Guide to the Papers of John Antill
MS 437
National Library of Australia View Catalogue Record
Collection Summary
- Creator
- Antill, John
- Title
- Papers of John Antill
- Date Range
- 1872 - 1987
- Collection Number
- MS 437
- Extent
- 23.88 metres (1 folder + 36 ms boxes + 3 cartons + 13 small folio boxes + 25 medium folio boxes + 4 large folio boxes + 46 sound/av carriers)
- Language of Materials
- English
- Repository
- Special Collections (Manuscripts)
Introduction
Scope and Contents
The score of Corroboree was presented to the Library by John Antill in 1956. After Antill's death, six consignments of his papers were received by the Library between 1987 and 1993.
Half of the Antill Papers consists of music manuscripts and other papers relating to the composition and performances of his works. Most of Antill's works are represented in the papers. The works span over 65 years of Antill's life and include a range of musical forms such as opera, ballet, oratorio, orchestral, fanfares, anthems, choral music, songs and film, television and radio music.
The remainder of the papers relate to Antill's education; employment as a musician, conductor and music editor with the Australian Broadcasting Commission; participation in the South Pacific Festival of Arts in Fiji; and his personal life. The papers include correspondence, diaries, notebooks, financial papers, speeches and broadcasts, scrap albums, photographs, newspaper cuttings and programs.
The Antill Papers also contain Antill Family papers inherited and collected by Antill throughout his life. The family papers include correspondence and memorabilia dating from his father's service in the Middle East during the First World War, and a collection of early postcards.
Due to the lack of a discernible order, the Antill Papers have been entirely rearranged to form the present series structure, with the exception of the contents of some files which are in original order.
Conditions Governing Access
Access conditions may apply to this collection, please refer to the collection's catalogue record for further information (http://nla.gov.au/nla.cat-vn2655031).
Conditions Governing Use
Copying and publishing of unpublished manuscript material is subject to copyright restrictions. For such material, written permission to publish must be obtained from the copyright holder(s). Copying of unpublished material for research purposes is permissible 50 years after the death of the creator of the material.
Preferred Citation
Items from this collection should be cited as '[Title or description of manuscript item], Papers of John Antill, National Library of Australia, MS 437, [box number and series and/or file number]'.
Abbreviations
dl copy: dieline copy
f. score: full score
ms: manuscript
orch: orchestral
ms. ink: manuscript ink
ms. p.: manuscript pencil
p.: page/pages
p/copy / p/copied: photocopy/photocopied
pt / pts: part / parts
tp: transparencies
t: typescript
& ann: and annotations
Cultural Sensitivity Note
Works in this collection (selected pages of MS 437/8a/Fol. 1, MS 437/8a/1 and MS 437/8a/8) contain culturally sensitive illustrations. Access to these illustrations has been restricted at the request of senior Arrernte Law men. In advising of this request, the Central Land Council noted that "the use of secret images by Antill et al show that at the same time Aboriginal ritual and religion was being feted it was being undermined and treated with disdain".
Biographical Note
John Henry Antill was born on 8 April 1904 and grew up in Sydney. He was educated at St. Andrew's Cathedral Choir School (1914-18) and Trinity Grammar School (1918-19) where he showed an early interest in music. In 1920 he left school and was apprenticed to the engineering workshops of NSW Railways, composing music in his spare time. After completing a five year apprenticeship, Antill resigned to concentrate fully on his music. Antill studied at the NSW State Conservatorium of Music where his teacher for composition was Alfred Hill.
After graduating from the Conservatorium, Antill joined the J.C. Williamson's Imperial Opera Company as a singer and rehearsal conductor, touring Sydney, Melbourne and New Zealand during 1932 and 1933. In 1933 he formed the Mastersingers Male Quartet and began broadcasting work with the ABC. From 1934-35 he joined the Fuller Opera Company as a chorus member, backstage conductor and clarinet player and in 1936 played bass clarinet with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
In 1936 Antill joined the permanent staff of the ABC as Assistant Music Editor and director of the Sydney Wireless Chorus. He remained with the ABC until his retirement from the position of Federal Music Editor in 1968.
Antill composed music throughout his life, and rose to international prominence with the performances of his symphonic ballet Corroboree in 1946. He was awarded the OBE for his services to Australian music in 1971, and received an Honorary Doctorate in Creative Arts from the University of Wollongong in 1985.
John Antill died on 29 December 1986.
See also Gentle genius: a life of John Antill by Beth Dean and Victor Carell (Sydney: Akron Press, 1987)
Item Descriptions
Series 1. Family correspondence, 1907-85
Correspondence received by Antill from his wife and other family members. Other Antill Family correspondence can be found in series 19 (Family papers).
Cards, 1907-26. Includes World War I postcards to Antill from his father in England (File 1) - Box 1
Correspondence, 1928-40. Includes letters from Constance Peaker before their marriage (File 2) - Box 1
Cards, letters and telegrams received by John and Constance Antill from family and friends on the occasion of their marriage in 1939 (File 3) - Box 1
Correspondence, 1944-51. Includes letters to Antill from his wife while he was in London, 1946-47 and on tour, 1951 (File 4) - Box 1
Series 2. Personal correspondence, 1929-86
Correspondence received by Antill from personal friends and by others in a private capacity. Includes some draft replies by Antill. Correspondents include Pat Flowers, Constance Paul, T.W. Bearup, Beth Dean and Victor Carell, Daphne Connell, Betty Roland, Eugene and Marjorie Goossens, Victor Massey, Ethel Anderson, Valerie Tweedie and George Dreyfus.
