THE ORATORIO.

Auckland Star, Volume I, Issue 107, 13 May 1870, Page 2

THE ORATORIO.

The performance of Haydn's magnificent oratorio, " The Creation," took place last night in the Music Hall, Symonds-slreet. There were present Sir George and Lady Bowen and Suite, the officers of II M S. Rosai'io, and the eli:e of Auckland We regret that the attendance was not so large as might have been expected from the nature of the entertainment and its philanthropic objects, not more tha,n 150 or 200 having responded to the appeal, which may arise from the fact that it had been scarcely sufficiently advertised. The promoters, however, will, we presume, be able to hand over a very good cheque to the funds of the Home for Women in Parnell. The orchestra was not so good as on previous occasions, and there was weakness perceptible in the altos and trebles in the choruses, the faces of many that should have taken part in the performance being " conspicuous for their absence." There seemed an insufficient practice in the preparation of the performers; and the choruses were accordingly but moderately well rendered, excepting the last, " Achieved is the glorious work," which wai really magnificent. The soloa were entrusted to Miss Shannaghan end Madame Moller, soprano; Mr. Winter, tenor ; and Mr. Newbury, bass. Miss Shannagban's rendering of the air " On mighty pens," was exceedingly fine, every note being clear as a bell. Madame Moller was faulty in most of her solos. Mr. Winter's rendering of "In native worth" was tolerable, buthia v ice was too noisy for the solos. Mr. Newbury took the part of Ralph, and the whole of the recitations wore fine; he is very correct in rendering, and his pronunciation good, the only portion causing disappointment being the beautiful air, " tolling in foaming billows," in which the singer appeared nervous, and his voice at times was hardly discernible. It is needless to say that Mr. Brown conducted the performance with great ability, and that to his skill and care in wielding the baton is largely attributable the measure of success which attended the concert. To the ladies and gentlemen who generously contributed their time and pains and effort for such a charitable object the sincere thanka of the community are due.