating. Many of us, who best know Farnon for his orchestral
music, would be surprised at the amount of work he did with singers,
film makers and dance bands. He wrote in so many different styles,
yet maintained an unmistakable sound which, though commonly imitated,
was perhaps never equalled.
First we heard John Wilson, a man well in tune with the Farnon
manner of composition, and a great innovator in the world of light
music. Bob had given a number of his original scores to John Wilson,
who has subsequently done a huge amount of work with them. The singer
Tony Bennett spoke sincerely of his love for Farnon's music, saying
that the most important thing about it is that it is good music;
it doesn't matter how popular something is, because, as Toscanini
said, it is either good or it isn't. During the programme we heard
Bennett's warm voice in two songs: Robert Farnon’s Country
Girl and Ebb & Kander's Maybe This Time.
Film composer Quincy Jones said a few words about his admiration
for the man behind the music, and we heard an excerpt from Bob's
favourite film score Captain Horatio Hornblower RN. Then
followed a discussion with John Wilson about how difficult it is
to bring off light music convincingly. Jumping Bean, still
on record as the most used signature tune of all time, came up next,
before a synopsis of Bob's early years. Apparently his parents wanted
him to take up the violin, but as he was leaving the house to attend
his lesson he would hide the instrument in the dustbin and go skating
instead. Shocking! Later on he learnt the trumpet, an instrument
perhaps better suited to his personality. Having said that, many
would regard Farnon's string writing as the best of any light music
composer.
Before World War 2 Bob was one of the founder members of that Canadian
radio institution "The Happy Gang", and we heard an excerpt
from one of the RCA 78s they recorded (like much of the music used
in the programme, it came from RFS archives). Then the civilian
Bob became Captain Robert Farnon in charge of the Canadian Band
of the Allied Expeditionary Forces, arriving in England in 1944.
Continuing on the theme of the Second World War we heard Vera Lynn
talking about Bob as the perfect gentleman and a wonderful musician
with whom she loved to work – 'one of the best we've ever had
in this country'. We heard Vera singing You Can't be True, Dear
in a Farnon arrangement. He enjoyed many highly successful collaborations
with the great British dance bands, notably Ted Heath and Geraldo.
David Ades of the Robert Farnon Society spoke next, after Portrait
of a Flirt was played – the flip side of the same record
on which Jumping Bean was released in 1948. As David pointed
out, this was really a double 'A' side – and possibly the finest
light music 78 ever produced. John Wilson talked about the influence
of Eric Coates on Robert Farnon, apparent in his mastering of the
miniature form and impeccable orchestration. We heard light music
classics Alcan Highway and A Star is Born and then
John Wilson talked a little about Bob's love for quirky variety
in his scores. One section of his arrangement of Mort Dixon's Flirtation
Walk is almost atonal. Not what one might expect from a master
of melody; very much tongue-in-cheek.
Bob worked with Frank Sinatra on his only British album Great
Songs from Great Britain, released in Britain (but not the USA)
in 1962. It is now regarded as one of the finest albums Sinatra
made. We heard Ted Shapiro's If I Had You followed by Haydn
Wood's Roses of Picardy. Two major problems occurred during
the recording: firstly Sinatra had a frog in his throat and couldn't
quite make the top notes first time round – secondly the studio
piano decided to give up the ghost near the start of the session,
perhaps accounting for the large amount of celesta on this album.
These things happen when real music is performed by real people.
How refreshing!
David Jacobs remarked that it is a shame Bob didn't write more
ballads. His wistful How Beautiful is Night confirms this,
and was sung here by Sarah Vaughan. An amazing personality, Bob
said, "Did I give up or take up smoking when I met her? I can't
remember!" We then heard the brilliant close harmony group, the
Singers Unlimited, performing with Bob's orchestra in Herman Hupfeld's
As Time Goes By, followed by Lena Horne singing Lerner &
Loewe's I've Grown Accustomed to his Face.
In his later years Robert Farnon turned his attention to larger
scale orchestral works, many completed well into the 1980s and 90s.
As David said, it is difficult to cover these in a tribute of this
length, but then their quality is present within the miniature works
anyway. However we did hear excerpts from Rhapsody for Violin
and Orchestra and Lake of the Woods, the latter of which
Bob likens to Debussy's Prélude à l'après-midi
d'un faune. Ronald Corp, conductor of the New London Orchestra,
shared some memories of a childhood coloured by wonderful music,
and introduced the piece he heard played on Saturday mornings at
the cinema – Westminster Waltz. This accompanied the
closing credits of what had been a heart-warming tribute to a great
musical talent.