Correspondence, 1929-39. Includes letters regarding an early job offer refused by Antill (File 1) - Box 2
Correspondence, 1944-45. Contains letters and cards of condolence on the death of Antill's mother and congratulations on the birth of his daughter (File 2) - Box 2
Correspondence, 1946. Letters and telegrams of congratulations on the success of Corroboree and his trip to London. Also includes a draft of a letter to Eugene Goossens and invitations in London (File 3_4) - Box 2
Correspondence, 1947-49. Includes letters and cards of condolence on the death of John Henry Antill senior, June 1948; and a letter by Marjorie Goossens (File 5) - Box 2
Correspondence, 1950-51. Includes correspondence relating to the Corroboree ballet and the Antill's cottage at Faulconbridge (File 6) - Box 2
Correspondence, 1953-59. Includes correspondence relating to the cottage at Faulconbridge; Endymion; the Royal Command performance of Corroboree; death of Constance Antill; and Song of Hagar (File 7) - Box 2
Correspondence, 1960-69. Includes correspondence relating to Pageant of nationhood and Antill's attendance at the Annual Orchestral Concert at the Brigidine Convent, Randwick (File 8) - Box 3
Series 3. General correspondence, 1922-86
Correspondence relating to Antill's musical career, business affairs, public appearances and performances, clubs and organisations. Includes invitations to judge competitions, attend performances, contribute to articles and deliver speeches; poems, plot outlines etc. sent to Antill for his consideration; requests for permission to use his works; and enquiries on the availability of works.
Correspondents include the Australian Performing Rights Association, Victor Carell and Beth Dean; Arts Council of Australia; St Andrew's Cathedral School and National Library of Australia.
Also includes some drafts of letters by Antill.
Other general correspondence is located in series 12 (South Pacific Festival of Arts), series 14 (scrap albums) and series 13 (subject files). ABC correspondence is located in series 11(d).
Correspondence, 1922-39. Includes correspondence relating to his retirement from service with NSW Railways (File 1) - Box 4
Correspondence, 1941-49. Includes correspondence relating to his return to Australia from England; a proposal for a ballet by E.C. Lough; offer of a grant to study in Paris; and enquiries about recordings of Corroboree (File 2) - Box 4
Correspondence, 1950-51. Relates to the ballet of Corroboree including orchestral requirements and tour details; invitations to write articles; and the score for The inlanders (File 3_4) - Box 4
Correspondence, 1952-54. Includes correspondence on the 1954 season of the ballet Corroboree; a letter by Charles Chauvel approaching Antill to undertake the score for the film Jedda; and correspondence on lunchtime lectures for the Arts Council of Australia (File 5) - Box 4
Important correspondence and invitations to official functions, 1959-73. Relates to the visit of Princess Alexandra of Kent, 1959; the Pageant of Nationhood, 1963, luncheon with the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh on H.M.Y. Britannia, 1963; Government House invitations, 1963 and 1969; letter appointing Antill an Officer of the Order of the British Empire, 1971; visit of the Queen to St Andrew's Cathedral, 1973; and the Sydney Opera House opening, 1973 (File 7) - Box 4
Correspondence, 1960-62. Includes correspondence on Arts Council lunchtime lectures; Waratah Spring Festival of Historical Events; and Antill's involvement in various clubs and organisations (File 8) - Box 5
Correspondence, 1963-67. Subjects include the Australian Composers' Seminar; Snowy; and The First Christmas (File 9) - Box 5
Series 4. Diaries and notebooks, 1924-86
The diaries cover the years 1924-47 and 1958-86. The diaries are generally very brief and document the daily schedule of practice, rehearsals and composition in Antill's musical life as well as performances attended, outings, family events and holidays. On the whole there is little personal detail, particularly in the later diaries, although there are references to illness and depression periodically throughout the years. The diaries contain a reasonable record of the works Antill composed and their performances.
Diaries, 1924-29. Diaries for 1925 and 1926 document Antill's unhappiness with his job with NSW Railways; anxieties for the future; and his musical and composition activities. Diary for 1929 contains references to Endymion. (File 1) - Box 6
Diaries, 1930-34. Diaries for 1930 and 1931 refer to Antill's relationship with Constance, and his works Endymion, Here's Luck and The Glittering Mask. The diaries for 1932 refer to his work and New Zealand tour with J.C. Williamson's Imperial Opera Co. The diaries for 1933 and 1934 document rehearsals with the Mastersingers Quartet and the Melody Makers Quartet; broadcasting work with 2CH, 2FC and 2BL; and opera rehearsals with Fuller Opera Co. (File 2) - Box 6
Diaries, 1935-41. Very brief diaries documenting rehearsals with the Fuller Opera Co., 1935; broadcasts on 2FC and 2BC, 1935-36; work rehearsing and arranging music for the Quartet, 1935; rehearsals with the NSW State Orchestra, 1935-36; his employment with the ABC and work on the Wireless Chorus, 1936-37. Also mentions celebrity artists including Lotte Lehmann and Essie Ackland; and his engagement and marriage to Constance. (File 3) - Box 6
Diaries, 1942-47, 1958-62 and appointment book, 1946. Diaries for 1942-45 contain references to Antill's work on Corroboree. The diary for 1946 refers to the first performance of Corroboree conducted by Goossens on August 18 and Antill's departure for London. The 1958-62 diary includes references to G'day Digger (1958), Symphony on a City (1959), Hagar (1959), The Serpent Woman (1959), Snowy (1961) and his Harmonica Sonata (1961) as well as music for the films Dark Rain (1958), New Guinea Patrol (1958), Sands of Yellow Rock (1959, 1960) and The Patriots (1962). (File 4) - Box 6
Diaries, 1963-67 and appointment diaries for 1965-66. The personal diaries include references to Royal pageant (1963), Snowy (1963), Everyman (1964), A Little Symphony for Dancing (1966), Songs of Praise (1967), Unknown Land (1967) and Songs of Righteousness (1967). (File 5) - Box 6
Diaries, 1968-72 and appointment diary, 1967 and 1971. Personal diary includes references to Paen to the Spirit of Man (1968); Centenary Fanfare (1969); and performances of The First Christmas, Corroboree, G'day Digger and Hagar in 1970 and Australian Quadrilles (1971). (File 6) - Box 6
Series 5. Biographical papers
Biographical notes and typescripts produced for publicity material, Antill's Who's Who entry and for biographies of Antill.
