Leila Steedman - Mornington & District Historical Society

Leila Steedman (1895-1964): Mornington’s Musical Maverick

At the heart of Mornington’s rich cultural tapestry lies a story of passion, talent, and a fierce dedication to music. This is the story of Leila Steedman, a woman whose life was as vibrant and unconventional as the music she conducted.

Born in 1895 in Williamstown to Ernest and Emily Steedman, Leila’s early life was shaped by her family’s move to Mornington, where they built their elegant home, Summerlea, on Tanti Avenue. While Summerlea no longer stands, replaced by the homes of Summerlea Close, its legacy endures through the remarkable contributions Leila made to Mornington’s cultural life.

Leila Steedman’s musical prowess was evident early on, and she became a beloved music teacher, mentoring a wide range of students in various instruments. Her career began as the organist at St. Peter’s Church, but her tenure ended following a spirited disagreement with the Vicar—a glimpse into the strong-willed character that would define her legacy. Despite this, her connection to the church remains, with plaques commemorating her and her family inside St. Peter’s.

In 1922, Leila’s passion for music extended beyond teaching when she gathered a group of local musicians for Sunday evening performances at the Methodist and Presbyterian churches. From these modest beginnings, the Summerlea Orchestra was born. Under Leila’s leadership, the orchestra quickly gained recognition, performing at public concerts with growing success. By the late 1930s, they were a celebrated part of Mornington’s cultural life, reaching their peak just before the outbreak of World War II.

After the war, Leila’s influence expanded even further with the formation of the Mornington Peninsula Symphony Orchestra, which she led with unwavering authority into the 1950s. Her commitment to excellence was legendary. One of the more colourful tales of her career was her insistence that every performance feature her treasured Steinway grand piano. No matter the venue, this prized instrument would be transported by truck to ensure the highest quality of sound—a testament to both her dedication and her eccentric flair.

Beyond music, Leila Steedman was known around Mornington as the “Cat Woman.” She shared her home with an astonishing number of animals—at one point, 28 cats and 15 dogs roamed freely through Summerlea. Her compassion extended beyond her home, as she ventured out each evening to feed stray cats along the cliffs and in the surrounding scrublands, cementing her reputation as one of Mornington’s most intriguing characters.

Leila Steedman passed away in 1964, but her legacy as Mornington’s musical pioneer lives on. She not only conducted the town’s only symphony orchestra but also brought a vibrant, dynamic energy to its cultural scene. Today, her story continues to resonate, reminding us of the enduring power of music and the remarkable individuals who bring it to life.

 

Image: Leila Steedman    Credit: Mornington and District Historical Society