The University of Sydney - Australharmony

RUSSELL, William (William Russell WILKINS [sic]; William Wilkins RUSSELL; Mr. RUSSELL; RUSSEL)

Musician, professor of music, music and singing master, actor, theatrical manager, conductor, violinist, double bass player, pianist, organist

Born Surrey, England, 1807; baptised St. Mary's, Lambeth, 1 November 1807; son of William Russel WILKINS (c. 1781-1832) and Elizabeth ?
Arrived (1) Hobart, VDL (TAS), 31 May 1832 (per Medway, from London, 8 February)
Departed Hobart Town, VDL (TAS), 26 October 1843 (per Duckenfield, for London)
Arrived (2) Hobart Town, VDL (TAS), 10 December 1835 (per Derwent, from London, 9 August)
Married Sarah Ann PETCHEY (d. 1900), New Town, VDL (TAS), 6 March 1838
Died Shag Bay, TAS, 3 October 1892, aged "94"

https://trove.nla.gov.au/search?l-publictag=William+Wilkins+Russell (TROVE tagged by Australharmony)

RUSSELL, John (John Russell WILKINS [sic]; John Wilkins RUSSELL; Mr. J. RUSSELL; Mr. RUSSELL junior; Mr. John RUSSELL)

Musician, professor of music, instrumentalist

Born Surrey, England, 1826; baptised St. Mark, Kennington, 14 April 1826; son of William Russel WILKINS (c. 1781-1832) and Elizabeth ?
Arrived Hobart Town, VDL (TAS), 10 December 1835 (per Derwent, from London, 9 August)
Departed Hobart Town, VDL (TAS), after 1843 (for England)
Married Frances Mary HUDDART, St. Mary's church, Lambeth, Surrey, 30 October 1849
Died ? after 1881

RUSSELL, Emma (Emma Amelia Byworth RUSSELL; Miss Emma RUSSELL; Miss RUSSELL)

Teacher of music and singing

Born Hobart Town, VDL (TAS), 16 August 1849; daughter of William RUSSELL and Sarah Ann PETCHEY
Departed Sydney, NSW, September 1896 (per Oroya, for London)
Died Ryde, NSW, 1928

RUSSELL, Fannie (Frances Annie RUSSELL)

Teacher of music and singing

Born New Town, Hobart, TAS, c. 1860; daughter of William RUSSELL and Sarah Ann PETCHEY
Died Prahran, VIC, 1925, aged 65

RUSSELL, Trevor (Henry Percival Trevor RUSSELL; Mr. Trevor RUSSELL)

Musical amateur

Born New Town, Hobart, TAS, c. 1863; son of William RUSSELL and Sarah Ann PETCHEY
Died Artarmon, NSW, 17 January 1923, aged "60"

Summary

William Russell's death registration records his age as 94 (the newspapers "in his 94th year"), in which case he would have been born c. 1798-99. Yet, shortly after his arrival in 1832, Henry Melville, editor of The Tasmanian, described him as "that rising young performer Mr. Russell", suggesting that he was younger, perhaps in his 20s at the time, rather than in his 30s. Supporting this, Russell descendent Colleen Read (2008) suggested that William and his much younger brother John might in fact have been William Russel Wilkins (baptised 1807) and John Russel Wilkins (baptised 1826), sons of William Russel Wilkins senior (c. 1781-1832, who at the time of John's baptism in 1826 was sexton of St. Mark's church, Kennington), and his wife Elizabeth. William senior died at Oval and was buried at St. Mary, Lambeth, on 15 March 1832, aged "51". Nevertheless, at John's marriage at Lambeth in 1849, to the contralto vocalist and actor Fanny Huddart (d. 1880), he gave his father's name and rank as "Michael Russell (dec[eased]) Gent[leman]".

Notably, William junior and John are each on record as using Wilkins as their middle name only once - in their respective marriage records of 1838 and 1849. For all other purposes, official and casual, they were thereafter simply William Russell and John Russell.

William claimed, on arrival in Hobart in 1832, to have come "from the Theatres Royal, London", and his obituary says that he came from an "historic family". Wilkins' senior's adoption of Russell as a middle name, and then the sons making it their surname, suggests that Russell was the family connection in question. One possibility is the historic and more recent connections of the Russell family (the dukes of Bedford) with the theatres royal and theatricals in general (see, for instance, in the Hobart press in 1834, this account of Russell family theatricals).

However, another more relevant possible family connection might have been the Mr. Wilkins (an uncle, another brother?), who in 1834 was reported to be a violinist at Covent Garden (see also here John Wilkins). On his first arrival in Tasmania in 1832, William evidently told Melville that he:

would have formed one of Her Majesty's superior band, (consisting of only 13 of the first performers of the day), had not circumstances led him to emigrate to this colony.

If nothing more, this perhaps suggests that, before whatever "cicumstances" intervened, William might have occasionally performed for queen Adelaide, who actively encouraged young musicians, and whose private band was formed in 1830.

William's father having died in London in April 1832 while he himself was on his first voyage out, he eventually sailed again from Hobart to return to London on the Duckenfield in October 1835. Family business was perhaps the most likely reason, but after only 6 or 7 months in England, he returned on the Derwent, arriving in December 1835, now accompanied by his younger brother John, aged only 9. They were both no doubt interested on arrival to find the Irish violinist William Vincent Wallace had also recently arrived in Hobart.

On 6 March 1838, Russell married Sarah Ann Petchey (1819-1900), a daughter of the prominent Hobart businessman, John Petchey (c. 1788-1850), who arrived in Hobart Town in 1812 as a convict on the Indefatigable, and his wife Mary Skelhorne (d. 1843), who arrived in Van Diemen's Land as a very young child in 1804 with her mother Ann and stepfather William Gangell. According to Read (2008), among several unsigned and undated crayon drawings of women attributed to Thomas Bock in the Allport collection, Hobart, one is thought to be of Mrs. Sarah Ann Russell.

The Mr. Russells senior and junior, William and John, played in the theatre orchestra for John and Eliza Bushelle's concert in February 1843.

John Russell probably left Hobart for London shortly afterwards. After his marriage of Fanny Huddart in 1849, he continued to work as a professional theatre musician through the 1850s and early 1860s. In 1867, however, he took over the management of the annual summer promenade concert series at Covent Garden Theatre, and later managed opera seasons there, but made huge losses (see here for later documentation on John).

In his long Tasmanian career, William Russell appears to have had working relationships with most other important musicians active in Hobart from the 1830s through to the 1870s. Among his known music pupils was George Boyes's son Henry, who began lessons with Russell in 1849. In the early 1850s he also collaborated with painter Samuel Prout Hill on "musical and artistical entertainments".

In the 1880s, Russell's musical practice appears to have been continued by two of his daughters, Emma and Frannie.

His son, H. P. Trevor Russell (d. 1923) also took a lively amateur interest in classical music, and as a serial correspondent to the letters pages of city newspapers.

According to his obituary, William himself was "a valued contributor to the English Press", though no such contributions have yet been identified.

See also: https://trove.nla.gov.au/search?l-publictag=Opera+di+Camera 

See also: https://trove.nla.gov.au/search?l-publictag=Zillah+operetta 

Documentation

1826

Baptisms solemnized in the District Parish of St. Mark Kennington in the County of Surrey, in the year 1826; register 1825-44, page 27; London Metropolitan Archives

https://www.ancestry.com.au/imageviewer/collections/1558/images/31280_194573-00034 (PAYWALL)

No. 212 / April 14th [1826] John Russel / [son of] William & Elizabeth / Wilkins / Buckingham [?] Place / Sexton / . . .

1832

31 May 1832, arrival, per Medway

"SHIP NEWS", Colonial Times (5 June 1832), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8646505 

MAY 31. - Arrived the ship Medway, B. Wight, commander, from London direct, 8th February. Passengers . . . Mr. Russell . . .

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (29 June 1832), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4198012 

Our musical friends will be pleased to learn that the art has received a valuable acquisition in the recent arrival of Mrs. Davis and Mr. Russel, both very eminent professors both vocal and instrumental.

ASSOCIATIONS: Sophia Letitia Davis (vocalist, pianist)

[Advertisement], Colonial Times (3 July 1832), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8646553 

Academy of Music.
WILLIAM Russell from the Theatres Royal, London, begs to announce his arrival in this Colony, and most respectfully informs the Ladies and Gentlemen of Hobart Town and its vicinity, that he will meet Pupils, for the purpose of giving musical instruction.
Attendance will be given for the present, at the Cottage, corner of Liverpool and Harrington-street, (late the Police office) on Tuesday and Friday evenings, from 6 till 10 o'clock.
TERMS: £2 12s. 6d. per Quarter.
£8 8s. 0d. per Annum.
Classes will be formed, according to the attainment of the Pupils, and the Theory and Practice of Music accurately taught and illustrated from the best compositions of ancient and modern masters.
W. R. also begs to announce his intention of establishing an Amateur Concert, (to a limited number of subscribers) for the performance of vocal and instrumental music, on each alternate Wednesday evening, from 7 till 10 o'clock, (to which Pupils will have free admission) and such Pupils and Subscribers as have had sufficient practice, be allowed to join in the performance.
Terms of subscription to the Concert, £2 2s. per annum.
Attendance will be given at his residence, or in Schools and private families, on liberal terms.
For particulars and testimonials, as to character and abilities, W. R. begs to refer to Dr. Ross, at the Courier Office.

ASSOCIATIONS: James Ross (editor, Courier, see also immediately below)

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (6 July 1832), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4197871 

Mr. Russel who will join Mr. Dean's Concert on the 16th, is a violin performer of the first class, and would have formed one of Her Majesty's superior band, (consisting of only 13 of the first performers of the day), had not circumstances led him to emigrate to this colony.

23 July 1832 (originally advertised for 16 July), John Philip Deane's seventh concert

[News], Colonial Times (24 July 1832), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8646586 

Owing to the unfavorable weather all day yesterday, many persons were deterred from attending Mr. Deane's Seventh Concert in the evening. However malgré le temps, two hundred and forty of the most respectable of the inhabitants assembled to enjoy this rare musical treat. The evening's entertainment commenced with Mozart's celebrated military overture, which was performed in most excellent style by the band of the 63d regiment, Colonel Logan having, with his usual desire of furthering these entertainments, lent their services on the present occasion. These excellent musicians have considerably improved since we last had the pleasure of hearing them . . . but the performance which gave the greatest satisfaction, was Mr. Russell's solo on the violin. Many persons attended the Concert, purposely to hear this performance, and it was remarked, that it alone, was worth walking twenty miles to hear . . .

"Domestic Intelligence:, The Tasmanian (27 July 1832), 6

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233612848 

Notwithstanding the unfavourable state of the weather on Monday last, we are happy to state that Mr Deane's Concert, was attended by near three hundred persons; and the whole performance of the evening appeared to give very great and general satisfaction. The grand attraction of the evening, was unquestionably Mr. Russell: whose reputation as a violin player of the first class, has already been made known to our readers; and it is only giving this gentleman his due, for us to add, that high as expectations in this respect had been raised, they were nowise disappointed in the result. His Solo, "Rhodes Air," with variations, was indeed a masterly performance . . .

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (10 August 1832), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4197491 

Mrs. Davis's concert was exceedingly well attended on Tuesday, the Court house being filled to the doors. The performances gave very general satisfaction, the public of Hobart town being much delighted at so valuable additions to their stock of musical talent as Mrs. Davies and Mr. Russel have brought. We are pleased to see the public taste so much given to the enjoyment of so rational and innocent an amusement as these concerts afford.

"Domestic Intelligence", The Tasmanian (10 August 1832), 5

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233612906 

On Tuesday the lovers of music were regaled by Mrs. Davis's Concert. The performance commenced soon after eight o'clock, long before which time scarcely a seat in the spacious Court-house was left vacant. Mrs. Davis and Mr. Russell were evidently the favorites, and their performances well merited the reception they each received . . . The quintetto was passable only - indeed we might here mention, that the whole of the instrumental music was badly selected, and could not be compared to Mr. Deane's usual treats - the whole attraction intended was evidently Mrs. Davis, and little else was thought of by the manager, or the selector of the scheme. Messrs. Richenberg, Deane, Russell, and Marshall, although all performed as well as possible, made no effect; indeed, the nature of their parts would not allow them . . . One of the best pieces performed during the evening was the violin solo, accompanied by Mrs. Davis on the piano forte. With one exception Mr. Russell's performance was, without doubt, a master-piece - we allude to the bowing on the G fourth string - the strength was much above that required, and the force served to vibrate the string, so that the unison was not perfect. We have noticed the same in many players, but to fully explain the reason why the unison is not perfect in such cases, would take more room than is allowed us on the present occasion . . . The duetto of Messrs. Russell and Deane was well played, and that was all . . .