Series 6. Financial Papers, 1933-86
Financial correspondence; ledgers; tax returns; cheque butts; receipts; statements of earnings; insurance papers; car registration papers; royalty statements; medical papers and other financial papers.
The financial papers relate both to Antill's domestic affairs and to his earnings from the sale and broadcasting royalties of his works. There are also some papers relating to fees paid for works commissioned.
Series 7. Writings, c.1930-84
After the success of Corroboree in 1946, Antill delivered numerous speeches to societies and at functions, including a series of Arts Council music lectures in the 1950s and broadcasts on musical subjects. In his early years at the ABC, Antill also wrote an unpublished piece on radio broadcasting of live music. Other writings include drafts, notes and typescripts on musical theory, Aboriginal music, Corroboree, the process of composing, and autobiographical accounts of car tours in New South Wales. Most of Antill's writings are undated.
Speeches, 1946-1984. Includes speeches delivered at the BBC in London, 1946; speeches on Aboriginal music, musical composition and Australian music; a speech in honour of Austin Goldberg; and two speeches by Antill on his 80th birthday (File 1) - Box 13
Broadcasts, 1948-74 and undated. Subjects include corroborees; translating the Australian scene and spirit into music; Antill's life; and Corroboree. Also includes episodes from the series 'Let's discover music' (File 2) - Box 13
Series 8. Music, c.1919-85
Papers relating to works composed or arranged by Antill. Includes original music manuscripts; transparencies, dieline and printed copies of his scores; and papers such as correspondence, posters, notes, articles, newspaper cuttings and tour itineraries relating to the composition and performances of his works.
See abbreviations list above for abbreviations used in describing the music manuscripts.
Subseries 8a. Orchestral music, 1936-76
Corroboree, 1936-44 (File)
Corroboree was composed between 1936 and 1944, based on the rhythms that had impressed Antill during a trip to the La Perouse Aboriginal settlement in about 1912. The music for Corroboree was first performed in 1946 by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Eugene Goossens at the Sydney Town Hall. Goossens later toured the work to London and Cincinatti.
Corroboree was first performed as a ballet in 1950 by the National Theatre Ballet Company at the Empire Theatre. The ballet was choreographed by Rex Reid, with set design by William Constable. It toured all states with their respective orchestras.
The ballet's second season premiered in 1954 at the Tivoli Theatre in Sydney before Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. It was conducted by Antill with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, choreographed by Beth Dean and with set design by William Constable. The ballet toured New South Wales. Corroboree was also performed for the Captain Cook Bicentenary in 1970 at the Gunnamatta Park amphitheatre in Cronulla.
The series contains manuscript and published scores, as well as other papers relating to the 1946, 1950/51, 1954 and 1970 performances.
Correspondence relating to Corroboree is also in series 2 and 3. Other papers on Corroboree can be found throughout the collection.
Transcripts of broadcasts, artwork, correspondence and other papers, 1946-47 (1 folder) (File 1) - Box 14
Poster and invitations relating to recorded music recital of Corroboree, 1948 (1 bag) (File 2) - Box 14
Colour, mounted newspaper clipping of William Constable's stage setting for Corroboree (1 item) (File 6) - Box 14
Typescript summary of performances of the 1954 production and NSW tour; and papers relating to the 1970 production (1 folder) (File 7) - Box 14
Typescripts including transcripts of broadcasts, a cutting and a letter, 1948; lists of instruments; choreography outline; notes on Aboriginal music and other commentary on Corroboree (1 folder) (File 9) - Box 14
Corroboree : symphonic ballet by John Antill (full score) published by Boosey Hawkes (1 vol.) (File 12) - Box 15
Photographs and negatives of the original, illustrated Corroboree score (1 folder) (File 13) - Box 15
1 f. score, ms, dl copy, 84 pp; (No.1 (a)-(b)); complete work in red spiral binding; Boosey Hawke (File 4) - Folio-Box 2
1 f. score, ms, dl copy, 84 pp (No.7A-B); complete work in black spiral binding; Boosey Hawke (File 5) - Folio-Box 2
1 f. score, ms, dl copy, 84 pp. (No. 8A-B); complete work in black spiral binding; Boosey Hawke (File 6) - Folio-Box 2
1 piano score, ms, dl copy, 7 pts (2 copies of pts 4 5); 1 piano score, ms. ink (No's 2, 3 in ms book); 1 piano score, ms. ink, 20 pp (incomplete) (File 7) - Folio-Box 2
Unknown Land, 1953 (File)
Ballet suite composed as a solo ballet piece for Coralie Hinkley, based on poems by RegIngamells. Initially written for piano only, but later scored for string orchestra. Orchestral piece was first performed for the ABC in 1956, conducted by Antill.
