Lydney cinema musicians.

John
wrote (Nov 2006): "My grandfather James W Belcher was the patriarch of
a musical family. By
profession he was a stonemason, but music was his first love. He played
the saxophone, flute, trumpet, violin, harp and anything else that he
could get hold of. He was the Bandmaster of the Two Bridges Brass Band
for many years; played the Last Post at military funerals as an army
private in the area during the 1st World War; led the Lydney Picture
House orchestra during the days of silent movies; had his own family
dance band called the "Paragon D" Orchestra with his sons Harold,
Jack, Ivor and daughter Ethel all members. On top of all this he taught
the flute and other instruments to local people.
The picture of the cinema staff includes Ivor Belcher (far left) on the
left with the violin, James Belcher in the centre back with the flute and
Harold Belcher on
the right
with the
double bass. Ethel also played the piano at the cinema.
The picture of James with his sax was taken at Springfield Rd, Lydney in
the early 1940s".
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