ASSOCIATIONS: John Philip Deane (violinist, concert promoter); Joseph Reichenberg (musician); John Marshall (musician); Band of the 63rd Regiment (military band); Henry Melville (editor, The Tasmanian, and Colonial Times)

7 August 1832, Sophia Davis, concert, Court House, Hobart Town

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (3 August 1832), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4197526 

CONCERT. MRS. DAVIS, respectfully announces to the Public of Hobart Town and its vicinity, that her CONCERT will take place in the Court House, on Tuesday the 7th August, 1832.
Part 1st. Overture, "Caliph of Bagdad" - Boildin [Boildieu] . . .
Quintetto - Haydn . . .
Solo violin - Mr. Russell, accompanied by Mrs. Davis on the Piano Forte - Rossini . . .
Part 2nd. Overture - Paer . . .
Duetto, Two violins, Messrs. Russell and Dean - Romberg . . .

[News], The Colonist and Van Diemen's Land Commercial and Agricultural Advertiser (3 August 1832), 4

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article201158354 

We are sorry that the correction of the bill of performance at Mrs. DAVIS'S Concert, as announced in the handbills, did not reach us in time for insertion in proper form. In place of Mr. RUSSELL'S solo on the violin, Mrs. DAVIS will sing the song by BAYLEY, "Sleep on thy Pillow," and Mr. REICHENBERG will perform the duett on the violin, with Mr. Deane.

[News], Colonial Times (7 August 1832), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8646616 

We are happy to find that the little misunderstanding between Mrs. Davis and Mr. Russel, has been arranged, and that the public favorite, Mr. Russel, will perform this evening, as first advertised. Our professionals are not yet sufficiently numerous to allow differences; if they join not hand and heart together, the public will care little for them, or their absurd bickerings. It is too much to imagine that support will be given to either one or the other side of a party question, such as that which had nearly arisen; indeed, in a small town like this, the whole corps may think itself fortunate if it obtains the encouragement it deserves.

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (31 August 1832), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4197367 

W. RUSSELL, BEGS to inform the inhabitants of New Norfolk and its vicinity, that in consequence of his having made an engagement to teach music at Miss Ring's establishment, he will be happy to attend any private families in the neighbourhood, for the purpose of instructing on the Piano forte.

[News], Colonial Times (9 October 1832), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8646695

It is with no trifling degree of pleasure that we look forward to the proposed Concert of Mrs. Davis and Mr. Deane . . . Several amateurs are spoken of as likely to assist on the occasion, and a violin solo, by Mr. Russell will be an extra inducement for very many to attend the Concert.

1 November (previously advertised for 30 October), Davis's and Deane's concert

"Domestic Intelligence", The Tasmanian (2 November 1832), 6

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233613143 

The Concert yesterday evening, at the Court-house, was not so numerously attended as we have seen the case on former occasions; but various circumstances combined to prevent several persons from attending, who had supplied themselves with tickets, so that we are happy to find the loss rather belonged to the parties who were thus unavoidably absent, than to the spirited projectors of this delightful species of amusement. Among the grand attractions of the evening, were our newly arrived stars Mrs. Davis and Mr. Russell . . . Mr. Russell played well, for we apprehend it is more easy for this gentleman to play well, than badly - else we should say, we think we have heard him to more advantage than upon this occasion. Mr. Russell must also give us leave to tell him, that a little more attention to the business of the evening, than he is in the habit of displaying, would be thought becoming; and at all events, spare many observations at his expense, which it has given us pain to hear . . . But the performance which in this instance, unquestionably gave the greatest satisfaction, was that of Miss Deane, upon the Piano-forte, and of Master Edward Deane, a little boy of seven years old, upon the violin . . . he played his part in a quintette, with a taste and accuracy, which would have reflected credit upon a finished performer.

19 November 1832, Davis's and Deane's second concert

"The Concert", The Colonist and Van Diemen's Land Commercial and Agricultural Advertiser (23 November 1832), 2-3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article201158915 

On Monday evening last, the Public were entertained at the Court House, with a Melange of Vocal and Instrumental Music, combined with a Theatrical exhibition of Mr. RAY's "At Home"- the Vocal Performance by Mrs. DAVIS and Mr. RAY, &c. The instrumental by our young musical prodigy, Miss DEANE, Messrs. RUSSELL, MARSHALL, DEANE, &c. . . . Mr. RUSSELL's violin drew forth long continued applauses . . .

ASSOCIATIONS: "Mr. Ray", alias of Joseph Simmons (actor vocalist); Rosalie Deane (pianist)

"Domestic Intelligence", The Tasmanian (7 December 1832), 5

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233613243 

Mr. Richenberg and Mr. Russell contemplate affording an evening's amusement very shortly of vocal and instrumental music, to conclude with an exhibition entirely novel in this Colony. It is to be hoped they will meet with encouragement, particularly that veteran Mr. Richenberg, whose goodness of heart alone has stimulated him upon this occasion, for the benefit and encouragement of that rising young performer Mr. Russell, whom some parties, as it is said, have hitherto endeavoured to keep in the back ground. - From a Correspondent.

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (7 December 1832), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4195481 

We learn with pleasure that those favourites of the public Mr. Reichenberg and Mr. Russell are getting up a concert of vocal and instrumental music in a very superior style, with some other interesting entertainments which will be given to the public in the course of the ensuing Christmas holydays.

28 December 1832, Reichenberg and Russell's juvenile fete

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (28 December 1832), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4194762 

MESSRS. REICHENBERG & RUSSELL respectfully announce to the inhabitants of Hobart town, that a Juvenile Fete will be given (by permission) at the Court House, on Friday evening Dec. 28, 1832, the amusements to commence with a Concert of Vocal and Instrumental Music, and conclude with the exhibition of a splendid Phantasmagoria, introducing illustrations from history, and a great variety of humorous subjects.
Admission for children under 10 years of age 3s., above 10 5s. each.
Tickets to be had of Mr. Wood, Liverpool street, and of Mr. Dean [sic], at his Circulating Library.
Doors to be open at a quarter before 7 o'clock, and Concert commence at half past 7.

1833

21 January 1833, Davis's and Deane's Christmas concert (Russell did not take part)

"Domestic Intelligence", The Tasmanian (25 January 1833), 6

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233613383 

The lovers of music had a great treat, on Monday evening last, at the Court House, upon the occasion of the Concert, given by Mr. Deane and Mrs. Davis . . . It is unnecessary to speak very particularly of the performance, for the public are already so well acquainted with the peculiar merits of each individual, that took the leading vocal and instrumental parts, that when we say, we never remember to have heard either of them to greater advantage, all that we wish to convey, will be at once understood. Nevertheless, we cannot forbear ourselves the gratification of bearing testimony . . . to Mr. Deane's Solo upon the violin. His performance completely reconciled the audience to any fancied loss, they might have sustained from the very ill-judged, extraordinary secession, of Mr. Russell from our Concerts. This young gentleman will be taught by one or two similar exhibitions on the part of Mr. Deane, to form a more just estimate of his own pretensions, than he seems at present to possess . . .

"Domestic Intelligence", The Tasmanian (1 March 1833), 4

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233613485 

We are happy to find that the attractive powers of Mr. Deane's exhibition of Pictures seems rather to increase than otherwise . . . and in the evening the inducement to visitors is greatly increased by some of the excellent music, for which Mr. Deane's interesting family is so distinguished. Mr. Marshall also frequently accompanies on the flute. Mr. Russell, we are sorry to learn, seriously comtem- [7] -plates giving up the violin, otherwise we understand, he also would occasionally join. He will undoubtedly be a very great loss, but less felt than he would have been had he not for some time past, made himself so scarce. Next to not possessing a thing, is the scarcely knowing that such a thing exists.

29 July 1833, Davis's and Deane's concert

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (26 July 1833), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4191159 

MR. DEANE AND MRS. DAVIS'S FOURTH OONCERT, Assisted by MESSRS. REICHENBERG, RUSSELL, PECK AND FULHAM (Late of the Theatre Royal Dublin), WILL take place on Monday evening next, July the 29th, at the Court House, Hobart town.
Part First. Overture, "Tancredi," - Rossini . . .
Part Second. Overture, "La Villanella Rapita" - Mozart . . .
Leader, Mr. Russell; Violin Obligato, Mr. Peck; Conductor, Mr. J. P. Deane . . .

[News], Colonial Times (30 July 1833), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8647129 

The Fourth Concert of Mr. Deane and Mrs. Davis, took place yesterday evening, and never in the Court House of Hobart Town has there been witnessed either such a numerous assemblage, or a more respectable audience. Judging from a cursory glance, we should imagine there must have been present, some three hundred and fifty persons . . .

The audience became impatient before the time announced for the commencement of the Concert, and the room being quite filled, it was thought advisable to begin, and Rossini's Overture to "Tancredi" was given in a style which would not have disgraced the Philharmonic. The band of the 63d regiment, in addition to the very numerous corps of professionals and amateurs, did ample justice to the piece, and had we fallen asleep, and been awoke suddenly during its performance, our first impression would have been, that we were either in a theatre or a concert-room at home. The whole of the instrumental music performed, was highly creditable, but the first overture was certainly the best . . .

Mr. Peck stepped forward and performed (as we supposed, for we never heard Paganini) one of the celebrated pieces of that eighth wonder of the world. In the "Solo," Mr. Peck shewed himself a complete master of his instrument . . . Taking Mr. Peck as a violin performer only, we unhesitatingly say, he is by far the best in the Colony. There are several pieces Mr. Russell would perform better than Mr. Peck - but again the latter would play with ease many which Mr. Russell would not attempt . . .

ASSOCIATIONS: George Peck (violinist); Mr. Fulham (vocalist)

"THE CONCERT", The Austral-Asiatic Review (5 November 1833), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232475748 

Mr. Peck's Concert took place as advertised on Wednesday evening. We apprehend, however, that Mr. Deane's inauspicious partnership with Mrs. Davis having been dissolved, a new and infinitely more congenial alliance has been formed with Mr. Peck . . . The great lion of the evening was Mr. Peck, of course, and well indeed did he justify the highest anticipations which have been formed of him. We have no hesitation in saying, that he is incomparably the best English performer on the violin we ever heard out of London . . . A Gentleman, (Mr. Adam Smith,) who from Mr. Peck's arrival has made every possible exertion to serve him, was kind enough to appear publicly on this occasion as an "Amateur" performer. It is well known what the term generally means. Mr. Romeo Coates was the very beau ideal of Amateurism. Not so, however Mr. Peck's friend, who not only performed the little which he attempted well and correctly, but shewed that he did so, merely to carry Mr. Peck, (who with Messrs. Deane and Russell accompanied him,) into the middle of a beautiful "Harmonic" (as is the phrase) and there to leave him, and delightfully did Mr. Peck continue the strain, and warmly was he deservedly applauded by the whole audience . . .

ASSOCIATIONS: Adam Smith (amateur violinist)

[2 advertisements], The Colonist and Van Diemen's Land Commercial and Agricultural Advertiser (3 December 1833), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article201157985 

MESSRS. PECK and RUSSELL most respectfully inform their friends and the Public in general, that they will give, during the Race week, a Concert of Vocal and Instrumental Music, at the British Hotel, Assembly Rooms, Launceston. Messrs. P. and R. trust, from the great expense attending the getting up a Concert at Launceston, a generous Public will honor them with their patronage and support.

W. RUSSELL, begs to announce, that he intends giving his "Second Christmas Juvenile Fete," the latter end of this month; particulars of which will be made known in a future advertisement.

5 December 1833, concert, Launceston

[Advertisement], Launceston Advertiser (5 December 1832), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article84775979 

CONCERT OF VOCAL AND INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC.
MR. PECK, who had the honor of getting up the First Concert in Launceston, respectfully informs his numerous Friends and the Public in general, that in conjunction with Messrs. Russell and Penphraze, of Hobart Town, and some of the Amateurs of Launceston, who have kindly offered their services for the occasion, he will give a
CONCERT OF VOCAL AND INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC, in the Assembly Rooms of the British Hotel, on Thursday Evening, December 5th.
Principal Vocalist, Mr. Penphraze - Pianist, Mr. Russell - Violin Obligato, Mr. Peck.
PART I.
Overture - Tancredi - Rossini. Song - Mr. Penphraze - "Why is love for ever changing," Blewitt.
Solo - Violin - Mr. Perk, selected from various works of Mayspder, De Beriot, and others, introducing the familiar airs of "Auld Ro bin Grey," & "Over the water to Charlie."
Glee - "Winds gently Whisper," - Bishop.
Song - Mr. Penphraze - "Be mine dear maid."
Duett - Two violins - Messrs. Peck and Russell - Rode.
Comic Song - "The Great Mogul and the Bluebottle," - Beuler.
PART 2.
Orerture - The Caliph of Bagdad - Boildieu.
Song - Mr. Penphraze - "O tell me do you ever," - Sporle.
Fantazia - Piano Forte and Violin - Messrs. Russell and Peck - Kreutzer.
The celebrated Laughing Glee - "Why sure there never met," - Addison.
Recitative and Air, arranged from Der Frieschutz [sic] - "The Plain Gold Ring," - Weber.
Solo- violin - Mr. Peck, to be performed entirely on the 4th string, composed and performed by Paganini, at various concerts in England and on the continent.
Song - "Time is ever changing," Bishop.
Finale - "God save the King."
Doors to be opened at 7, and performance to commence precisely at 8 o'clock.
Tickets, 7s. 6d. each, to be had at the British Hotel, and Advertiser and Independent offices, Launceston.
Messrs. Peck and Russell trust, that from the great expense attending the getting up of a Concert in Launceston, they will be honored with the patronage and support of a generous and discerning public.

