Vivian Ellis: Holidays Abroad Suite (1961)

Vivian Ellis (1903–1996) is now remembered for his masterly Coronation Scot written in 1938 and subsequently used as the theme tune to the BBC Radio programme, Paul Temple. It is one of the most evocative pieces of ‘railway music’ ever devised, conjuring up images of speed, sophisticated travel, and the joys of journeying behind a powerful steam locomotive.

Ellis was a prominent British composer, best known for his contributions to musical theatre. A key figure in the golden age of British musical comedy, he created a string of successful stage productions, particularly during the mid-20th century. Good examples of his work include Mr Cinders (1929), The Fleet’s Lit Up (1937) and Bless the Bride (1947), all of which reflect his signature blend of catchy melodies, engaging lyrics, and romantic themes.

Ellis's career began in the 1920s as a concert pianist but he soon became and arranger in London's West End. By the 1930s, he had established himself as a composer. Throughout his career, he collaborated with notable lyricists and librettists, producing shows that enjoyed critical acclaim and popular success. His musicals highlighted a cosmopolitan yet accessible style, characterized by lively orchestrations and lyrical charm.

Holidays Abroad (1961) is a light-hearted suite written by Vivian Ellis. It reflects his signature style of catchy tunes and witty lyrics. It has five descriptive movements – more like postcards really. The first is ‘Reunion in Vienna’ which is a delightful waltz that is both energising and reflective in equal measures. Then follows a picture from Spain’s ‘Costa Brava’: it is an engaging tone-poem describing the sights and sounds of this lovely part of Sunny Spain – just before it was discovered by teeming holidaymakers. The third movement is a gentle evocation of the piazza around the ‘Leaning Tower of Pisa.’ I guess the composer must have had the early morning in mind, as I have never seen it this quiet. The most evocative music comes next: ‘Paris Taxi.’ Anyone who has endured a trip in one of these vehicles at ‘rush hour’ and has negotiated the Place de la Concorde will empathise with Ellis’s ‘take.’ Lots of scurrying, screeching brakes, horns and even hints of a frayed temper and the odd police whistle. The finale is a relaxing ‘Swiss Air.’ I have never been to Switzerland but have often flown over the Alps. This present ‘air’ imagines a pasture rather than a mountain peak. There is a suggestion of lovers walking together on a cool, cloudless day. Monia Liter (1906-1988) was responsible for the subtle orchestrations of these delightful mood pieces.

Though it was not as commercially successful as some of Ellis’s earlier works, it remains notable for its light, frothy narrative and its reflection of post-war optimism and the rising popularity of overseas travel. The music embodies the joyful escapism of the late 1950s, capturing the spirit of adventure and leisure of the time.

Listen to Vivian Ellis’s Holidays Abroad Suite on YouTube, here. The New Concert Orchestra is conducted by Paul Hamilton (Actually Monia Liter) (GLCD  5195) It was originally released on Decca DFE 6667 in 1961.