During the last 30 years some of Australia’s foremost orchestral players have held positions in the Adelaide Theatre Royal orchestra, the last photograph of which is reproduced in this week’s “Critic”

Theatre Orchestra

During the last 30 years some of Australia’s foremost orchestral players have held positions in the Adelaide Theatre Royal orchestra, the last photograph of which is reproduced in this week’s “Critic”. Such artists as Lemone, Schrader, Lyons, Stoneham, Richter, Chescina and many others might be cited. The orchestra has from time to time been under the dual conductorship and leadership of Messrs. J Hall, G Hall, A.C. Quin, Signor Squirise and Mr Thos. Grigg. The last named has held the position during the last 17 years. Mr Grigg is also well known as a successful teacher of the violin, both privately and as a staff master at Prince Alfred College and the Ladies Methodist College. Other well known members of the orchestra, who will be easily recognised, are Mr cade, well known as a violinist and viola player; the Pank Brothers, of the well known Pank Family of Musicians; Mr Mack, a promising young player; Mr Engle, a well known musician; Mr Bohm, teacher of the flute at the Conservatorium; Mr Heath, one of the best known players, band trainers and conductors in Adelaide; the Brothers Sturm, cornet players; and Messrs keys and Hender, both proficient orchestral players. Very few patrons of the theatre know what a difficult task an orchestra has at times in the preparation of that music which, be it opera or drama, the audience must have some of before they are pacified. Most companies arrive on the morning of the opening performance, and the orchestral players have to master the music in one short rehearsal, whether it be for drama, opera or pantomime. The Adelaide orchestra is looked upon by theatrical managers as one of the most capable in the Commonwealth.

- “The Critic” March 25^th 1908