ASSOCIATIONS: William Penphrase (vocalist, actor)

1834

Ross's Van Diemen's Land annual and Hobart Town almanack for the year 1834 (Hobart: James Ross, 1834), 30

. . . Mr. Reichenberg, Mr. Deane, Mr. Russel, Mr. Peck are established Teachers of Music

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (24 January 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4187820 

We are glad to observe that Mr. Deane and Mr. Russel still keep up their annual musical treat for the entertainment of the young at the end of the holydays, which takes place in the Court house, on Monday evening. From the number of tickets already bespoke, we anticipate the usual share of public patronage which these favourite performers have hitherto met with.

27 January 1834, Deane and Russell's juvenile fete

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (24 January 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4187825 

MESSRS. Russell and Deane, beg to announce that the juvenile fete will be given at the Court House, on Monday evening next, the 27th of Jan., when a concert of vocal and instrumental music will take place.
PART 1st,
Overture, Caliph of Bagdad, - Boildeu
Song, Mrs. Taylor, Sale of Loves - Stevenson
Song, Typpety witchet, in character by Mr. Taylor - Grimaldi
Solo, Piano forte, Miss Dean, Piu Mesta, with variations - Herz
Song, Mrs. Henson, Love called on me one morning
Trio, Great A little a - Dr. Arnold
Song, Mrs. Taylor, Oh they march through the town - A. Lee.
Finale, Dill, Dill, Dill - Dr. Arnold.
PART 2nd. Overture, Semiramede - Rossini
Duet, Mrs. Taylor and Mr. Deane, When a little farm we keep
Song, Mrs.Henson, Coming through the rye
Trio, instrumental, Miss Deane, Messrs. Deane and Russell
Song, Mrs. Taylor, Oh 'tis a joyous day.
Trio, Giant and two children - Dr. Arnold
Solo, Flute - Nicholson
Song, Mrs. Taylor, Strike for Tyrol and liberty - Rosini
Finale, Chorus.
Doors to be opened at half past 6 o'clock, performance to commence at quarter past 7. Tickets 5s, not transferable - Under 12 years of age 3s., to be had of Mr. J. P. Deane, and of Mr. Wood.

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (31 January 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4187471 

Messrs. Russel and Deane's juvenile fete at the Court House on Monday was received with the most immoderate shouts of applause by the holyday young folks. The giant scene especially delighted them, and the performers were compelled by vociferous encores to repeat it. A real clown and pantaloon came upon the stage, and after going through the customary exploits and mishaps, some children with a large Christmas pie are introduced, but just as they are about to partake of it, the crust is broken, & while the orchestra plays the roast beef of old England, a great cat jumps out, while the growling of a tremendous giant is heard at a distance, to interrupt them. He comes on and after frightening their wits away, the whole join in chorus of Fi, fa, fum.

ASSOCIATIONS: Maria Taylor (vocalist)

6, 10, 13, and 14 February 1834, juvenile entertainments, soirees

[Advertisement], Trumpeter General (4 February 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article172894996 

IN consequence of the short notice given for the Juvenile Fete, several families were disappointed. Messrs. Deane and Russell therefore beg to announce, that the "Pantomine Scene," [sic] with "Giant Grumbo's Trio," (as performed at the Court-House), will be repeated on Thursday evening next, at Mr. Deane's Rooms, with a variety of vocal and instrumental music. Admittance 2s. each, under 12 years of age, 1s. To commence at 1/4 before 8 o'clock.

15 March 1834, oratorio

"THE ORATORIO", The Tasmanian (14 March 1834), 7

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233614489 

To-morrow, Mr. Deane's noble New Concert Room will be open, with one of the most interesting entertainments of modern times - a performance of Sacred Music by the most eminent composers . . . The instrumental performers are the whole which Mr. Deane could obtain. Messieurs Peck, Reichenberg, Russell, and Marshall are well known and admired that it is sufficient to name them . . .

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (14 March 1834), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4186174 

ORATORIO.
MR. DEANE respectfully informs the inhabitants of. Hobart town and its vicinity, that a selection of Sacred Music will be performed at the Argyle Rooms,
on Saturday, March 15th 1834.
Principal Performers.
Mrs. Inkersole, Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Henson, Mr. Richenberg, Mr. Russell, Mr. Peck, and Mr. McCloud.
assisted (by permission) by the band of his Majesty's 21st Regiment.
PART 1ST.
Grand Symphony - Mozart.
Anthem - Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Henson and Mr. Marshall - Our Lord is risen from the dead" - Dr. Arnold.
Quartett - Haydn.
Song - Mrs. Inkersole, Lord remember David - Handel.
Solo - Piano Forte, Miss Deane - J. B. Cramer.
Song - Mrs. Henson, He was rejected - Handel.
Recit. Mrs. Davis - And God said let there be light -
Chorus -The Heavens are telling - Haydn.
PART 2ND.
Military Overture - De Zelmire - Rossini.
Song - Mrs. Davis - Let the bright Seraphim, Trumpet obligato acct. - Handel.
Solo, Violin - Mr. Peck - Mayseder.
Song - Mrs. Inkersole, Lord to thee each, night and day - Handel.
Solo, flute, - Nicholson.
Anthem - Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Henson - Hear my prayer - Kent.
Chorus - Hallelujah - Handel.
Leader, Mr. Russell- Violin principal, Mr. Peck.
Conductor, Mr. J. P. Deane.
Tickets (not transferable) 7s. each
Children 5s.
To be had at Mr. J. P. Deane's, Circulating library, Argyle street, and at Mr. Wood's, Liverpool street.
Door to be open at 7 o'clock, the performance will commence at 8 o'clock.

ASSOCIATIONS: Hannah Inkersole (vocalist); Mrs. Henson (vocalist, actor); Angus McLeod, master of the Band of the 21st Regiment

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (28 March 1834), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4185903 

ARGYLE ROOMS. MESSRS. RUSSELL & DEANE beg to inform their juvenile friends and the public generally, that on Easter Monday next, will be given, a selection of vocal and instrumental music, to conclude with the laughable entertainment, called "Hop O' my Thumb," or the "Ogre and Seven League Boots." Performance to commence at 8 o'clock. Admittance to Boxes 2s. Gallery 1s. Boxes can be engaged at the library. March 25, 1834.

14 April 1834, pantomime, Theatre, Argyle Rooms

"THE NEW PANTOMIME", The Colonist and Van Diemen's Land Commercial and Agricultural Advertiser (22 April 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article201157930 

On the evening of Monday the 14th, the new Pantomime of "Harlequin Tom the Piper's Son," or "The Fairy of the Moon," was got up at Mr. Deane's New Argyle Rooms, in the most creditable style. The piece was selected and arranged by Mr. Russel, and really, is very good. The old song about Tom the Piper's Son stealing the pig, is somewhat varied, and the story of the Pantomime is as follows: -
"Tom is discovered, in the first scene, lying asleep, when the Fairy of the Moon appears to him in a dream, and having recounted his persecutions by Old Gaffer Broadbrim, declares that for his goodness of heart, she will befriend him, and, accordingly, gifts his pipe with magic music, so that all who hear it, whether friends or foes, must "dance for their very lives." Tom awakes, and, remembering his dream, hastens to Phoebe, his beloved, to tell her the good tidings; and, just as he is about to give her a specimen of the fairy music, Old Gaffer Broadbrim and his dame (Phoebe's father and mother) knock at the door and disturb the lovers. Tom conceals himself under the table. Them comes the story of the pig, which the old couple have for supper; and, while quarreling about the carving thereof, up jumps Tom, carries off the pig, and runs away. Chase is instantly given; two watchmen come in, and, after much uproarious clamor, Tom is brought back; and is on the eve of being dragged to the watch-house, when he produces his pipe and plays. They all fall a dancing, even to the very lanthorns of the watchmen, when suddenly the old woman snatches the pipe, and is about to break it, but is prevented by the entrance of the Fairy, who changes them into the pantomimic characters of Harlequin, Columbine, Clown, and Pantaloon - a set of comical tricks follows, together with a round compliment of cuffs, blows, blunders, &c. &c. -
Upon the whole, the entertainment went off exceedingly well.

15 and 19 May 1834, Theatre, Argyle Rooms, concert and Love laughs at locksmiths, and The waterman

[Advertisement], Colonial Times (13 May 1834), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8647590 

Theatre, Argyle Rooms.
MR. DEANE begs to announce that a selection of Vocal and Instrumental Music will be given on Thursday Evening next; after which will be performed the Farce of "Love laughs at Locksmiths."
Captain Beldare - Mr. Mackay
Risk - Mr. Pemphraze
Vigil - Mr. Russell
Totterton - Mr. Townshend
Solomon Lob - By an Amateur
Lydia - Mrs. Mackay.
May 13th, 1834.

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (16 May 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4185232 

THEATRE-ARGYLE ROOMS.
MR. DEANE begs to acquaint the Public that on Monday evening next will be given a selection of Vocal and Instrumental Music after which, Mr. Mackay will dance the celebrated "Highland Fling."
The amusements to conclude with Dibdin's celebrated ballad opera - THE WATERMAN, Or the 1st of August.
Bundle., Mr. Russel - Tom Tug, Mr. Penphraze - Robin, Mr. Henson - Wilhelmina, Mrs. Mackay - Mrs. Bundle, Mrs. Henson.

ASSOCIATIONS: Angus B. Mackay (actor); Frances Mackay (actor, vocalist)

MUSIC: The comic opera of Love laughs at locksmiths, performed at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, with universal applause, composed & selected by Michael Kelly (London: M. Kelly, [1803])

https://archive.org/details/comicoperaoflove00kell (DIGITISED)

"Domestic Intelligence", Colonial Times (27 May 1834), 5

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8647611 

At the Theatre last evening, a misunderstanding occurred between some of the actors, which had the effect of most suddenly terminating the evening's amusement. The first act of "The Waterman" was scarcely over, when some low fellows in the gallery put the whole house in an uproar by calling upon Mr. Pemphrase for a hornpipe. We never before heard of so unreasonable a demand ever having been made by any audience; and Mr. Deane, after consulting behind the scenes, very properly went on with the musical performance, and the green curtain drew up for the second act - again did the two or three low fellows in the gallery, (whom we have reason to believe went to the Theatre for the express purpose of annoying the Public) recommence their cries for the hornpipe. Mr. Russell then spoke to the audience, and asked what they wished? Most persons cried "to order," when Mr. Mackay, seeing the strange inroad to disorder, by allowing the gods of the gallery, or any half-dozen noisy troublesome fellows, to call for just what kind of performance they pleased, jumped on the stage, and behind the scenes protested against the hornpipe. Mr. Mackay was stage manager, and therefore on him devolved the whole responsibility of the stage management. Mr. Mackay, however, no sooner protested against the horn- pipe, than Mr. Pemphrase felt himself agrieved, and, as Mr. Mackay describes, not only grossly insulted himself, as stage manager, but also grossly insulted Mrs. Mackay. A great uproar was heard behind the scenes, so much so, that the piece could scarcely proceed. After squabbling for sometime, Mrs. Mackay came off the stage, and bonnetted and cloaked, left the room. When she was required to perform her part, there was no Mrs. Mackay, and so Pappa Bundle was obliged to apologize for the non appearance of his daughter, which he did by saying, "Mrs. Mackay having left the Theatre, the piece could not be gone on with." Here was a pretty kettle of fish! A regular row followed - Mr. Mackay was called upon to explain, which he did by stating that his wife and himself had been most grossly insulted; he was there as stage manager, and as such had interfered against any irregular proceedings; and was at his post to do his duty, but that Mr. Pemphrase threatened to kick him off the stage. After hearing Mr. Mackay for a short time, the same noisy fellows to whom we before alluded, tried to cry down Mr. Mackay; but the respectable and thinking part of the community were willing to hear and believe him. Suddenly, however, Mr. Pemphrase popped upon the stage, and then he was hooted with applause by the gallery folks - more particularly so, by the two or three. This appeared just what these fellows wanted. We verily believe they purposely went there to "kick up a row," and with the further intention, too, of causing open war between their friend Pemphrase and Mr. and Mrs. Mackay, "the mighty fine actors." Mr. Pemphrase, on his honour as a gentleman, said something about never having insulted a lady. But Pemphrase had the best of it - he had the gods in his favor. Pemphrase was hooted with applause; and Mackay hooted with hisses. Mr. Mackay took leave of the stage - he could do nothing else. Now for a word or two of our own advice by way of moral. The proprietor of a Theatre, or any public place of amusement, should have a will of his own - and the public ought not to be allowed to interfere with the amusements. What would be thought of a manager of a Theatre in London, who would permit "Pretty Polly Hopkins" to be sung between the fourth and fifth act of Richard the Third? and yet that would not be more outre than would a hornpipe from a waterman, in the little piece of The Waterman. We were half inclined to call upon Mr. Deane for a song, or upon Mr. Russell for a violin solo, in order to shew the absurdity of the public request; but we beg pardon - it was not the public request, it was the request only of two or three low-life fellows, who, by some unaccountable means, found their way into the gallery. Mrs. Mackay did wrong in leaving the Theatre; for however insulted she might have considered herself, still the public, with whom she is most deservedly a great favorite, did far from insult her - the public loudly applauded her. But in extenuation we might urge, perhaps, in her favor, that in the heat of the moment she felt indignant, and was determined not to perform again on those boards with those whom she thought had insulted herself and her husband. We yet hope matters may be reconciled between all parties - the Theatre has afforded much amusement, and everything has hitherto gone off satisfactorily. Mr. and Mrs. Mackay are the principal attraction, and with a little bending on either side, the interests of all may be promoted.

