VALUE OF MUSIC

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 61, Issue 248, 1 August 1941, Page 2

VALUE OF MUSIC

INFLUENCE IN THE COMMUNITY. ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY DESIRED. The value of music in the community and the suggestion that an orchestral society should be formed in Ashburton were the subject of comment by a competent musical authority in Ashburton in an interview with the “Guardian” to-day.

“With the approach of the local Competitions one is again reminded of the splendid work which the officers of the local Society are doing for the advancement of one of the greatest arts, existent, that of .music,” said the speaker. “These good people are generously supported by the musicloving citizens •of this community in the matte}- of suitable trophies, etc., but, generally speaking, active interest is lacking. “Without bringing personalities into the question we should be reminded of the wonderful incentive given to our young pianists in the provision of one of the most handsome trophies existent in New Zealand to-day for competition in the pianoforte section. Undoubtedly, this trophy was given for the specific purpose of encouraging our young musicians to acquire a. real love for the art and to develop their talent to a high standard. In my opinion this competition section is not supported in anything like the desired degree perhaps due to the inferiority complex of students and teachers or, shall I say, lack of ambition. On the other hand, the. attainment of such proficiency must not be ruined by the selfish attitude sp prevalent to-day. We are too ready to indulge ip the practice of self-glorification and to breed contempt for the other fellow’s efforts. After all, our talents are God given for us to use to the wisest and greatest advantage of cur race. I have the greatest admiration for the fine community work carried out by one of our pianoforte trophy-winners of recent years. May her example be followed by others.

After the First Years of Tuition. > “In general, I am of the opinion that too much jealousy exists between both competitors and teachers in all our competition classes to the extent that we find our vocal and instrumental classes lacking in number and quality. This, I think, is brought about unconsciously, but must be severely checked by the teachers and officers of the Society. How often we hear the remark, ‘Oh, my pupils will certainly not be allowed to compete if so-and-so is the judge.’ 'Surely the worst type of attitude that anyone could adopt. I think that every pupil should lie encouraged to enter into competition and lieeome proficient as a soloist. “For various reasons some parents refrain from consenting to the entry of. a promising musician into good competition where the advice given and experience gained is of the utmost importance. This brings us to the instance where parents, at personal sacrifice, pay something like £4O to £SO for the musical education of a. child in elocutionary, instrumental or vocal sections, after which private practice, becomes monotonous and the student ceases the art in, disgust, much to the disappointment of parents who had great visions of music in the home and pleasure all around. “However, there is one hope left—to join the local orchestral,, choral or repertory society, whichever is in accordance with the student’s desire.

“This is where we come to a blank. What has this town to offer in this direction ? Where do we lack and who is < responsible ? The Competitions Society has done its job, but who cares about the half-developed musicians? Let them go to the wall, we can do without music, especially while the war is on, says the selfish, non-progressive citizen, God forbid we should ever get into this state of melancholy, but we are heading for it unless wo. act and act quickly.

Action by Borough Council Urged. “After our recent local body elections many of the successful candidates assured the public of their intention to pnrsub a sincerely progressive policy. I invite our Borough Council to call a. meeting of local musicians and elocutionists and arrange for the Choral Society and Repertory Society to revive their good work of the past, not to condescend to the lame excuse that hall accommodation is not available. Make the best of what is available and get a real thrill out of the work. Further, why cannot we have an Orchestral Society which could operate throughout the winter months and provide our young instrumentalists with the very meat for their future musical activity and development. I am certain that this could be done. “In recent years we have been too satisfied to rely upon the services of a few very loyal musicians who have come together at short notice and performed excellent work. While these good people are to be* commended upon their efforts, we are still doing nothing for our younger players. I ask the question, \yhat is going to happen when some of our prominent string and reed players leave our town or reach the age of retirement ? We will have no orchestra at all. Well, would not an orchestral society foster the learning of these instruments and’ see to it that younger players are coming on to fill up the vacancies? Yes certainly, hut it is someone’s response biiity to inaugurate such, a society and give them practical support. ' Our local Band is assisted! and I will say that they have justified all the support given. Where difficulties stared them, in the face continuously, they rose above -all obstacles and arc a credit to the town in all their activities, especially in contesting and broadcasting, This was possible through the intensive practice necessary and the tuition and encouragement of ycung players. “Let our Borough Council take the initiative suggested and follow it up with a suitable grant toward the annual expenses of such, societies. Further the public will need to take a sincere interest in the performances givenand I am sure that the talented people will: justify all the support given from time to time. There is no art that we can pursue which is mere uplifting to the mind and soul of young and old alike. Instead of criticising the modern youth, encourage them in the better avenues of life.”