Portrait of Charles Salaman

Sidney Starr was born in Hull but moved to London to study at the Slade School. His early work was much influenced by his friend Whistler (1834-1903). Starr was a member of the Royal Society of British Artists which he later left to join the New English Art Club. In 1892 a scandal forced him to leave for New York where he remained, as a British citizen, for the rest of his life. He was best known as a painter of portraits, landscapes and murals. Charles Salaman (1814-1901) was a musical composer. Born into a Jewish family, he started his career as a piano teacher but the job was often interrupted by his concert performances in England and on the Continent. As well as playing and composing he gave musically illustrated lectures, including one before Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. His numerous compositions include songs, orchestral pieces and works for the piano as well as musical arrangements for Synagogue services.