Robert Farnon will be missed but his music and immeasurable influence
lives on.
Peter Edwards
Editor: the above article has been slightly adapted from a feature
which first appeared in the Light Music Society’s Newsletter
– our grateful thanks to Peter and the LMS for kindly allowing
us to reproduce it here.
Regular JIM contributor Murray Ginsberg has known Bob Farnon
since those far off days of wartime, and he also listened to the
Radio-2 Tribute ….
Bob’s early influences in Toronto
by MURRAY GINSBERG
I enjoyed David Jacobs' tribute to Bob Farnon on Radio 2 June 5
except that in my opinion it was far too short. There was so much
important information omitted that I felt short changed.
It was wonderful however, hearing Bob speak on a variety of topics,
particularly when he mentioned the Toronto violinists, who because
of a special teacher, had a "softer" sound than most other string
players. That teacher was Luigi von Kunits, who came to Chicago
from Vienna in 1898 to become the concertmaster of the Chicago Festival
Orchestra. In 1912 he came to Toronto to head the Canadian Academy
of Music, which went on to become locally celebrated for its string
playing.
In 1922 a group of Toronto musicians who wanted to perform symphonic
music as a diversion from their regular employment as theatre pit
players, persuaded von Kunits to organize a New Symphony Orchestra
in the city. The musicians, a number of whom were students of von
Kunits, knew he could train an orchestra.
Von Kunits was confident that, especially with his students in
tow, Toronto had enough skilled players for the New Symphony Orchestra.
For the players it was a joyous time. At last they were able to
play their beloved Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms. Playing accompaniment
to vaudeville acts or music to the flickering images on the silent
screen seemed less onerous, as long as they could spend some happy
hours with von Kunits and the New Symphony Orchestra.
And under von Kunits' influence, each player developed his or her
artistry with a power and colour and authority seldom heard surpassed
by the best touring orchestras.
My own coming of age in the Canadian music business in Toronto,
during the late 1930s and early 1940s, had almost everything to
do with the strictly popular music of the time. I had never heard
of Luigi von Kunits. But other students, those who played string
instruments, were directed towards classical music, the music of
the great composers. In the 1930s and 1940s there were many more
fine violinists emerging in Toronto than a city of its size should
normally produce. I often wondered what were the conditions during
those early years that allowed the extraordinarily large number
of top calibre violinists such as Albert Pratz, Hyman Goodman, Sam
Hersenhorn and others to surface? Was it the fierce competition
to be the first to reach the pinnacle of recognition? Or was it
anxious insecurity to clamber over ghetto walls in order to earn
society's respect?
Whatever the reason, even though the New Symphony Orchestra, (whose
title in 1926 was changed to Toronto Symphony Orchestra), was far
from internationally famous, English-speaking Canada's largest big
city was already becoming known in the world's musical communities
for its excellent string players. TSO violinist Harold Sumberg who
played in Percy Faith's CBC radio orchestra between 1938 and 1940,
recalled: "I played on Percy's very first show. In fact, I did all
his shows. His string writing was so spectacular that only the best
violinists could play the parts. And he had the very best of Toronto's
fiddlers, mostly from the Toronto Symphony."
When Luigi von Kunits left Toronto in 1931 to bring his magic to
other musical communities in the world, other teachers filled the
gap left by the irrepressible giant from Vienna. The Toronto Symphony
Orchestra, now under the baton of Ernest (later to become Sir Ernest)
MacMillan, continued to flourish, especially the violinists. In
fact, more than one internationally acclaimed guest conductor who
appeared with the Toronto orchestra declared, "The first violin
section of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra is one of the finest first
violin sections in the world." Heady praise indeed.
I think that's what Bob Farnon meant when he referred to their
sound.
Following receipt of the above letter, the Editor contacted
Murray Ginsberg to ask about Louis Waizman. Over the years, Waizman
has been mentioned on many occasions as having been involved in
Robert Farnon’s early musical education. What did Murray recall
about him?
I first met Waizman (pronounced Wyzman) when I began to work at
the CBC in 1949. I used to see this nice little man with white hair
and a white moustache just as I came through the doors of the CBC
building at 354 Jarvis Street in downtown Toronto. He was always
smoking a cigarette whenever I saw him.
He spoke with a German accent, and was a refugee from either Germany
or Austria, I'm not sure which. When Geoffrey Waddington, the head
of CBC music discovered him living in Toronto he immediately appointed
| 
