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National Film and Sound Archive of AustraliaNational Film and Sound Archive
National Film and Sound Archive of Australia
National Film and Sound Archive
National Film and Sound Archive of Australia
National Film and Sound Archive

Better Make the Most of It by Jim Conway's Big Wheel

2003

Better Make the Most of It by Jim Conway's Big Wheel

2003

  • NFSA IDDW0XZXP2
  • TypeTelevision
  • MediumMoving Image
  • FormLive performance (includes concert), Music
  • GenresPopular music
  • Year2003

Harmonica player Jim Conway was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1983. Despite the steady decline in his condition, he continued to perform for several decades.

Conway began his musical career as a member of jug-band blues outfit the Captain Matchbox Whoopee Band, performing alongside his brother Mick Conway. After the group split up, Conway founded the blues band Jim Conway's Big Wheel in 1999. This 2003 recording of one of the group's live performances showcases Conway's synchronicity with other blues musicians and his passion for the riffs. Shot at iconic Sydney jazz venue The Basement, the clip captures Conway's musical prowess and the spirited energy of his band members (and their instruments!).

During this first number, 'Better Make the Most of It', Conway introduces each band member to the audience before they perform an improvised solo. Conway's virtuoso talents on the harmonica are put on full display, along with the group's sense of balance: though Conway is introduced first, the camera is primarily focused on pianist Don Hopkins, who is also the lead vocalist.

Conway continued to perform live until 2014, when his multiple sclerosis left his face partially paralysed.

Harmonica player Jim Conway was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1983. Despite the steady decline in his condition, he continued to perform for several decades.

Conway began his musical career as a member of jug-band blues outfit the Captain Matchbox Whoopee Band, performing alongside his brother Mick Conway. After the group split up, Conway founded the blues band Jim Conway's Big Wheel in 1999. This 2003 recording of one of the group's live performances showcases Conway's synchronicity with other blues musicians and his passion for the riffs. Shot at iconic Sydney jazz venue The Basement, the clip captures Conway's musical prowess and the spirited energy of his band members (and their instruments!).

During this first number, 'Better Make the Most of It', Conway introduces each band member to the audience before they perform an improvised solo. Conway's virtuoso talents on the harmonica are put on full display, along with the group's sense of balance: though Conway is introduced first, the camera is primarily focused on pianist Don Hopkins, who is also the lead vocalist.

Conway continued to perform live until 2014, when his multiple sclerosis left his face partially paralysed.

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