Una Winifred Atwell

Championing Hull’s black history

Championing diversity, inclusivity, and equality in our community.

Una Winifred Atwell was a pianist and composer born in the colony of Trinidad who migrated to Britain and who enjoyed great popularity in Britain and Australia from the 1950s with a series of boogie-woogie and ragtime hits, selling over 20 million records.

Una Winifred Atwell (27 February or 27 April 1910 or 1914 – 28 February 1983) was a pianist and composer born in the colony of Trinidad who migrated to Britain and who enjoyed great popularity in Britain and Australia from the 1950s with a series of boogie-woogie and ragtime hits, selling over 20 million records.[3] She was the first black artist to have a number-one hit in the UK Singles Chart and had the first piano instrumental to reach number one in the UK Singles Chart, with “Let’s Have Another Party” in 1954, and as of 2023, remains the only female instrumentalist to do so.

Born: 27 April 1914, Tunapuna, Trinidad and Tobago

Died: 28 February 1983 (age 68 years), Sydney, Australia

Place of burial: Northern Rivers Memorial Park, South Gundurimba, Australia

Spouse: Lew Levisohn (m. 1946–1977)

Genre: Jazz

our values

Collaboration

With the support of Hull University, we strive to create lasting change by working hand-in-hand with local stakeholders and community leaders.

Equality

Hull’s Black community is a vibrant and integral part of our city. 

Diversity

The vibrant mix of cultures, traditions, and perspectives enriches the social fabric of the city, making it a truly unique and dynamic place to live.

Inclusive

We work collaboratively and inclusively to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued.

ready to get involved?

Get in touch today