2 June 1834, second performance of The bushrangers, Theatre, Argyle Rooms

[Advertisement], The Tasmanian (30 May 1834), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233614725 

Theatre, Argyle Rooms.
ON Monday Evening next, a selection of Vocal and Instrumental Music, with a variety of amusements.
To conclude with (for he second time) a new Melo-Drama, called THE BUSHRANGERS.
Mr. Norwood - Mr. Townshend; Frederick - Mr. Campbell;
Murrahwa - Mr. Pemphrase; Marian - Mrs. Henson; Ellen - Miss Watson.
Bushrangers -
Bill Fellows - Mr. Russell
Charly Hoodwink - Mr. Henson
Harry Fawkes - Mr. Lee
Boxes 2s. - Gallery 1s. May 30, 1834.

ASSOCIATIONS: John Herman Selwyn Lee (actor)

PLAY: The bushrangers (by Henry Melville)

"THE THEATRE", Trumpeter General (10 June 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article172895615 

On Thursday night we witnessed the performance of a Farce called "The Deaf Lover," at Mr. Deane’s New Theatre. We recollect seeing the same piece at Drury-lane Theatre some years ago, under the title of "Deaf as a Post," when the inimitable Liston performed the part of Meadows . . . Mr. Russel in the character of old Wronghead, and Mr. Townsend as Sternhold, exerted themselves to give effect to their different characters, but in our opinion considerably over-acted their parts. The seeking the applause of the galleries by clap trap is beneath them, and should be avoided . . . However, the piece was received by an indulgent audience with much good humour, and, provided Mr. Deane in place of his vocal and instrumental music (some parts of which by-the-bye is getting very stale) favor the public with two Farces instead of one, we have no doubt of his having a successful Winter Season.

26 June 1834, amateur theatricals

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (4 July 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4184337 

On Friday evening a delightful entertainment was given by a party of young gentlemen to a large and highly respectable company at the Freemasons' tavern. The amusements commenced with the performance of Home's classic tragedy of Douglas, enacted to the life by the amateur party on the little stage recently occupied by Mr. Cameron . . . Mr. Wood did the duties of stage-manager and prompter, and Mr. Reichenberg, Mr. Offer, Mr. Deane and sons, Mr. Russel and others assisted in the orchestra. An excellent supper was provided for the occasion, and the dancing was kept up till a late hour. No entertainment in the colony was ever more rationally conducted or passed off more pleasantly.

ASSOCIATIONS: Samson Cameron (actor, manager); John Offor (musician)

"Deane's Theatre", The True Colonist Van Diemen's Land Political Despatch (26 August 1834), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article200327997 

. . . Mr. Russell was a very great favourite with us in his original character of a violin player; and having ourselves little, or rather, no scientific knowledge of, or natural ear for music, we admired Mr. Russell's manner of handling his instrument more than any other violin player we ever saw; and though we could not criticise his performance, we could feel and admire its effect. But Mr. Russell is only, if we may use the expression, a make-shift actor; and his conduct on a recent occasion, either as manager, or whatever character he thought proper to assume in the orchestra, though it might be fitting and proper to an audience, composed) of the lowest rabble, was evidently most improper, unprecedented, and intolerable, when exhibited before an audience, any part of which, was composed of educated persons, who had ever moved in society of the slightest polish. We refer to the occasion, when Mr. Russell was pleased to rise up in the Orchestra, and insult the audience, by threatening to turn out some gentlemen, who uttered the usual, and on the occasion referred to, most proper expression of disapprobation at the conduct of an actor, whom he, Mr. Russell, as manager, if he be manager, ought to have compelled to make a very humble apology to the audience, before he had ever permitted him again to appear before them . . .

[Advertisement], The Tasmanian (12 September 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233615013 

Theatre, Argyle Rooms. ON MONDAY next, September 15, for the Benefit of MRS. HENSON . . .
he whole to conclude with Dibdin's celebrated Ballad Opera, "THE WATERMAN."
Bundle - Mr. Russell; Tom Tug - Mr. Penphraze; Robin - Mr. Henson;
Mrs. Bundle - Mrs. Henson; Wilhemina - Miss Remens . . .

ASSOCIATIONS: Anne Remens (vocalist, actor, later Mrs. Clarke)

"Theatre", The True Colonist Van Diemen's Land Political Despatch (16 September 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article200327825 

Thursday last, was Mr. Campbell's Benefit. The Theatre was filled, and an extra hand or two were in the Orchestra. Towards the close of the first piece, there appeared to be an unusual bustle behind the scenes, portending evil. When the curtain dropped after the first part of the performance, Mr. Mackay came forward, and returned, thanks for the liberal support he had received at his benefit, and added, that he was sorry to inform the Public, that Mr. Deane had refused to allow him to play for the Benefits of his brother Performers. The gods called loudly for an explanation, and Mr. Russel came forward, but was received with one general burst of groans and hisses, which he was unable to stand against; when the first burst had subsided, Mr. Russell staled, that Mr. Mackay had grossly insulted Mr. Deane and his family, for which reason he had been discharged. Mr. Mackay denied having insulted Mr. Deane - Mr. Russell persisted in the assertion, and, having alluded in some shape to Mr. Pemphrase, that person came on the stage, and a scene of unequalled confusion and uproar ensued in which all the actors and actresses (save Mr. Campbell and Miss Remans who very prudently kept behind the scenes,) joined. At length words came to blows; Mr. Mackay and Mr. Russell were setting-to in one corner of the stage - Mr. Penphrase, and some other person in another. The green curtain rose, and fell several times, and the whole appeared to best effect. Mr. Deane attempted to speak, but was silenced - indeed, after Mr. Russell's assurance, in stating that he did not care for fifty thousand such individuals as were there present, amongst whom were several Magistrates and Gentlemen of substance, it could not be wondered at.

The issue is, that Mr. and Mrs. Mackay and Mr. Penphrase have left Mr. Deane, and taken a room at the Calcutta Hotel, where they intend to perform. Mr. Deane is thus left with half a company, composed of all the sticks in the old company, except one or two. Neither house, supposing that Mr. Mackay opens his, can possibly pay the Proprietor and the performers, and either must be a juggle on the Public. The best and most beneficial mode for either, will be for Mr. Deane and his actors to come to an understanding, and let old feuds pass away. The Public will then be pacified and as Mr. Russell is departing for England, there will not be so much fear of an insult being offered by Mr. Deane.

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (26 September 1834), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4183289 

We shall be sorry to lose so good a musician as Mr. Russell from our little stock of professors, who is returning to his native country by the Cleopatra. His farewell benefit takes place this evening, when a very crowded house is anticipated.

26 September 1834, Russell's farewell benefit, Theatre, Argyle Rooms

[Advertisement], Colonial Times (23 September 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8647822 

Theatre, Argyle Rooms.
W. RUSSELL, begs leave to inform the Ladies and Gentlemen of Hobart Town and its vicinity, that his
FAREWELL BENEFIT, previous to leaving this place for England, will take place on Friday next, 26th Sept.,
when will be performed the Opera of the
LORD OF THE MANOR.
Rashly - Mr. Hodges
Sir John Contrast - Mr. Russell
Contrast - Mr. Capper
La Nippe - Mr. Campbell
Rental - Mr. Lee
Tremor - An Amateur.
Serjeants, &c. &c. &c.
Annette - Miss Remans
Peggy - Miss Rudelhoff
Sophia - Mrs. Henson
Moll Flagon - An Amateur.
After which Mr. Marshall will play a Solo on the Flute.
And, by particular desire, Miss Remans will sing the "Dashing white Serjeant," and "Soldier tired of Wars Alarms."
To conclude with the Farce of
MY SPOUSE AND I.
Wilton - Mr. Hodges
Frisk - Mr. Campbell
Dick - Mr. Lee
Paddock - Mr. Capper
Ned - An Amateur
Props - Mr. Shribbs
Hodge - Mr. Henson
Dame Paddock - Mrs. Henson
Harriet - Miss Rudelhoff
Janet - Miss Watson.
Leader of the Orchestra, Mr. Leffler.
Tickets (positively not transferable) 5s. each; to be had only of Mr. Deane or Mr. Russell - which regulation will be strictly adhered to.
Doors to be opened at 7 o'clock; performance to commence at half-past 7 precisely.
Sept 23, 1834.

ASSOCIATIONS: Dinah Rudelhoff (actor, vocalist, later Mrs. Murray); Edmund Leffler (leader)

[Advertisement], The Tasmanian (10 October 1834), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233615109 

Theatre, Argyle Rooms. FOR THE BENEFIT OF MISS REMENS.
ON Monday next, the 13th October . . . The whole to conclude with
THE RENDEZVOUS - Quake, Mr. Russell . . .

26 October 1834, departed Hobart for London, per Duckenfield (not, as earlier reported, on the Cleopatra)

"TRADE AND SHIPPING", The Hobart Town Courier (31 October 1834), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4182743 

The Duckenfield sailed on Sunday with a full cargo of colonial produce - passengers . . . Mr. Russel . . .

1835

10 December 1835, William arrived back in Hobart from London, with brother John

Report of the arrival at the port of Hobart Town, of the Barque Derwent, 10th December 1835; Tasmanian names index; NAME_INDEXES:1531858; CSO92/1/1 p. 77

https://stors.tas.gov.au/NI/1531858 

https://stors.tas.gov.au/CSO92-1-1$init=CSO92-1-1P80JPG (DIGITISED)

Cabin passengers . . . Mr. Wm. Russell . . . Steerage Passengers . . . Mr. J. Russell . . .

"SHIP NEWS", Colonial Times (15 December 1835), 4

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8648772 

Dec. 10. - Arrived the barque Derwent, Captain A. Riddell, from London the 9th August, with a general cargo. Passengers . . . Mr. W. Russell . . .

18 December 1835, juvenile fete

[Advertisement], Colonial Times (15 December 1835), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8648771

JUVENILE FETE. Freemasons Tavern.
MR. RUSSELL begs respectfully to announce that his first "Christmas Juvenile Fete," will be given on Friday evening next, when a great variety of amusing novelties will be introduced, the whole having been selected in London, expressly for this occasion.
Particulars of which will be soon in the hand bills. Dec. 15, 1835.

[News], The Hobart Town Courier (18 December 1835), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4178038 

Among our old friends who have returned to us by the recent arrivals, we have to announce that of Mr. Russell, to whose exertions the musical world of Hobart town is already so much indebted. During his stay in London, about 5 months, Mr. Russell chiefly occupied himself with collecting all the recent works of merit both musical and theatrical, and makes his debut, we observe, this evening at the Freemasons' Tavern, by the exhibition of a juvenile fete, which comes apropos at this school holyday season. For though our assizes are now on, and the town is crowded with jurors and witnesses from the country, there is any thing but pleasant recreation or enjoyment attendant upon them.

1836

22 March 1836, Deane's farewell concert

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (18 March 1836), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4177333 

A Grand Concert
Of Vocal and Instrumental Music, will take place at the Argyle Rooms, on Thursday, the 24th instant, further particulars of which will be given in a future advertisement.
J. P. DEANE has for 13 years past endeavoured to afford amusement to his Friends and the Public in general, but untoward circumstances will cause him to leave Van Diemen's Land for the Sister Colony, where he anticipates more patronage. The depressed state of this Settlement, and his large family compel him to seek a livelihood elsewhere, and it is absolute necessity alone that induces him to leave Hobart Town, where he has so many well wishers and friends.
J. P. Deane, therefore, begs to announce that the Concert will be his last application to the Public for patronage, and he trusts his "FAREWELL" will be attended by all his former friends, whose circumstances will allow their expending a trifling sum for a musical entertainment.
The Concert will be assisted by Messrs. Russell, Peck, Reichenberg, Leffler, and the whole of the musical talent in the town, who have kindly offered their assistance on this occasion.
Leader, Mr. Russell; Violin Principal Mr. Peck; Conductor Mr. J. P. Deane.
Tickets 5s. each Children's do. 3s.
To be had of Mrs. Davis, Musical Repository, Elizabeth-street, Mrs. Hedger, Confectioner, Elizabeth-street, and Mr. Peck, 30, Liverpool-street.