1 f. score, ms p., 20 p. (No's 1-3); 1 f. score, ms, dl copy ann, 19 p; 2 f. scores, ms, dl copy, 19 p; 2 f. scores, p/copies; 1 piano score, tp, 20 p; 1 piano score, dl copy, 20 p; 1 piano score, dl copy, 4 p; 1 piano score, ms. p; 1 pt. piano score, ms. p., 8 p (No.1); 1 pt. piano score, ms. p, 5 p. (No.3); 1 pt. piano score, ms. p., 7 p. (No.3) (File 21) - Folio-Box 8
Outback Overture, 1954 (File)
First performed by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Tivoli Theatre in 1954 for the Royal Visit.
1 f. score, ms. p., 21 p; 2 f. scores, p/copies of ms. p; 1 f. score (by copyist), tp, 29 p; 1 f. score, ms dl copy, 29 p; 1 f. score, ms, tp; 1 set orch. pts, ms, tp, 12 p; Typescript notes; 1 f. score titled "Outback overture" and "Overture for an Australian comedy", ms. p. (File 23) - Folio-Box 9
A Sentimental Suite for Orchestra, 1955 (File)
First performed in 1957 by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
Overture for a Momentous Occasion, 1956-57 (File)
Written to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the ABC's Youth Concerts. First performed in 1957 at the Sydney Town Hall conducted by Antill.
1 f. score, ms. p, 29 p; 1 f. score, p/copy of ms. p., 29 p; 1 f. score, ms. p. 19 p ('overture' used in title); 1 f. score, tp, 31p; Sketches, ms. p. (including one titled 'Fanfare for an important occasion'); (Sketch, ms. p. (in ms book) 6 p (Titled 'Aurora Australis Festival Overture') (File 30) - Folio-Box 12
Symphony on a City, 1959 (File)
Commissioned for the centenary of the City of Newcastle in 1959. First performed at the Century Theatre, Broadmeadow, by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra conducted by Antill.
1 set orch. parts, tp; 1 f. score, ms. p; orch. parts, dl copy; sketches, ms. p. (1 folder); orch. part (oboe II), ms. ink (1 p.); 1 f. score, photo reproduction; cartoon by Lumsdon, ms. ink; notes; script of "Sydney today : a symphony of a great city" by James J. Donnelly and itinerary for Antill's visit to Newcastle, 1958 (1 folder); and publication entitled Symphony on a city produced by Oswald L. Ziegler (File 36) - Folio-Box 14
Concerto for Harmonica and Orchestra, 1960 (File)
Commissioned by the ABC. First performed in 1960 by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Antill.
Sonata for Harmonica and Pianoforte, 1960 (File)
Music for a Royal Pageant of Nationhood, 1963 (File)
Commissioned by the NSW Government for the Royal Visit for the 175th Anniversary of white settlement of Australia. The ballet "Burragorong Dreamtime" was also performed at the Pageant of Nationhood.
1 f. score, ms. p., 72 p. (Pageant for Princess Alexandra, 1959 and Queen Elizabeth, 1963); 1 f. score, ms. p., 83 p. (Royal Pageant, 1963); 1 score, ms. p., 26 p. (Pageant - The Legend of the Boomerang and the Waratah, 1959); 1 piano score, ms, photo reproduction, 27 p.; 1 score, ms. p., 27 p. (incomplete); Sketches, ms. p; Sketch entitled "Seascape", ms. ink; "Hymn of Praise : Royal Pageant, 1963", ms. ink, tp, 2 p.; Programs of events, 1959 and 1963; Scripts for Burragorang Dreamtime Letter , 18 Oct. 1962 from Asher Joel to John Antill (File 40) - Folio-Box 15
Paean to the Spirit of Man, 1967 (File)
Commissioned for the 20th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. First performed on Human Rights Day, 8 December 1968 at the Sydney Town Hall, conducted by Antill.
Australiana : Your Partners Please, 1975-76 (File)
Subseries 8b. Operas, c.1919-69
Endymion, 1920 (File)
A lyric masque, with libretto by John Keats. Staged by the National Opera of Australia at the Tivoli Theatre in 1953, conducted by Antill.
Libretto (ms. p. t/s); letter, 12 January 1971 from George Dreyfus; notes; miscellaneous scores, tp, p.17, 18, 41 (1 folder); 1 score, ms. p. (in 3 ms books); 1 score (revised), ms. p. (in 2 ms books); 1 score, ms. ink of the Prologue (File 2) - Folio-Box 18
1 f. score, ms. p., 98 p. (incomplete); 1 f. score, ms. ink, 86 p ann (and p/copy) (File 3) - Folio-Box 18
1 f. score, ms. ink, 156 p ann. Includes set designs in colour, lighting diagrams, libretto, notes and a sketch (File 4) - Folio-Box 19
1 vocal score, ms. ink, ann, 145p. notes in ms. p.; 1 vocal score, ms, dl copy ann, 70 p. (includes 1 libretto; 1 piano score "Capriccio from Endymion" (6 p), notes (2 p), 1 choral pt, (9 p.); 1 vocal score, ms dl copy ann, 69 p. (includes light plan (2 p.), 1 soprano pt (2 p), miscellaneous pts (2 p) (File 5) - Folio-Box 19
The Glittering Mask, 1932 (File)
Comic opera in two acts with Libretto by Margerie Browne - never performed.
