Alexander Lithgow

Alexander Frame Lithgow (1870–1929), musician, was born in Glasgow, arrived in Launceston in 1894 from Invercargill, New Zealand, where he had spent his youth, and established his reputation as a cornet soloist. Appointed conductor of the St Joseph's Band, Lithgow was active in other musical groups in Launceston, but his association with the immensely popular band ensured his reputation as a conductor and composer. His lively marches earned him the soubriquet 'the Sousa of the Antipodes', his eponymous homage to the city of his youth arguably the best known and most enduring of his compositions. Employed as a compositor, Lithgow's quiet personality was at variance with the zest of his compositions and keen interest in sport. Ill-health forced his resignation in 1927, when the city musicians farewelled him with a complimentary concert.

Further reading: ADB 10; Weekly Courier, 22 June 1927.

Margaret Glover