N.S.W. ORCHESTRA.

Auckland Star, Volume LIII, Issue 227, 25 September 1922, Page 7

N.S.W. ORCHESTRA.

MR. SKALSKI RETIRES. SYDNEY, Stptember 21. Once again the N.S.W Orchestra is in difficulties. And co soon after it seemed to have steered clear of the troubles arising from Mr. Verbrugghen's finessing and the financial complications. | This time it is Mr. Skaleki. Only a few weeks ago he had taken the orchestra \ into his own hands, reorganising it on a ' co-operative basis, and acting in the capacity of conductor. A bright future was promised. Now, quite unexpectedly, he announces his retirement. The first intimation was a letter received by the committee from Mr. Skalski, stating that he did not intend to continue in association with the orchestra. According to Mr. Tortus, themanager, no difficulty had arisen regarding financial conditions, the committee having amended their financial proposals I to meet Mr. Skalski's wishes. Mr. SkalSki's insistent demand that he should j receive a twelve months' engagement in order to secure his tenure of office was a condition which the orchestra, as at present constituted, could not possibly agree to. Mr. Portus explained that all engagements for the future would be fulfilled. The appointment of Mr. Alfred Hill as successor to Mr. Skalski, is very popular. Mr. Hill, who is a native of New Zealand, recently impressed Sydney by his new opera "Auster." He is already known for various operatic pieces of a light character, such as "Lady Dolly") (musical comedy), "Taupo," and "Rajah , of Shivaporc" (comic opera), "Giovanni" ; (grand opera). "Tlie Moorish Maid" (in ; which Lilian Tree and Rosina lluckman j appeared), and the "Hinemoa Cantata." Previously he acted as deputy-conductor j to Mr. Verbrugghen.