Peckham, South London, gave birth to a bandleader. This man was Henry Hall. This plaque honors him. Henry Hall was born on May 2, 1898. He became a prominent figure on BBC Radio. This was during the British dance band era. This era spanned the 1920s to the 1960s.
Henry Hall’s journey began with a scholarship. He attended Trinity College of Music. There he studied trumpet and piano. He also studied harmony and counterpoint. His early career included writing marches for the Salvation Army. During World War I, he served with the Royal Field Artillery. He played trumpet and piano in the regimental band.
Hall’s musical career gained momentum. He was engaged by the London Midland and Scottish Railway. He oversaw music throughout their hotels. This included the Gleneagles Hotel. He had previously led the band there.
A pivotal moment occurred in June 1924. It was the opening night of the Gleneagles Hotel. Hall persuaded the BBC to broadcast the event on radio. This marked the beginning of his long association with BBC radio.
In 1932, the BBC appointed him band leader. He succeeded Jack Payne. He lead the BBC Dance Orchestra. Hall’s radio program aired at 5.15 pm each weekday. It gathered a huge following across the nation. His signature tune was “It’s Just the Time for Dancing”. He usually concluded with “Here’s to the Next Time”.
That year, he recorded popular songs. “Here Comes the Bogeyman” and “Teddy Bears’ Picnic” became hits. The latter sold over a million copies. By 1934, his orchestra topped the bill at the London Palladium.
Hall first visited America in September 1933. He studied American bands. He met famous musicians like George Gershwin.
During a trip to the US in 1934, something funny happened. The BBC Dance Orchestra still broadcast. They were announced as directed by Henry Hall. Even though he wasn’t there. When he returned, he announced “This IS Henry Hall speaking!”. He kept doing this. It became his trademark.
Hall’s band appeared on television in 1935. They featured in the film Music Hath Charms. In 1936, he made his first feature film. He also conducted the ship’s orchestra on the Queen Mary’s maiden voyage. He even wrote a song for the occasion “Somewhere at Sea”.
In 1937, the BBC Dance Orchestra played at the Gaumont State Cinema opening. Later that year, Hall left the BBC. He toured with his own band. It included many of his BBC band members.
During World War II, Hall entertained the troops. He gave concerts in factories. After the war, he became an agent and producer. His BBC work flourished again. He hosted Henry Hall’s Guest Night on radio and television.
In 1955, Hall published his autobiography. It was titled Here’s to the Next Time. He dedicated it to his wife, Margery. He ceased regular broadcasting in 1964.
In 1970, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire, CBE. Henry Hall died in Eastbourne, Sussex, in October 1989, aged 91.
This green plaque was unveiled on May 2, 1996. It marks the site of his former home. Henry Hall lived at 8 Randolph Mews from 1959 to 1981. His legacy lives on through his music. He pioneered popular music on the BBC. His contributions to British entertainment are unforgettable.