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Ron Shadbolt Orchestra

Ron Shadbolt 1933 - 2003

Ron Shadbolt's interest in music began in 1944 when he was involved in a serious train accident. He was eleven years old at the time and the accident left him a double amputee. While he was recovering in hospital and at home - a period of more than four months - he started listening to the big bands of the time. He was immediately hooked particularly with the Glen Miller sound

At the first opportunity he joined the London Police Boys Band and took up tenor sax and clarinet. At the age of fifteen he joined Johnny Brennen's Band and played for many years in the London area for this group. In 1955 a dance hall "The 401" opened up just outside Lambeth and the group played there for many years. Ron Shadbolt eventually bought Johnny Brennan's book and formed the Modernaires to play in the venue. They were an immediate success in their blue tuxedos and sophisticated sound and remained the house band at The 401 for more than twenty years.

The Modernaires also played at Wonderland Gardens London, Stork Club Port Stanley, and for many years in Southampton.

Ron was also Secretary-Treasurer for AFM Local 279 London Musicians Association for 21 years