Historical information

Frank Wright was born at Smeaton, lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner, and his large family was musical, winning many awards in the singing and instrumental areas. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and by the age of 18 was the Australian Open Cornet Champion. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and as conductor Frank won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. He became well known and respected as a conductor and adjudicator of band competitions at very high levels in Australia and New Zealand.

In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, as well as at Ballarat’s South Street and in Australia and New Zealand.

The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.

Physical description

Sepia photo postcard of Wright Family Group. Frank Wright's father (William) on far right, and mother in centre back.

Inscriptions & markings

3 small holes in photo