June 1836, visit to the interior

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (3 June 1836), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4176212 

MR. RUSSELL, AT the request of several families, begs to announce his intention of visiting the interior for the purpose of tuning Pianofortes. Applications by letter (post paid) at Mr. Petchey's, Davey street, before the 5th of June, will be attended to.
Terms - beyond 30 miles from Hobart town, two guineas.

15 and 20 June 1836, concerts, Launceston

[Advertisement], Launceston Advertiser (9 June 1836), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article84751113 

CONCERT Of Vocal and Instrumental Music, at the Cornwall Hotel, On WEDNESDAY next, June 15.
MRS. CLARKE and MR. RUSSELL beg respectfully to solicit the kind Patronage and support of the Ladies and Gentlemen of Launceston and its vicinity, to a Concert which they intend giving at the above Hotel, on Wednesday evening next; a programme of which will be published in bills. Tickets, 7s. each; to be had at the Cornwall Hotel. June 8, 1836.

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (16 June 1834), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article84751175 

MRS. CLARKE and MR. RUSSELL beg to inform the Public that their
SECOND AND LAST CONCERT will take place on MONDAY EVENING NEXT, June 20, at the Cornwall Hotel, particulars of which will be given in the bills of the day.
June 15, 1836.

ASSOCIATIONS: Anne Remens Clarke (vocalist)

1837

"ARGYLE ROOMS", Bent's News and Tasmanian Three-Penny Register (1 July 1837), 4

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232486001 

The whole of those extensive range of fine shops, and stone buildings, belonging to Mr. Lindsay, which have been shut up since the opening of the New Theatre, are at length about to be again occupied. Mr. Peck, and Mr. Russel, the talented Musicians, have taken the Argyle Rooms, to be converted into a Repository of Arts, or as a Theatre again. Mr. Probin is fitting up the corner shop as a Wine Vaults; and Mr. Osbourne has taken one of the other fine shops.

"DOMESTIC INTELLIGENCE", Colonial Times (1 August 1837), 7

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8650196 

By reference to an advertisement inserted in another part of this paper, it will be seen that Messrs. Peck and Russell intend opening the Argyle Rooms as a Picture Gallery, and exhibition of the Fine Arts. We understand that most of the gentry of Hobart Town, possessing valuable pictures, will allow them to be placed in the gallery for a certain period; by this means a real treat may be expected. We hope and trust that the exhibition will be well patronised, and that its introduction is but the prelude for annual exhibitions of a like description.

1838

6 March 1838, marriage, St. John's, New Town

Marriages solemnized in the parish of St. John's, Newtown, in the county of Buckinghamshire, in the year 1838; Tasmanian names index; NAME_INDEXES:824335; RGD36/1/3 no 4157

https://stors.tas.gov.au/NI/824335 

https://stors.tas.gov.au/RGD36-1-3$init=RGD36-1-3P149 (DIGITISED)

No. 82 / 4157 / William Wilkins Russell of this parish and
Sarah Ann Petchey of this Parish were married in this Church by License this [6 March 1838] by me T. Beagley Naylor . . . in the presence of S. Marshall, Harriet Byron [both] of Hobart Town

"MARRIED", The Hobart Town Courier (9 March 1838), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4166588 

On Tuesday morning last, by the Rev. T. B. Naylor, at New town church, W. W. Russell to Sarah Ann, only daughter of J. Petchey, esq. of Hobart town.

"ALMANACK, AND MEMORANDA FOR THE ENSUING WEEK", The Hobart Town Courier (9 March 1838), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4166588 

On Tuesday morning last, by the Rev. T. B. Naylor, at Newtown church, W. W. Russell to Sarah Ann, only daughter of J. Petchey, esq. of Hobart town.

1839

26 February 1839 (incorrectly advertised, not held), concert, Peck

[Advertisement], The Austral-Asiatic Review, Tasmanian and Australian Advertiser (26 February 1849), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232477018 

CONCERT. MR. PECK begs leave respectfully to announce . . . a
GRAND MISCELLANEOUS CONCERT Of Vocal and Instrumental Music, to take place on the Evening of
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY THE 26th 1839, In the Theatre, Campbell-street, Hobart Town . . . Mr. Russell will preside at the Piano Forte . . .

[Advertisement], The Austral-Asiatic Review, Tasmanian and Australian Advertiser (5 March 1839), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232477030 

G. H. Peck . . . thinks it due to his patrons and friends to afford a few explanations in reference to a statement which made its appearance in the Tasmanian of last week, although he feels convinced the Editor had unwittingly fallen into an error. No one can regret more than himself the disappointment which many of his friends experienced on the evening the Concert was to have taken place, and be must confess that had the non-performance of so rational an entertainment originated in the manner assigned in the Tasmanian, the public would have just cause of complaint. It was stated that dissensions among the performers prevented the execution of what had been held out in the advertisements in the public papers. G. H. Peck respectfully begs to refer the public to a short address published on the 27th of February, wherein he explains the true causes of the disappointment to his friends and himself, and it will be observed that it originated in circumstances over which he could have no possible control, and of which he was not himself aware until five o'clock of the afternoon, when it was too late to advertise the public of the unfortunate misunderstanding which had occurred between the proprietors of the Theatre, and which frustrated the performance for the evening.
The best understanding subsisted between all the performers. G. H. Peek is however taking active steps to get up a concert in some other eligible place, when he hopes to give satisfaction to those who on the late occasion so generously supported him.
The address to the public of the 27th Feb., has been widely circulated in the town.
Mar. 4.

"The Intended Concert", Colonial Times (5 March 1839), 4

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8749473

We consider ourselves called upon to notice the mode in which the Concert, announced to take place on Tuesday evening last, was prevented so taking place, and of offering a few remarks thereupon, on public grounds only. The printed statement, put forth by Mr. Peck, completely exonerates him from any share in the proceeding, and is to the following effect:- . . .

23 April 1839, birth of Mary Louisa Petchey Russell

"BIRTH", The Hobart Town Courier (3 May 1839), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4158646 

On Tuesday, the 23d ultimo, Mrs. Russell, No. 3, Davey-street, of a Daughter.

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier (31 May 1839), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4158361 

MUSIC. MR. RUSSELL begs to inform those Ladies and Gentlemen who have kindly patronized his exertions as a Teacher of MUSIC, that in consequence of being about to reside out of town, he will be compelled to decline following his late avocation.
He therefore begs to state that his friend, Mr. LEFFLER has just arrived from Sydney, and will be happy to take pupils for the Pianoforte and Singing immediately.
Terms and address may be had at the Hobart Town Stationery and Music Warehouse, Elizabeth-street. May 20.

ASSOCIATIONS: Edmund Leffler (musician, music teacher)

1840

31 August 1840, Angus McLeod's concert, Royal Victoria Theatre

[Advertisement], The Hobart Town Courier and Van Diemen's Land Gazette (21 August 1840), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8747994 

GRAND CONCERT. ROYAL VICTORIA THEATRE, CAMPBELL STREET.
MR. McLEOD, late of the 21st R.N.B.F., respectfully announces . . . that . . . he will, on Monday, the 31st August, give at the Theatre, a Grand Miscellaneous Concert of vocal and instrumental music . . .
Lieutenant-Colonel Elliott has kindly permitted the Band of the 51st K.O.L.L to attend for this evening.
The Orchestra will be complete in all its parts, Mr. Russell having politely supplied the only deficiency by volunteering his valuable services on the double bass.
PART 1ST. Overture. - "Rob Roy" (for the first time in the Colony) - Davy . . .
PART 2ND . . . Quartette [sic] - 2 violins, flute, viola, and bass, Messrs. Leffler, McLeod, Duly, Gordon, and Russell - Haydon . . .

"THE CONCERT", Tasmanian Weekly Dispatch (4 September 1840), 6

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233619660 

The performance in the Theatre on Monday night, was of a much more harmonious character than that in the Council on the same morning. We were glad to see so full a house, in support of that highly respectable old soldier, Mr. McLeod. Several amateurs came forward in aid of the vocal power, and acquitted themselves exceedingly well. It was a kind and first-class evidence of good feeling toward the individual whose benefit it was, and we assure these gentlemen, as also Mr. Russell, that their voluntary efforts were very properly appreciated . . .

ASSOCIATIONS: Angus McLeod (musician); George Frederick Duly (flute); Band of the 51st Regiment (military band); Abraham Duly (master of the band)

"BALL AND CONCERT", The Courier (6 November 1840), 4

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2957770 

A rich treat is anticipated by all the lovers of music at the forthcoming Ball and Concert at Campbell Town, such a one as is seldom to be enjoyed in this colony. We understand the music to be performed is selected from the works of the most eminent composers; the orchestra will be numerous and complete in all its parts, and the very best musicians in the colony have been engaged for the occasion. The principal instrumental performers are Mr. Kowarsik, Mr. Russell, Mr. A. McLeod, late bandmaster of the 21st regiment, Mr. J. Russell from Sydney [sic], Mr. Duly, Mr. McDonald, and a portion of the band of the 51st regiment, assisted by several amateurs . . .

ASSOCIATIONS: Alexander McDonald (musician)

[News], The Courier (4 December 1840), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2957574 

The weather upon the Regatta day proved equal to the most favourable anticipations . . . The intervals between the races were filled up by the fine band of the 51st playing delightful airs; nor were the tents altogether unheeded. Mr. Russell had erected a theatre of considerable size for the exhibition of the Fantoccini and Punch and Judy, together with the tricks of jugglers. Outside, as is the wont in such exhibitions, paraded several painted and metamorphosed figures of humanity, from the tinselled maid with the jingling tambourine to the motley clown, while a red Richard the Third shook his nose most awfully at the passing crowd. We found the theatre quite full of well-dressed people who had come to witness Punch and Judy "for auld lang syne," as well as in consequense of the Courier having directed more particular attention to that performance in opposition to the preposterous absurdity of propriety-mongers, who conceive that a puppet exhibition should "point a moral" . . .

1841

[Advertisement], The Courier (29 January 1841), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2957171 

"Concert at the Assembly Rooms, Campbelton", Launceston Advertiser (6 May 1841), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article84754069 

28 May 1841, death of Mary Louisa Petchey Russell, aged 2 years

1841, deaths in the district of Hobart; Tasmanian names index; NAME_INDEXES:1184512; RGD35/1/1 no 674

https://stors.tas.gov.au/NI/1184512 

https://stors.tas.gov.au/RGD35-1-1$init=RGD35-1-1P68 (DIGITISED)

674 / 28th May 1841 / Mary Louisa Petchey Russell / Two years / Water on the brain / [informant] John Russell (uncle) Davey St. . . .

"The Concert", The Austral-Asiatic Review, Tasmanian and Australian Advertiser (8 October 1841), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232479615 

"REGATTA", The Courier (12 November 1841), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2955293 

The busy note of preparation now sounds cheerily through the town, and all hands seem bent upon bracing up their resources for the anxiously looked for day of the Regatta. Gigs, yawls, cutters, luggers, schooners, and whale boats are now carefully overhauled, and their owners are actively engaged in adding mending, clinking pitching, paying, painting, splicing, and getting all snug and trim for the time of action. But the amusements of the day do not alone depend upon the exertions of those individuals who are connected with the nautical portion of the fete. A grand histrionic spectacle has been for some time in preparation by that indefatigable proprietor, Mr. Russell, who exhibited a very clever fantoccini last year . . .

[Advertisement], Colonial Times (22 November 1841), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8753114 

3 December 1841, Russell's public letter on his dismissal as organist of St. David's church, Hobart

[Advertisement], The Austral-Asiatic Review, Tasmanian and Australian Advertiser (3 December 1841), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232479777 

TO THE PUBLIC. HAVING received a notice stating that "at a meeting of the Chaplain and Churchwardens, held on the 1st of November, at St. David's Church, it was unanimously resolved that my services as Organist would not be required beyond the end of the month," and having been previously charged by the Rev. Mr. Bedford with taking no interest in the organ, singing, &c., beyond mere attending on the Sundays, I feel duty bound to offer some explanation, and therefore beg most respectfully to submit the following statement of facts, as connected with the above.

In January, 1838, I accepted the situation of Organist at St. David's Church, with a salary of £50 per annum, agreeing to tune the organ and instruct the singers. After going on for several months, the boys and girls who formed the choir found great difficulty in getting their pay, in consequence of which they nearly all left off attending. I then suggested to Mr. Bedford that a choir might be formed from the band of the 51st Regt.; permission was accordingly given by the commanding officer, and a certain number of men selected, who attended regularly, and assisted in the singing at church; however, at the expiration of the third quarter, their pay was not forthcoming, I then advanced them the sum due (£5) in order to keep on the singing. On the following quarter's pay becoming due, the same delay was experienced by the men, who, having been several times put off with excuses and promises by Mr. Bedford, stated their determination of not singing again until they were paid. As this determination was rather premature, it was deemed advisable to take them at their word, and dispense with their further assistance.

