The ORLANDO Waltz

Composer Maud Fitz-Stubbs (Australian, died 1940)

Publisher W C Penfolds & Co

Datec 1894

Object number00018489

NameSheet music

MediumInk, linen, paper

DimensionsOverall: 320 x 280 mm, 0.1 kg

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis sheet music was written to celebrate the cruiser HMS ORLANDO and was dedicated to His Excellency, Rear Admiral Bowden-Smith. The eight-page booklet was the eighth edition to be published and sold at a cost of 2 shillings. HMS ORLANDO was a popular flagship of the Australia Station for nine years. This song was played in the ship's honour at dances and receptions in the late 19th century.HistoryIn the 19th century the British Royal Navy (RN) divided the world into strategic zones or stations. Each station had a squadron of warships to cruise its waters and protect British interests. Until the 1850s Australasia was covered by the East India Station, but in 1859 after pressure from the colonial governments in Australia and New Zealand, the RN formed the Australia Station as a separate command. This was one of the initial steps in the development of Australia's own naval force and defence system. Most Australian colonies had their own volunteer navies to provide coastal and harbour defence, but they received vital support from Royal Navy ships. HMS ORLANDO was a first-class Royal Navy cruiser built by Palmers Shipbuilding & Iron Company at Jarrow, England and launched on 3 August 1886. ORLANDO was sent to the Australia Station and gained popularity as the flagship, visiting all the main ports in Australia and New Zealand during its nine-year career. ORLANDO returned to England in 1898 and was sent to China between 1889 and 1901, to take part in the Boxer Rebellion, later being sold on 11 July 1905. Sheet music offers an insight into popular culture and social values at the time of their production. The widely distributed pieces were fairly cheap to purchase, making them appealing to the general public. After the 1850s the development of the printing press' and affordable instruments increased the demand for sheet music. Maud Fitz-Stubbs was a Sydney-based amateur pianist who turned professional during the late 19th century. She started playing the piano in early childhood - her grandfather was composer and publisher Thomas Stubbs. With five children to support Maud published her compositions from 1892 onwards as well as performing and teaching piano. Significance'The Orlando Waltz' reflects national pride associated with the Australia Station flagship HMS ORLANDO. The publication of nine editions of this musical score highlights its popularity at the time.