Here's Luck, c.1932 (File)
Light opera in two acts depicting life on a cattle station and containing a corroboree scene. Libretto by Margerie Browne. Never performed.
The Music Critic or the Printers Devil, 1952 (File)
Burlesque opera in once act with libretto by Antill. Never performed.
Synopsis and libretto, t/s (folder); 1 f. score, ms. p. ink, 61 p.; 1 f. score, ms, tp, 57 p.; 1 f. score, ms, tp, 89 p.; 1 f. score, ms, dl copy, 89 p. (includes ann, script [5 p.], and notes [10 p.] ); 1 piano vocal score, ms. p. (in 8 ms. books); Sketches, ms. p. ink; Notes, p. ink, 3 p. (incomplete) (File 14) - Folio-Box 22
The First Christmas, 1968-69 (File)
Commissioned by the NSW Government in 1966 with libretto by Pat Flower. Broadcast by the ABC on Christmas Day, 1969 and repeated in 1970, conducted by Verdun Williams.
Subseries 8c. Oratorio, 1952-59
Song of Hagar to Abraham the Patriarch, 1957 (File)
Oratorio for men and boys' choirs and orchestra based on the poem by Ethel Anderson. First performed in 1957 by the ABC (recorded for Italia Prize, 1960).
Correspondence, 1952-59 including letters from Ethel Anderson; author's notes and drawings; typescripts of the script for the first performance (in English and French); biographical notes on Antill and Ethel Anderson and other papers. (File 1) - Folio-Box 25
1 f. score, ms. p., 84 p. (including author's notes, text sketches); 1 f. score, ms, tp, 95 p.; 1 f. score, ms, dl copy, 95 p. (File 2) - Folio-Box 26
Subseries 8d. Ballets, 1925-62
Wahkooka, 1956 (File)
First performed in 1957 by the Elizabethan Opera Ballet Company, choreographed by Valrene Tweedie.
G'day Digger, 1958 (File)
First performed in March 1970 for the Bi-Centenary celebrations at Cronulla Amphitheatre.
Snowy, 1961 (File)
Ballet of the story of the Snowy Mountains Scheme devised by Margaret Barr. Premiered in 1961 by the Sydney Dance-Drama Group at the Science Theatre, University of New South Wales. Originally scored for piano only, but later arranged for a small orchestra, becoming the first Australian ballet performed for television.
Dreaming Time Legends : The Birth of the Waratah and The First Boomerang (File)
Antill rearranged the music he composed for the ballets in the Pageant of Nationhood for an ABC television performance he entitled Dreaming Time Legends. The ballet was choreographed by Beth Dean.
Subseries 8e. Film music, 1945-63
The Land that Waited, 1963 (File)
Sketches, ms. p.; 1 f. score, ms. p. (Reel 12); 1 f. score, ms. p., 34 p. (Reel 3); 1 f. score, ms. p., 47 p. (Reel 4); 1 f. score, ms. p., 37 p. (Reel 5); Orch. pts, ms. ink; Operational instructions, proposed stills, music cues, director's notes, final shot list, music measurements, certificates, pamphlets and other papers. (File 7) - Folio-Box 31
Subseries 8f. Television music, 1960-82
Subseries 8g. Incidental music, 1947-64
Subseries 8h. Fanfares, anthems and brief works, 1950-85
Jubugalee (A Flourish), 1973 (File)
Composed for the Royal Concert held in the presence of the Queen and Prince Philip for the opening of the Sydney Opera House in October 1973.
Subseries 8i. Choral, 1936-70
Festival Te Deum, 1966 (File)
Written for St Andrew's Cathedral for organ and choir. Performed in 1966 by the Cathedral Choir Society, conducted by Antill.
Cantate Domino, 1970 (File)
Composed for the ecumenical welcome service to Pope Paul VI at the Sydney Town Hall on December 1970. Text from Psalm 98, Sing a New Song to the Lord or Cantate Domino.
1 f. score, ms. p., 12 .; 1 f. score, ms. ink, 27 p.; 2 f. scores, ms, p/copies, 27 p.; 1 piano vocal score, ms. ink, 14 p.; Piano vocal scores, ms, p/copies, 14 p.; Vocal scores (by copyist), dl copies, and p/copies, 9 p.; 10 pts, (by copyist), 10 p.; 7 pts, (by copyist), p/copies; Sketches, ms. p., 14 p.; Notes, letters and programme for Ecumenical Service, 1970. (File 5) - Folio-Box 37
Subseries 8j. Songs, 1926-74
Antill composed and arranged hundreds of songs, carols and settings of psalms. Other songs are in series 11b. (Mastersingers Male Quartet) (File)
[Miscellaneous compositions]
Piano Vocal Scores, ms. ink p. of the following songs: (File 1) - Folio-Box 38
The Lost Joy (lyrics Harry Lee), 1926;
Blue Eyed Mary (lyrics Gene Stretton Portec), 1927;
My Star (lyrics Robert Browning), 1928;
The Garland (lyrics John Dryden), 1928;
There is Sweet Music (lyrics Alfred Tennyson), 1928;
Four by the Clock (lyrics Longfellow), 1928;
Flow Gently Sweet Afton (lyrics Burns), 1928;
A Choice (lyrics M.G. Stewart), 1929;
Melbourne Centenary Song (lyrics Margerie Browne), 1934;
There is Ever a Song Somewhere (lyrics F.W. Riley), 1934;
Remembrance (lyrics Castles), 1935;
It's Fine to Say Good Morning (lyrics Anon), 1935;
The Little Things (lyrics by William Allingham), 1935;
O Ever Earnest Sea (lyrics H. Bona), 1935;
If the Heart's Full of Song all Day Long (lyrics Anon), 1935;
To the Heart that Sings Alway(lyrics F.L. Stanton), 1935;
What Inspires Me (lyrics Antill), 1935;
Don't Get Blue (lyrics Anon), 1935;
Moon at Sea (lyrics H. Pease, V. Rose, L. Stock), c.1937;
Beauty of Spring (lyrics John Wheeler), 1941
Prospector's Song, c. 1948 (File)
Lyrics by John Wheeler.