It was then arranged by myself and Mr. Bedford that some of the boys who used to sing at church should be engaged again - of course with an understanding that some remuneration should be promised. The boys alluded to returned accordingly, and assisted in the singing; but quarter after quarter passed away, and the boys (with the exception of one) could get nothing but promises of books, &c., from Mr. Bedford. I was therefore compelled to write to the Rev. Gentleman, stating that in consequence of the boys not being paid, it was impossible for me to have them under proper control, also that I was afraid they would leave at a moment's notice, and further, begging that he would allow me to call upon, and endeavour to collect a small sum from the congregation, to pay the boys with. In reply to which, Mr. Bedford stated that the boys were not engaged again with his approbation, and that he did not approve of my endeavouring to collect anything from the congregation, adding also, that my letter should be laid before the Churchwardens at their next meeting.

The boys, of course, in the meantime were getting very impatient. I then purchased a new silver watch of Mr. Heekscher, for which I paid £5, and made a present of the same to "W. Hamilton," a lad who had been extremely regular in his attendance for a very long period; another of the singers, "D. Panton," I gave £1, likewise half-a-dozen of wine to his parents; to another boy, "W. Erle" I gave instruction on the pianoforte; Mr. Duly's son also received instruction on the pianoforte, for which I refused to be paid, in consequence of his father having assisted in the choir; my brother assisted nearly the whole of the time I held the situation; our nurse-girl, too, was spared to assist in the singing, to the great inconvenience of my home, for eighteen months. These, and many other exertions have been made, both in the choir and in tuning the organ. And yet the Rev. Chaplain has stated, that I have taken no interest in the situation beyond the mere attending on the Sundays.

Bad as the singing has been, it has required considerable exertion on my part, to keep up any singing at all - and nothing but the circumstance of my having stood much in need of the salary, towards the support of myself and family, induced me to continue in a situation so connected with unpleasantness, as it was grievous to be obliged to sit and hear, which I have often done, both the men and boys in the choir express their inde though honest indignation, by sneering when the Rev. Mr. Bedford has been lecturing on that part of the Scripture which relates to the necessity of a strict adherence to the truth, the more grievous because I have known that such sneers were caused in consequence of the repeated promises of the Rev. Gentleman remaining unfulfilled.

I have been unwillingly compelled to make the foregoing statement - as were I to submit to so sudden a dismissal without giving an explanation, I should not be considered eligible to apply elsewhere for a similar appointment.

W. RUSSELL. Dec. 3, 1841.

ASSOCIATIONS: William Bedford (clergyman); George Frederick Duly (singer, piano pupil); David Panton (singer)

1843

[Advertisement], Colonial Times (14 February 1843), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8753331 

GRAND CONCERT! On FRIDAY NEXT, the 17th instant. Royal Victoria Theatre.
MR. & MRS. BUSHELLE . . . Instrumental performers: Mr. John Deane, leader; Mr. J. Howson, conductor; Mr. Russell, sen., Mr. H. Howson, Mr. Duly, sen., Mr. Duly, jun., Mr. Curtis, Mr. Russell, jun.;
the remainder of the Theatrical Orchestra augmented (by the kind permission of Colonel Elliott) by a large portion of the excellent band of the 51st regiment.

[Advertisement], The Courier (24 March 1843), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2952987 

MRS. W. RUSSELL begs respectfully to acquaint the public that, having taken those eligible and commodious premises belonging to and lately occupied by Mr. Petchey, situate No. 5, Davey-street, she will be prepared to receive a limited number of Young Ladies, under twelve years of age, as daily pupils or boarders, from the 1st of April next, for the purpose of giving instruction in the usual branches of female education.
Music, drawing, and dancing will be taught by approved masters.
The terms will be as moderate as possible, and may be known on application to Mrs. Russell.
Hobart Town, March 24.

[Advertisement], The Courier (1 September 1843), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2952208 

LADIES' SCHOOL. - Mrs. W. RUSSELL begs to acquaint those of her friends who may feel desirous of placing their children under her tuition, that she has REMOVED from Davey-street to No. 16, Macquarie-street. August 25.

1844

[Advertisement], Colonial Times (5 March 1844), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8754638 

[Advertisement], The Austral-Asiatic Review, Tasmanian and Australian Advertiser (22 March 1844), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232482469 

[News], The Austral-Asiatic Review, Tasmanian and Australian Advertiser (5 April 1844), 4

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232482520 

[Advertisement], Colonial Times (30 April 1844), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8754820 

[Advertisement], The Austral-Asiatic Review, Tasmanian and Australian Advertiser (3 May 1844), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232482621 

[News], The Cornwall Chronicle (29 June 1844), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article66021997 

[Advertisement], The Courier (16 August 1844), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2950690 

EDUCATION. - Music Hall, Collins-street. Hobart Town.- Mrs. RUSSELL begs to inform her friends and the public, that she continues to receive young ladies from six to fourteen years of age as pupils, to whom she offers superior advantages, having made education, character, and disposition her particular study. Knowledge is presented in its simplest form, and every exertion is made to render its acquirement a source of pleasure. The subjects taught, in addition to the usual and most essential branches of female education, are - the Rudiments of the French Language, Dancing, and Music. The study and practue of the last mentioned accomplishment being under the daily superintendence of Mr. Russell.
TERMS: Boarders . . . £10 per annum; Day do . . . 20 do; Day pupils . . . [pound] 12 12s do. N.B. A proportionate sum deducted from the above charges when the teaching of Music may not be required.

"LOCAL", The Courier (8 October 1844), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2950449

"LOCAL", The Courier (22 October 1844), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2950383 

"LOCAL", The Courier (29 October 1844), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2950345 

[Advertisement], The Tasmanian and Austral-Asiatic Review (21 November 1844), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233611641 

1845

[Advertisement], The Courier (17 May 1845), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2948554 

IN the matter of the Insolvency of William Russell, of Hobart Town, in Van Diemen's Land, Professor of Music. -
Notice is hereby given, that Edward Macdowell, Esquire, Commissioner of Insolvent Estates for Hobart Town, has appointed Thursday, the 29th day of May next, for the first general meeting of the creditors of the above-named insolvent, for the proof of debts, to be holden at the Court of Requests' Room, in the Court House, Hobart Town.
And notice is hereby further given, that the said commissioner has also appointed the same time and place for the hearing of the matters of the above named insolvent's application for an order of discharge. - Dated this 14th day of May, 1845.
WILLIAM RUSSELL, Insolvent in person.

1846

[Advertisement], The Courier (19 December 1846), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2944164 

W. RUSSELL. Organist of New Town Church, IN removing from the Music Hall, Collins-street, to the Risdon Road, New Town, begs to state that he will continue to attend pianoforte pupils in Hobart Town as heretofore; also to tune pianofortes; but declines the providing of music for public or private quadrille parties. Mr. Russell, wishing to settle his tradesmen's accounts prior to leaving town, informs those gentlemen who are indebted to him for ball tickets, or for musical instruction, and repeatedly applied to on the subject, that their accounts must now be settled, or they will be summoned to the Court forthwith; but, on the other hand, should any unforeseen misfortunes have happened them subsequent to their receiving such ball tickets, or musical instruction for their families, he will feel much pleasure in giving them an entire acquittance, providing they will have the becoming pride to call and state the fact, as the late proprietor of the Music Hall will never annoy any person honestly contending with adverse circumstances. Dec. 19.

1849

G. T. W. Boyes's diary, 30 September 1848 to 25 November 1849; University of Tasmania Library Special and Rare Materials Collection

https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/37291075 

https://eprints.utas.edu.au/9781 (DIGITISED)

[22 January 1849] Mr. Russell and I spoke to him about giving Henry lessons. He is to commence tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock.

[23 January 1849] Henry after breakfasting with me and reading his Euclid went to take his first lesson upon the piano forte with Mr. Russell . . .

[25 January 1849] . . . I heard Henry read and practice his Gamutt before he went to Mr. Russell's . . .

[7 June 1849] . . . Mr. Russell came in the evening and he and Woolrabe played for an hour or two till 11 1/2.

ASSOCIATIONS: George Boyes (public servant, amateur musician, diarist); Henry Boyes (1833-1909, music pupil); Woolrabe (public servant, amateur musician)

1851

1852

"A MUSICAL AND ARTISTICAL ENTERTAINMENT", The Courier (9 October 1852), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2958362 

A MUSICAL AND ARTISTICAL ENTERTAINMENT is announced for Wednesday evening nest, (not Monday evening as erroneously advertised), at the Hall of the School of Arts, under the scenical and vocal, dioramical, instrumental, and logical superintendence and management of Messrs. Russell and Prout Hill, which promises to afford considerable amusement to the laughter-loving people of this "fayre and promyseying cyttie," a petite entertainment entitled "Pro and Con," or the Gold Digger's Dream, and of which the uninitiated are as yet unable to understand the "why and the wherefore," is announced; the whole to be accompanied by a variety of instrumental music, and enriched by some Dioramic Views of Victoria, painted by the painter, from sketches taken upon the identical spots where the "pros and cons" have originated.

1857

"THEATRE ROYAL", The Tasmanian Daily News (12 December 1857), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article201341208 

1866

"Opera di Camera", Tasmanian Morning Herald (16 January 1866), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article169042033 

Mr. Russell's Opera di Camera was produced last night at Del Sarte's Rooms, with great success, before a crowded and fashionable audience. The whole performance reflects great credit on Mr. Russell and his talented troupe of amateur artistes. Both the music and singing were excellent. The Zillah of the second and third parts - the prima donna of the night - sang with great sweetness and accuracy, and was loudly applauded and encored more than once. Her duet with Carlos in the third part, was very charmingly and effectively rendered, and produced a merited encore. Stephano and Carlos spoke and sang with vigor and taste. Tambo, the black cook, was enacted with extraordinary vivacity, and brought down the house in roars of laughter. The curtain fell at the concluding chorus - which was well performed by the Company, amid a perfect shower of bouquets intended, we believe, for Zillah, who was honored with a call before the curtain. We must not omit to mention with praise the admirable instrumentation of the Orchestra. We should be glad to see a second edition of the "Opera di Camera."

"INVALID ASYLUM", The Mercury (30 January 1866), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8837375 

Last evening the inmates were treated to an evening's amusement by Mr. Russell and the ladies and gentlemen who took part in the Chamber Opera, at Del Sarte's Rooms, the opera of Zillah being repeated with eminent success. There was a large number of visitors, who with the elderly inmates of the establishment, seemed greatly to enjoy the entertainment.

"OPERA DE CAMERA", Tasmanian Morning Herald (8 June 1866), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article169045454 

The first of a series of six of these popular performances was given on Wednesday evening, at Del Sartes' Rooms, by Mr. Russell and a Company of Native Musical Amateurs. There was a very excellent "House," and "Maritana," the opera selected for the first night of the "Season," was performed with signal success, and to the evident satiifaction of a highly gratified audience. We refrain from any mention of names on this occasion, but we may say that Maritana, Don Caesar, and Lazarillo, deserves special mention for the excellence of their vocalistion. The beautiful aria, "Alas those Chimes" was very sweetly and effectively rendered. And the duet "Sainted Mother" was a very charming performance indeed. The Choruses were very well given by "the entire strength of the Company," and the orchestral accompaniment was in itself a very great musical treat. On the whole we may fairly congratulate Mr. Russell on the success of his amiable endeavour to develop the native vocal and histrionic talent of "the sweet south." The night's performance was an improvement in every respect on its predecessors, and constituted as agreeable and innocent an evening's recreation could well be devised by the most inventive entrepreneur. The price of admission places these pretty performances within the reach of everybody and they will soon, no doubt, become one of the most popular institutions of the capital. "Puss in Boots", "Zillah" a new opera, and "Maritana" again constitute the bill of the season, which will extend over the next six weeks.

"AMUSEMENTS", The Mercury (25 June 1866), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8840072 

. . . Mr. Russell, a well-known musician here, has been giving a number of drawing-room entertainments assisted by amateurs in the style of the Opera di Camera. Wallace's opera of "Maritana" has been presented, as also the operetta "Zillah," and both pieces were very successfully and creditably rendered . . .

1867

"DEATHS", The Mercury (27 November 1867), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8849202 

RUSSELL. - On the 25th November, at Roseville, New Town, Frederick Manners, fifth son of William Russell, aged 14 years.

1873

"CITY COUNCIL", The Mercury (6 May 1873), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8923654 

. . . A letter was read from Mr. William Russell, suggesting that the organ recitals might be carried on during the winter if a little vocal and instrumental music were introduced, and wishing to know the terms upon which he could have the Town Hall for six nights for this purpose. The letter was referred to the Town Hall Committee. . .

"THE ORGAN RECITAL", The Mercury (8 April 1873), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8918358 

There was a falling off in the attendance at the organ recital at the Town Hall last night, probably because of the objections many entertain to attend public amusements at this season. Mr. William Russell was the organist, and he performed a selection of music from the works of Donizetti, Offenbach, Bellini, Paer, Boildeau, Coote, Wyman, Latour, and Brugier. The pedal playing was throughout somewhat deficient, and the organist would do well to acquire a more intimate knowledge of the fine instrument at his disposal to do both it and himself justice,

1874

"MARRIAGE", The Mercury (8 April 1874), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8929206 

RUSSELL - SMITH. - On the 22nd March, by special license, at "Clarmont," Upper Huon, the residence of the bride's father, by the Rev. R. Dear, John, second son of William Russell, professor of music, Hobart Town, to Tryphena Albina, second daughter of Mr. John Smith.

