Harry Bidgood

Henry Bidgood (28 August 1898 – 15 November 1957) was an English composer, dance band leader and musical director for films.

Born in West Ham, London, England in 1898, his father was music teacher and composer Thomas Bidgood. The family moved to Harringay in North London when Thomas was about 10 years old.

Bidgood released dance band music under various names, mostly notably Primo Scala and his Accordion Band, Bidgood was also the musical director for numerous films, including several starring George Formby. Apart from the many recordings made under his own name, he also led accordion bands under the names Rossini and Don Porto. As Primo Scala, he broadcast regularly on Music While You Work, until just before his death. Many of these sessions were directed by deputies, such as Ernest Penfold, owing to Bidgood being in and out of hospital.

He died in November 1957, at the age of 59, having been diagnosed with inoperable stomach cancer.