Sketches, ms. p., 3 p.; 1 score, ms. ink, 4 p.; 1 score, ms. tp., 4 p.; 2 scores, ms, dl copy, 4 p.; 1 score, tp, 4 p.; 3 scores (printed 1957), dl copy, 4 p.; 3 scores (printed 1957), p/copies, spiral bound, 4 p. 2 Piano vocal scores, ms. ink. printed, of the following songs: Sweet Scented Sandlewood Bloom (lyrics Ann Lethbridge, 1951); In an Old Homestead Garden (lyrics Ann Lethbridge, c.1952); Barbara's Song (lyrics B. Bradshaw, c.1953) (File 2) - Folio-Box 38
Five Songs of Praise, 1954 (File)
Settings of Psalms. First performed by the ABC in 1954. Scores of Psalm 36 (Thy Righteousness is Like a Mountain) are also marked "Songs of Righteousness, No.2".
Piano vocal scores, ms. p.; Piano vocal scores, ms. ink.; Piano vocal scores, ms, p/copies; Sketches, ms. p. (File 5) - Folio-Box 39
Piano Vocal Scores and Sketches of the following songs: (File 6) - Folio-Box 39
Happy Wanderer (lyrics H. Cannon), c1957;
Beauty of Spring(Lyrics John Wheeler, 1967);
Black Eyed Susan (lyrics Richard Leveridge);
Blue Mountain Blue;
Comin' thro' the Rye;
Don't Tickle Me;
Dixie;
For He's a Jolly Good Fellow;
Home, Home, Home;
January, February, March;
Little Jack Horner;
Little Miss Muffet;
Little Tommy Tucker;
Mary Mary Quite Contrary;
Over the Hills and Far Away;
Simple Simon;
Sing a Song of Sixpence;
Songs of the Empire (Rule Britannia, Advance Australia, O Canada, Maple
Leaf Forever);
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star;
Waltzing Matilda
Piano vocal scores, sketches and lyrics to the following carols arranged and composed for St Andrews Choir: (File 6) - Folio-Box 39
The Bathurst Carol (D. Hulme Moir);
Christmas Cradle Song, 1965;
The Dunedoo Carol (D. Hulme Moir);
The First Noel, 1965;
The George St Carol (D. Hulme Moir); God Came Down at Christmas (D. Hulme Moir), 1965;
God Keep You Merry Gentlemen, 1965;
Good Christian Men Rejoice (John Mason Neale), 1965;
Nathan's Song (D. HulmeMoir), 1974;
Noel Champenois, 1965;
St Andrew's Carol (D. Hulme Moir), 1965;
Twas in a Stable, 1965.
Subseries 8k. Miscellaneous music, 1925-80
Piano scores (ms. ink) of Lyric Pieces and Burlesque; full scores of Overture to a Chinese Opera (incomplete) and Nature Studies, 1925; folder entitled "Early sketches" containing a script for the play "The Prince and the Apple Dumplings" by John Antill, a score entitled "Serenade", an untitled full score, notes on music and miscellaneous sketches; full score of "Serenade"; short score, possible of Endymion and other early sketches. (File 1) - Folio-Box 40
Full score (ms. ink) of Andante and Allegretto for bassoon solo and small orchestra arranged from duet 'Come my Saviour' by J.S. Bach, 1930; ms book of sketches containing score for Melbourne Centenary Song, 1934; ms book of sketches dated 1934; scrap book containing Pastoral for dancing by Antill and songs by other composers; full score of Four Abstract Pieces for Orchestra, 1946; score of Theme Song: MV New Zealand Star, 1947; and ms book of sketches, 1945. (File 2) - Folio-Box 39
Sketches dating from the 1950s; folder containing verse, a letter (1955) and sketches entitled "Royal visit 1963"; a folder of sketches dating from the 1960s including "Gemini Opera"; sketches for "A Little Symphony for Dancing", 1966; scores for "Pinchgut Polka" and "Bennelong Bounce"; score of "Elegy on a theme by a former cathedral organist Joseph Massey", 1966; sketch dated 1974; sketch entitled "Festival in Paradise', 1978; sketch entitled "South Pacific Festival Overture" and sketch dated 1980. (File 3) - Folio-Box 40
Series 9. St Andrew's Cathedral School, 1917-81
Antill attended St Andrew's Cathedral Choir School, (as it was then known) in 1914-18, where he received an important musical grounding. Throughout his life, Antill maintained a close association with the school and St Andrew's Cathedral. Antill was married at St Andrew's; attended services there; composed Festival Te Deum, conducted a variety of pieces of the Cathedral, and was on the School Council.
The papers contain printed material and momentos documenting his ongoing interest and involvement in St Andrew's.
Series 10. NSW State Conservatorium of Music, 1926-30
Antill studied at the Conservatorium in 1926-30, studying violin with Gerald Walenn and composition with Alfred Hill. Antill also played violin and bass clarinet with the Conservatorium Orchestra.