[News], Illustrated London News (5 December 1874), 18

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001578/18741205/142/0018 (PAYWALL)

As mentioned last week, the season of promenade concerts at Covent-garden Theatre terminated on Saturday, and a supplemental performance was given on Monday for the benefit of Mr. John Russell, the active managing director, whose superintendence of the business details has been a valuable feature in the arrangements of Messrs. Gatti.

1877

"OPERATIC PERFORMANCE", The Mercury (30 June 1877), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8954209 

Mr. Russell announces that the operetta "Zillah; or, the Gipsy Brigands of Astorga" will shortly be produced at the Theatre Royal. Some years ago it was performed at Del Sarte's Rooms (now the Oddfellows' Hall), and it was in this operetta that the Misses Sherwin and Mr. Pringle (or Mr. Templeton, the nom de theatre he has adopted) made their first public appearance. Mr. Pringle is a member of Lyster's English Opera Company, his musical career to the other colonies having been very successful.

1878

"MISS RUSSELL'S MUSIC CLASSES", The Mercury (19 December 1878), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8971643 

A private party was held on Tuesday evening at Webb's Concert Room, when several of the pupils of this lady had the power of giving specimens of their musical ability in the presence of Mrs. Weld and family, and of a large number of their friends. A number of pieces were played upon the pianoforte with remarkably good time and expression; and a young and promising pupil of Mr. W. Russell's sang Wallace's "Scenes that are brightest" in a very pleasing manner. Those present were evidently much pleased with the result of the careful tuition, and warmly congratulated Mr. and Miss Russell and their pupils on the excellence achieved.

1879

"COURT OF REQUESTS, LAUNCESTON. TUESDAY, JUNE 3RD, 1879 . . . MARY JOSEPHINE FRANCES RIORDAN V. EMMA RUSSELL", The Tasmanian (7 June 1879), 12

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article198900224 

In this case plaintiff recently a teacher in the young ladies school kept by the defendant, sued the latter for 40l 17s, as and for wages and damages alleged to be due to plaintiff.
Plea not indebted, except as to 7l 5s, paid into Court by defendant.
Mr. Adye Douglus appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. Moriarty for defendant.
Prior to opening the cases all witnesses were required to leave the Court. Mr. Douglas stated the case, by which it appeared that Miss Russell having inserted an advertisement in the Victorian papers, received a letter from plaintiff, and after some correspondence engaged the latter at a salary of 60l per annum for six months certain, the passage and expenses of the plaintiff to be paid to and tro [sic] provided the latter retained the appointment for the period stated. Miss Riorden arrived on the 7th March, and without any cause whatever was dismissed on the 1st April by defendant, who declined to pay anything further in the shape of salary and expenses than 7l 5s paid into Court. In consequence this present action had been instituted.
Mary Josephine Frances Riorden deposed to being engaged by defendant as governess, in which capacity she had had some fifteen years experience; witness was to teach Latin, Algebra, and English, but not music or singing; her salary was to be at the rate £60 per annum for the first six months, and £80 to £100 per annum thereafter; witness had been assured that she should find an increasing school and she found one decreasing; witness did the work of Miss Russell, her sister, and her own work in the school at times; she entered on her duties on the 1st March, and continued in the discharge of them to the 1st April . . .
Emma Russell deposed - Was defendant in this suit, and principal of the School; had advertised for a superior governess in Melbourne . . .
Fanny Russell deposed - Was sister of defendant, and teacher at the school; heard plaintiff make improper remarks to children; considered her conduct unbecoming a lady . . .
After His Honor had briefly summed up, the jury retired, and after a short absence, returned into Court with a verdict for plaintiff of £19 10s with the amount paid into Court.

1880

1883

"A SOUVENIR OF THE LATE MR. J. W. GRAVES", The Mercury (26 March 1883), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9020405 

"THE HOBART AMATEUR OPERA COMPANY", Launceston Examiner (31 July 1883), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article38287455 

"Zillah," an operetta from the pen of Mr. Russell, of Hobart, was produced by the Hobart Amateur Opera Company last night at the Mechanics' Institute, and attracted a moderately large and highly appreciative audience. The plot of "Zillah," which is as clear as that of most operas, is as follows: - A band of gipsy brigands plunder the castle of a nobleman in Spain, and his infant daughter is seized and carried off by Cortez, the captain of the brigands, and is called by them Zillah. A period of some years is supposed to elapse between Acts I and II, and in the second act Zillah is found sleeping in a forest, in which is the gipsy's camp, by Count di Castro, who, while out hunting with his followers, loses his way and wanders towards the gipsy encampment. He becomes enamoured of Zillah, who warns him of his danger in being there, but he resolves to join the band, which he does, under the name of Carlos. In the third act the carriage of Donna Inez breaks down going through the forest, she comes to the camp for assistance, and finds in Carlos her brother, who tells her of his romantic attachment for Zillah. Stephano, who has succeeded Cortez as captain of the band, relates to the Count and Donna Inez the particulars of Zillah's birth and parentage, and the operetta, of course, ends happily, the Count prevailing upon Stephano and his band to give up their lawless life, and everybody is supposed to live happily ever after. The music of the operetta does not display any great originality, but it is melodious and pleasing. The title role was taken by Miss A. P. Oundy, an amateur of great promise, who possesses a very clear and sympathetic voice. "A Gipsy maid am I" was fairly well sung, but in "I wandered in forest glen," and "Gladly chant the summer birds" she was much more successful, obtaining encores for both, and for the latter, which is the prettiest solo in the operetta, a double encore. Miss Cundy also obtained an encore for Haydn's "My mother bids me bind my hair." In the duets, "In weal or woo" and "The Gipsy Countess," with the Count di Castra, she was again very successful, an encore being demanded in each case. Miss Cundy, who has certainly a future before her as an amateur, also played the part exceedingly well, and dressed in good taste. The part of the Count di Castro was taken by Mr. W. Humphries, who has a good stage presence, and a pleasing tenor voice. Mr. Charles Grahame took the part of Juan very fairly, but was suffering from a slight hoarseness. Miss J. Cundy, who is only 13 years old, took the part of Jacinta, and deserves great praise for her acting; she has a clear, strong, contralto voice, and obtained an encore in a duet with Donna Inez. The rest of the characters were well sustained by Mrs. Hill, as Lady Inez; Mr. S. Ellis, as Pedro and Perez; Mr. Doyle, as Roderick ; and Mr. C. Dawson, as Sambo, who, as the [REDACTED] servant to the camp, was very good. The mounting of the piece reflects great credit on Mr. Bishop-Osborne, the stage looking exceedingly tasty. The choruses were well sung, several of them being encored, and considering that the company only arrived from Hobart yesterday afternoon, and that they were rehearsing until six o'clock, they deserve great praise for the manner in which the opening night went off. The orchestra, which was conducted by Mr. Russell, took its part without a hitch throughout the piece. "Zillah" will be repeated to night.

1884

"THE REMENYI CONCERT. TO THE EDITOR", Tasmanian News (20 December 1884), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article163518383 

1885

[Advertisement], Tasmanian News (31 January 1885), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article163519474 

MISS and MISS EMMA RUSSELL will resume their Music Lessons on Monday, 2nd Feb. Buckingham House, 21, Davey street.

"Miss Russell's School of Music", Tasmanian News (24 November 1885), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article162974871 

"PROPOSED FEDERAL MUSICAL FESTIVAL. HOBART, Dec. 18", Launceston Examiner (19 December 1885), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article38308683 

A meeting convened by the Mayor to discuss the advisableness of getting up a musical festival during the session here of the forthcoming Federal Council was held to-night, when ten persons were present . . . Mr. Trevor Russell said he had some months ago written to Herr Kowalski to bring over two vocalists with him, and to start some kind of festival here. Herr Kowalski had replied expressing his willingness to come over in or about January. Herr Schott said that extraneous aid would have to be employed. The Town Hall here was limited in its holding capacity, and the question arose - "Would it pay?" . . .

1887

"THE LEVEE", The Mercury (22 June 1887), 3

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9135315 

[News], The Tasmanian (6 August 1887), 18

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article199549059 

In consequence of Miss Sly's refusal to accept half the proceeds of Miss Amy Sherwin's late charity concert, it has been decided to hand over the sum in question (£14) to Mr. W. Russell, the well-known musician. To this gentleman, I understand, is largely due the credit of having rescued our "Nightingale" from her home in the Huon forests.

"THE ORGAN RECITALS. TO THE EDITOR", The Argus (2 December 1887), 11

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article7936721 

1888

"LETTERS TO THE EDITOR . . . CLASSICAL MUSIC", The Mercury (5 November 1888), 4

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9200507 

SIR, - There is an amusing little anecdote in last Saturday's Mail of a schoolmaster mistaking the playing of Mendelssohn's Rondo Capriccioso by our favourite and most talented performer for the thrumming of leg music by some perpetrator of outrages on musical ears. This anecdote is a small thing in itself, but it illustrates a big truth. We see it everywhere. It is painfully apparent at the Centennial Exhibition where people from all parts of Australia - especially, of course, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney - are seen at the concerts conducted by Mr. Cowen. Watch the inane expression of the faces; good heavens, it is awful! At the organ recitals and classical concerts in Melbourne and Sydney we see it, in fact, everywhere where classical music is, as a matter of course, a Babel of tongues, mostly foreign. Classical music can no more be understood and appreciated by the mobile vulgus of the musical world without education in music than the strange literary music of Carlyle can be comprehended by the oi polloi of the literary and thinking world without thought and culture. All this shows the necessity of the education, the drawing forth and strengthening of the beautiful and grand within us.
Yours, etc., TREVOR RUSSELL. Hobart October 29.

1892

3 October 1892, death, Richmond, TAS

Deaths in the district of Richmond, 1892, fourth quarter

https://stors.tas.gov.au/NI/1240810 

https://stors.tas.gov.au/RGD35-1-61$init=RGD35-1-61P156 (DIGITISED)

[No] 196 / Octr. 3. 1892 / William Russell / M / [age] 94 / musician / senile decay / [registered] Octr. 7. 1892 / [registered] 619

"DEATH OF AN OLD MUSICIAN", The Mercury (4 October 1892), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13277804 

Last evening William Russell, who for many years had been a resident in Tasmania, passed peacefully away. He came out to the colony first in the Medway, of which vessel Captain Bothwick White was commander, and some yours after went home again in the Duckingfield, Captain Riddle, and returned again to the colony in the Derwent, of which vessel Captain Riddle was also commander. Old residents in the colony will know how long since it was these vessels ploughed the waters.

The deceased, as a professor of music, was of some renown here. He was organist of the Cathedral for some time, and then for over 40 years was organist of St. John's Church, New Town, and on the disestablishment of the Anglican Church, was State pensioned by the Government. He was well known as a composer, and of his musical successes his opera of Zillah was, perhaps, the best known locally. He never took any active part in politics, but like many other residents in Tasmania, was a quiet and earnest observer of public events, and gave his influence for what it was worth, always in the cause of advancement and good rule. He was also a valued contributor to the English Press. Blessed with a splendid constitution, and never having a day's illness, he passed quietly away last night ih his 94th year, placidly fading away from corporeal being.

"DEATHS", The Mercury (5 October 1892), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13301213

RUSSELL. - On October 3, William Russell, in his 94th year. The funeral will move from his son's residence, 150, Macquarie street, on Thursday, at 11.30 a.m.

"OBITUARY", Tasmanian News (5 October 1892), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article185212088 

Another old colonist passed away on Monday evening in the 94th year of his age, in the person of Mr. William Russell, who for at least half a century was known in Hobart as a professor of music. Mr. Russel came to the colony in the early days in the ship Medway, commanded by Captain Borthwick Whyte. For over forty years the deceased officiated as organist of St. John's Church, New Town, and on his retirement from this post he was pensioned by the Government. He was well known as a composer, and of his musical successes his Opera of "Zillah," produced on the Hobart stage, was perhaps the best known locally. He never took any active part in politics, but he frequently contributed papers to the English Press. The deceased gentleman leaves a grown up family, of which Mr. Trevor Russell, of Macquarie street, is one.

"BURIAL", The Mercury (7 October 1892), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13298237

Yesterday the mortal remains of William Russell, a "long-lived old English oak," of historic family, were laid to rest in Cornelian Bay Cemetery, and the death has removed another of the landmarks of the early colonising days of Tasmania.

[News], Zeehan and Dundas Herald (11 October 1892), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article79983414 

A very old resident of Hobart and Tasmania died last week at the ripe age of 93 years. Mr. William Russell was a professor of mnsic of some note in Southern musical circles, for over 40 years was organist at St. John's Church, New Town, but was best known as the composer of the successful opera "Zillah". Mr. Russell had never had a day's illness.

