123 George Street, London W1

 

Marlene was very privileged to live at 123 George Street, London W1 for three years. The house had been used by the British composer, Ralph Vaughan Williams on his frequent visits to London. Marlene lived in the rooms once occupied by him.

The house was owned by the Hadley family, Dr. Hadley and his wife Jean, better known as the viola player, Jean Stewart. Jean was for many years viola player in the Menges Quartet and the Richards Piano Quartet with pianist, Bernard Roberts. Vaughan Williams composed his String Quartet no.2 in A minor for Jean Stewart and the Menges Quartet gave the first performance at a wartime National Gallery concert in October, 1944. It has a prominent viola part throughout.

 

Many well-known musicians visited the beautiful four-storey Georgian house. One memorable occasion was an informal concert given by Jacqueline du Pré and an ensemble of cellists in a performance of 'Bachianas Brasilieras' by Villa-Lobos. The venue was the lovely first floor music room, where several invited guests had gathered.

 

Other visitors to the house during Marlene's time included Ursula Vaughan Williams, Hilda Bor, Sir Gilmour Jenkins, Joan Trimble, Bernard Roberts, Bernard Richards, Nona Liddell and Johnnie Stewart. Johnnie Stewart, Jean's brother, was better known as the creator and producer of BBC Television's 'Top of the Pops'.

 

The house was always a hive of musical activity and Marlene has always remained very grateful to the wonderful Hadley family for allowing her to share their splendid home and for treating her like a member of the family.