Series 11. Australian Broadcasting Commission, 1933-65
Subseries 11a. Melody Makers Quartet, 1933
The Melody Makers Quartet was one of two quartets Antill directed for ABC radio programs. The Melody Makers Quartet provided vocals for the 2CH radio series "Down Memory Lane" in 1933.
Subseries 11b. Mastersingers Male Quartet, 1933-36
The Mastersingers Male Quartet (also known as the Studio Quartet) was formed in 1933 at the suggestion of the ABC as a quartet for regular radio work. The foundation members of the group were George Livermore (tenor), Albert Miller (tenor), Norman Hastelow (bass) and Harry Bond (male alto) with Antill conducting, arranging and composing music for the quartet. Other vocal music is in series 8i and 8j.
Subseries 11c. Wireless Chorus, 1936-41
After Antill was appointed to the full-time staff of the ABC in May 1936 he directed the Wireless Chorus. The Wireless Chorus was made up of the 12 members of the Grand Opera Chorus and the four members of the Mastersingers Male Quartet. Antill selected, arranged and composed music for the Chorus' wide repertoire.
Folders of papers containing Wireless Chorus rosters, 1937; scripts of 'Great Hymns and their Stories', (1936); manuscript music; correspondence, programs and song lists relating to the Mastersingers Male Quartet and other papers. (File 1_2) - Box 17, 18
Subseries 11d. ABC correspondence, 1937-65
Correspondence received by Antill while Assistant Music Editor, Music Supervisor and Federal Music Editor at the ABC. Contains carbon copies of ABC inter-office memos; ABC letterhead correspondence; some carbon copies of replies by Antill; and telegrams. Much of the correspondence is administrative, concerning superannuation, job applications and travelling expenses. Includes correspondence relating to invitations for Antill to speak and adjudicate competitions; Antill's articles and broadcasts for children on musical appreciation; and the 1963 Australian Composers Seminar. Works referred to include Corroboree, Hassan, G'day Digger, Song of Hagar, Symphony on a City, Five Australian lyrics, the text 'Design for broadcasting' and film scores for The Land that Waited; the Australian Inland Mission and for the ANU.
Other ABC/correspondence is located in series 14 (scrap albums).
Series 12. South Pacific Festival of Arts, Fiji, 1971-72
In 1971, Antill was invited to prepare and conduct performances of Mendelssohn's Elijah at the First South Pacific Festival of Arts, held in Suva in May 1972. The choir was comprised of over 200 Fijian singers and the Dorian Singers of New Zealand, and was accompanied by the Sinphonia of Auckland.
Correspondence from Victor Carell, Executive Director of the Festival, 1971-72; photographs; publicity information on Antill and the Festival; and other papers. (File 1) - Box 19
Menus from SS Monterey, 1972; an invitation from the captain; and a notice for disembarking passengers. (File 2) - Box 19
Series 13. Subject files, 1948-84
Antill was an office holder and member of numerous musical societies and was involved in other activities such as adjudicating musical competitions and participating in seminars. The subject files reflect these interests, particularly in the 1950s and 60s.
National Opera of Australia, 1952-54. Includes notes, correspondence and financial papers. (File 1) - Box 19
Fellowship of Australian Composers, 1959-62. Includes agenda, newsletters and constitution. (File 3) - Box 19
International Society for Contemporary Music, 1960-62 and 1967. Includes correspondence, cuttings, rules, notices of meetings, invitations to events at Antill's home, programs, financial statements and agenda. (File 4) - Box 20
Alfred Hill Fund Committee, 1960-69. Includes letters, correspondence, minutes, notes, account books and other papers relating to the Alfred Hill dinner and Alfred Hill Memorial Prize. (File 5_6) - Box 20
Royal Academy of Dancing, 1961. Includes correspondence, programs, notes, receipts, minutes and printed material. (File 7) - Box 20
Sydney Music Club, 1960-62 and 1974. Includes programs, receipts, agenda, financial statement, constitution and notes for a speech by Antill. (File 8) - Box 20
Ballet and Accompanists Seminar, 1962. Includes questionnaires and correspondence. (File 9) - Box 20
"Ballantyne" papers, 1973-75.Includes receipts, notices of meetings, agenda, "Ballantyne" newsletter, correspondence, plans, and other papers relating to Antill's flat in Cronulla. (File 10_11) - Box 20, 21
Series 14. Scrap albums, 1924-86
Scrap albums containing programs, newspaper cuttings, correspondence, telegrams, extracts from reviews and articles; invitations; and other memorabilia relating to Antill's career.
See also series 17 for other programs and series 16 for newspaper cuttings.