After 1892

"THE DEPARTURE OF THE OROYA FROM SYDNEY",

A correspondent sends the following: ". . . In the outgoing list for London we notice the name of a Tasmanian lady, Miss Emma Russell, and wish her God speed in the old country . . ."

"MADAME AMY SHERWIN. AN AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. ("M.A.P."), Launceston Examiner (31 March 1899), 7

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article39799390 

It was not until after my tenth year that I had any lessons, except in the way of home teaching. Then a great treat came into my life in the person of Mr. Russell, a dear old music teacher, who took a great interest in my doings. I was the youngest of the girls, and he quite turned my little head when he told me I would outshine the others. In order to take these lessons I had to get up at four in the morning and ride or drive along a difficult bush track for eight miles. Once, when I fancied 1 had overslept myself, my sister found me in tears, but, on being reassured that there was yet. time to secure the coveted lesson, my delight was un bounded.

"MARRIAGES", The Mercury (31 March 1900), 5

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12787737 

RUSSELL - LUCAS. - On Wednesday, March 24, 1875, at Fingal, by the Rev. J. Rickards, Geo. Byworth, third son of the late W. Russell, Professor of Music, to Ermina S. S., third daughter of the late T. J. Lucas. Both of Hobart.

"Deaths", The Mercury (26 July 1900), 1

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12805105 

RUSSELL.- On July 24, at "Sumner," Mount Stuart-road, Sarah Ann, widow of the late William Russell, Professor of Music.

"DEATHS", The Sydney Morning Herald (19 January 1923), 8

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16048553 

RUSSELL. - January 17, 1923, at Artarmon, Henry Percival Trevor Russell, late of Balmain, son of the late William Russell, Professor of Music, London, beloved brother of Rachel, Emma, and Fanny Russell, aged 60 years.

"TASMANIAN SINGER. Madame Amy Sherwin. Straightened Circumstances", The Mercury (18 May 1934), 9

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article24934140 

"TASMANIAN SINGER. Madame Amy Sherwin. Death in London", The Mercury (23 September 1935), 7

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article30106909 

Madame Amy Sherwin, aged 80 years, the former world-famous singer, who was known as "The Tasmanian Nightingale," died in London on Saturday. She was born at Forest Home, Huonville, now the property of Mr. W. H. Calvert, M.L.C. She made her first appearance on a stage in Hobart in what was then Delsarte's Rooms, afterwards the Tasmanian Hall, and now the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania, at the corner of Davey and Harrington Streets. The work in which she appeared was a small operetta, "Zillah," and her promise then as a girl in her 'teens heralded a career that was to embrace the world. The operetta was conducted and produced by W. Russell . . .

Documentation (John Russell - England, from 1849)

1849, marriage solemnized at the Parish Church in the Parish of St. Mary, Lambeth, in the county of Surry; register, 1846-49, page 207; London Metropolitan Archives

https://www.ancestry.com.au/imageviewer/collections/1623/images/31280_195097-00517 (PAYWALL)

No. 1414 / Thirtieth of October 1849 / John Wilkins Russell / . . . of full age / Bachelor / Musician / 6 Moore Place / [son of] Michael Russell (dec.) / Gent.
Frances Mary Huddart / . . . of full age / Spinster / - / St. Peter Walworth / [daughter of] John Huddart (dec.) / Clerk in the Post Office . . .

England census, 30 March 1851, St. George Hanover Square, Middlesex; UK National Archives, HO 107 / 1478

https://www.ancestry.com.au/imageviewer/collections/8860/images/MDXHO107_1478_1479-0009 (PAYWALL)

20 Warwick St / John Russell / Head / Mar. / 25 / Professor of Music / [born] Kennington
Fanny [Russell] / Wife / Mar. / 24 / - / [born] Camberwell
Frances E. [Russell] / Daur. / 16 months / [born] Ryde Isle of Wight
Charlotte W. Huddart / Mother in law / Widow / 48 / Teacher of Pianoforte / [born] Surrey Kew

England census, 7 April 1861, St. George Hanover Square, Middlesex; UK National Archives, HO 107 / 1478

https://www.ancestry.com.au/imageviewer/collections/8767/images/SRYRG9_356_359-0406 (PAYWALL)

8 Parade Harleyford Rd / John Russell / Head / 34 / Professor of Music / [born] Surrey Kennington
fanny [Russell] / Wife / Mar. / 33 / - / [Surrey] Camberwell
Frances / 10 / John H. / 8 // William H. / 4 //
Charlotte Huddart / M. in Law / 55 . . .

[Advertisement], Morning Post (13 August 1867), 1

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000174/18670813/002/0001 (PAYWALL)

COVENT-GARDEN THEATRE. COVENT-GARDEN CONCERTS.
Under the Sole Direction of Mr. JOHN RUSSELL . . . THURSDAY EVENING, August 15, 1867 . . . Conductor, Signor Bottesini.
Mr. Russell has also the pleasure to announce that to give eclat to these Concerts, he has engaged, solely for the dance music, the services of the renowned Johann Strauss, from Vienna . . .

"COVENT GARDEN CONCERTS", Globe (17 August 1867), 3

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001652/18670817/037/0003 (PAYWALL)

Covent Garden Theatre re-opened on Thursday evening for the commencement of a series of orchestral concerts, under the direction of Mr. John Russell. Our musical readers are aware that these concerts are similar in plan and form those which have been so successfully given for several seasons by the late Alfred Mellon; with this difference, that inasmuch as Mr. Mellon’s concerts were an advance on the original concerts of M. Jullien, so the concerts of Mr. Russell are an advance on those Mr. Mellon. In so far we may judge from their commencement on Thursday these new concerts are of a higher order than promenade concerts have ever been before. The orchestra is of greater magnitude, and consists more exclusively of performers of a high class; and the same thing may be said of the solo performers, both instrumental and vocal. The concerts are to be under the general direction of Signor Bottesini, who, independently his marvellous powers on the contrabasso, is well known throughout the Continent as one of the meet accomplished chefs d'orchestre in Europe; while the dance-music is entrusted the care of the renowned Johann Strauss of Vienna . . . The theatre was superbly fitted up, and every arrangement carried out with complete success. The house was crowded to the doors; the applause was enthusiastic; and the whole concert was evidently the commencement of most brilliant season.

[News], Birmingham Daily Post (18 January 1869), 8

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000033/18690118/031/0008 (PAYWALL)

Mr. John Russell, a theatrical manager and commission agent, came up in the London Court of Bankruptcy on Friday. His debts are put down at the large amount of £34,390, of which £18,907 is due to unsecured creditors. The bankrupt had been lessee of Covent Garden Theatre during an unsuccessful season of English opera, and there are upwards of 100 ernployés of this theatre amongst the creditors, many of them for as small a sum as 6s. Further accounts were ordered.

"THEATRE ROYAL - THE GRAND DUCHESS OF GEROLSTEIN", Dublin Evening Mail [Ireland] (10 May 1869), 3

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000433/18690510/030/0003 (PAYWALL)

This evening Offenbach's sparkling opera comique, The Grand Duchess of Gerolstein, will be represented at the Theatre Royal for the first time in Dublin. With but two exceptions the performers are the same as the original cast at Covent Garden in 1867. The Grand Duchess was played Mr. Russell's company in London with very great success and we anticipate for them an equally good reception here. The company now includes Messrs. Wilford Morgan (tenor), Aynsly Cooke, J. D. Stoyle, W. H. Norton, W. Payne, Mr, Odell, Mademoiselle Albertazzi and Miss Julia Mathews (prima donna). This lady is the original English representative of the Grand Duchess, and has but recently returned from Australia and New Zealand . . . The whole is under the directorship of Mr. John Russell, late manager of the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, and Olympic, London. The English press was unanimous in its praise of this company . . .

"DEATH OF MISS FANNY HUDDART", The Era (4 July 1880),

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000053/18800704/022/0006 (PAYWALL)

We have most regretfully to announce the death of this highly-esteemed vocalist, who expired on Monday last, the 28th of June. The deceased, who was the niece of the celebrated Mrs. Warner, had been for some years the much-beloved wife of Mr. John Russell, of Covent-garden Theatre. Miss Fanny Huddart, to retain the name by which her professional distinction was secured, had a remarkably wide range of talents. During her industrious career she had played all the contralto parts in Italian opera, even to Malcolm, in Donna del Lago; Arsace, in Semiramide; and also Acucena, with Madame Adelina Patti. Miss Fanny Huddart was the original Azucena, when the English version of Il Trovatore was produced at Drury-lane Theatre, under the direction of Messrs. James Tully and Frederick Kingsbury. For many years past she had played similar parts in English opera, including Vincent Wallace's last opera The Amber Witch at Her Majesty's Theatre; sang the contralto parts in the whole of Handel's and Mendelssohn's oratorios at the Sacred Harmonic Society's Concerts, and gave besides the earliest popularity to such songs as Hullah's "Three Fishers" and "The Storm." Miss Fanny Huddart has impersonated all the leading female parts in the Shakespearian drama, both juvenile and otherwise, and has within the last three years played Lady Macbeth and Hecate at Drury-lane Theatre on the same night of representation. Many comedy parts have also been among her successful embodiments, notably Mrs. Smylie, in Nine Points of the Law, and at the Edinburgh Theatre she performed even the dumb girl Fenella, in Masaniello, after Mdlle. Monti, daughter of the celebrated Italian sculptor, had played the part at Her Majesty's. While her comprehensive talents secured for her the general admiration of the public her exemplary private life won for her the regard of a large circle of friends, and as a faithful wife and best of mothers her memory will be long affectionately cherished by those left to mourn her loss.

England census, 1881, St. Mary's, Battersea; RG 11 / 654

https://www.ancestry.com.au/imageviewer/collections/7572/images/LNDRG11_644_647-0455 (PAYWALL)

21 [Middleton Rd.] / John Russell / Head / Widower / 54 / Late Treasurer, Royal Italian Opera / [born] London Kennington
Harold [Russell] / Son / 23 / Mar. / Vocalist . . .

Bibliography and resources

Jones 2007

Maree-Rose Jones, "Musical activities at the Royal Victoria Theatre, Hobart, Van Diemen's Land", Tasmanian Historical Research Association papers and proceedings 54/3 (December 2007), 144-53

https://search.informit.org/doi/10.3316/INFORMIT.574239150440218 (PAYWALL)

Read 2008

Colleen Read, "William Wilkins Russell, one of Hobart's early musicians", Tasmanian ancestry (Tasmanian Family History Society Inc.) 28/4 (March 2008), 242

https://www.tasfhs.org/downloads/Volume28Number4_2008.pdf (DIGITISED)

Jones 2009

Maree-Rose Jones, Musical activities at the Royal Victoria Theatre, Van Diemen's Land: a study of cultural practice 1827-1857 (Ph.D thesis, University of Sydney, 2009)

https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/38829414 

https://sydney.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/61USYD_INST/1c0ug48/alma991000939219705106 

Skinner 2011

Graeme Skinner, Toward a general history of Australian musical composition: first national music, 1788-c. 1860 (Ph.D thesis, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, University of Sydney, 2011),

http://hdl.handle.net/2123/7264 (DIGITISED)

Other references:

"ST. JOHN'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH", The Mercury (3 May 1889), 2

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9211448 

There was a good attendance last night at St. John's Presbyterian Church to hear the opening recital of sacred music on the organ recently erected. The organ is not by any means a new one, having been imported into this colony as far back as 1842, and erected in St. John's Church, New Town, where it has done duty until passing into the hands of its present owners. It was built by Messrs. Gray and Davidson, of London, and its total cost, when landed in Tasmania was £300; a further sum of £30 having been expended in putting in an additional stop. It now contains the following stops, open diapason, stop diapason, claribel, dulciana, flute, principal, fifteenth, mixture, pedal bourbon [sic, bourdon] and keys to pedals, and there are also two position pedals . . .

? "Russell, William", in Philip H. Highfill, Kalman A. Burnim, Edward A. Langhans, A biographical dictionary of actors, actresses, musicians, dancers, managers, and Other Stage Personnel in London, 1660-1800, volume 13 (Carbondale, Southern Illinois University Press, 1991), 143-44

https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015021475325&view=1up&seq=153 (DIGITISED)

"Wilkins, John", in Highfill et al. A biographical dictionary of actors . . . volume 16 (Carbondale, Southern Illinois University Press, 1993), 234

https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015026964307&view=1up&seq=103 (DIGITISED)

Wilkins John . . . Perhaps he was the Mr. Wilkins, identified as a member of the orchestra at the Italian opera house in London, who was left a violin by Domenico Dragonetti in 1846.

ASSOCIATIONS: Domenico Dragonetti (musician); the relevant clause of his will reads:

32 - I leave a violin as a gift to each of the following professors comprising at present the orchestra of the Theatre Royal of the Italian Opera namely . . . one to Mr. Wilkins . . .

John Maidment, "St John's Anglican Church . . . New Town", Organ Historical Trust of Australia

https://www.ohta.org.au/organs/organs/NewTownStJohnsAnglican.html