Book I, 1924-80. Includes programs of performances of the NSW State Conservatorium of Music and the ABC. (File 1) - Box 22
Book V, 1957-75. Includes cuttings on Wakooka, G'day Digger and Symphony on a City. (File 5) - Box 23
Series 15. Photographs, 1878-1986
Early photographs, 1878-1935 including photos of family at Bristol; Antill's maternal grandmother, Marianne Elizabeth Baker; Constance Peaker as a young girl; Antill family portrait; Antill residence at Alt Street, Haberfield and photos from Antill's period in the Fuller Opera Co., 1935 (1 folder). (File 1) - Box 21
Photographs, 1939-66. Includes studio portraits of Antill as a young man; wedding photos of John and Constance Antill; photos of Antill's departure from Australia in 1946 and his return in 1947; scenes of Antill at home with his family, c.1950; photographs of the set of "Corroboree", 1950; and photos of the Antill family homes, 1966 (1 folder). (File 2) - Box 21
Photographs of John, Constance and Jill Antill at home, c.1950 and a photograph of graduates of St Andrew's Cathedral School including Antill and Charles Kingsford-Smith (1 bag). (File 3) - Box 21
Photographs of the Tattoo, Edinburgh Castle, 1961; portraits of Australian soprano Elsie Morison and overseas stars who toured Australia with the ABC, 1963-64; 1979 Edinburgh Festival photos; and photos of a dinner held for Austin Goldberg, musical teacher at St Andrew's Cathedral School (1 folder). (File 4) - Box 21
Photographs, 1984-86 including the bust of Eugene Goossens; photos of Antill as an old man; photo of Antill's 80th birthday; photos after the presentation of the Honorary Doctorate of Creative Arts, 1985; and photos of Antill, Beth Dean Carell and Bill Constable in 1986 (1 folder). (File 5) - Box 21
Photographs from album (Book I), 1946-72. Includes photos of Eugene Goossens; the dancers and set for the Corroboree ballet; scenes from Endymion; portraits of Antill; and the chorus of the 1972 South Pacific Festival of Arts, Fiji, 1972. (File 7) - Box 25
Photographs from album (Book II), c.1921-c.1978. Includes photos from Fiji, 1972; 1921 portrait of Antill; wedding photos, 1939. (File 8) - Box 25
Series 16. Newspaper cuttings, 1920-85 - Box 26
Newspaper cuttings kept by Antill relating to his career and other items of interest. Subjects include his work Corroboree; birthday tributes and concerts; his 1946 trip to London; Eugene Goossens; his trip to Fiji; his awards and biographical pieces.
Series 17. Programs, 1917-86
Programs and notices of performances of works written, conducted and attended by Antill, 1917-86. Includes programs of St Andrew's Cathedral Choir School; NSW State Conservatorium of Music; Sydney Symphony Orchestra; J.C. Williamson Imperial Grand Opera Co; Fuller Opera Co; Australian Broadcasting Commission; performances of Wakooka, Corroboree and other works. (File 1_8) - Box 27
Series 18. Miscellaneous Papers, 1904-86
Contains personal documents and other papers spanning Antill's life.
Papers, 1904-18. Includes a copy of Antill's birth certificate and military service book, 1918. (File 1) - Box 28
Papers, 1920-39. Includes drivers' licenses, papers relating to his 1933 Bowral concert, and Antill's 1937 will. (File 2) - Box 28
J.C. Williamson's Imperial Opera Co. New Zealand tour papers, 1932. Includes photographs of New Zealand, cuttings and momentos. (File 3) - Box 28
The Silver Troubadour papers, 1935. Includes program, script, cast list and other papers, relating to the performance of the light opera conducted by Antill. (File 4) - Box 28
Papers, 1942-49. Includes ration cards, papers relating to Antill's 1946/47 trip to London; identity card, and papers on the estate of J.N. Antill, 1948. (File 5) - Box 28
Papers, 1950-58. Includes agendas of the State Arts Committee for the Commonwealth Jubilee Celebrations, papers relating to the death of Constance Antill and Antill's 1957 will. (File 6) - Box 29
Papers, 1960-69. Includes papers relating to the Sydney Opera House Appeal Aria Competition which Antill judged in 1962; and papers relating to the estate of Ada I. Burton. (File 7) - Box 29
Papers, 1970-78. Includes a list of telegrams and letters received congratulating Antill on his OBE; receipts; notes relating to the estate of John Henry Antill; and a copy of "Report on Aoba, New Hebrides: field work in ethnomusicology 1974" by Peter Crowe. (File 8) - Box 29
Papers on Peter Antill-Rose's bankruptcy, 1976 and the mortgage on Antill's Cronulla flat, 1980. (File 9) - Box 29
Papers, 1979-80 containing correspondence, and cuttings relating to Antill and Corroboree. (File 10) - Box 29
Papers, 1980-86. Includes papers relating to Antill's 80th birthday; funeral program for Austin Goldberg; citation delivered on the occasion of the admission of Antill to the degree of Doctor of Creative Arts, 1985; and autographed order of service for the funeral of John Antill, 1986. (File 11) - Box 29
Undated miscellaneous papers including notes, typescripts, printed material, plans and drawings. (File 18_21) - Box 30
Series 19. Family Papers, 1872-1987
Papers of the Antill and Baker families including papers of Antill's wife, Constance Antill (neé Peaker) (d.1957); his daughter Jill (b.1945); his parents, John Henry Antill (1873-1948) and Marianne Elizabeth Antill (neé Baker) (1874-1944); his sister Dorothy Antill (b.1899); his aunt, Elsie Florence Baker; and his maternal grandmother, Marianne Elizabeth Baker (d.1925).
Subseries 19a. Constance Antill, 1908-56
Subseries 19c. John Henry Antill, 1901-30
World War I papers, 1914-17 including a 1917 diary containing a chronology of war service, 1915-16; notes; newspaper cuttings; photographs of troops in Egypt; letters and postcards from family and others, 1914-16 and other memorabilia (File 2_3) - Box 32
Subseries 19d. Marianne Elizabeth Antill (1874-1944), 1888-1951
Series 20. Music by other composers
Manuscript and printed music by other composers collected by Antill.
Series [unnumbered]. Sound recordings
Related Materials
Also see ORAL TRC 5196/1-4.
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