ENJOYABLE CONCERT

Auckland Star, Volume LXXII, Issue 180, 1 August 1941, Page 9

ENJOYABLE CONCERT

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

BRILLIANT ORGAN WORK

An exceptionally fine and well-arranged programme, full of effective contrast, wae presented by the Auckland Symphony Urcheetra at its second concert of the easo ~, eivon in the Town Hall last evening. The two major works of the evening were Mozart's G Minor Symphony and Cuilmant'e "Concerto in 1) Minor" for organ and orchestra, given a repeat pertormance in response to numerous requests.

Laet night's presentation of Mozart's beautiful work, described ae being rhe ""most passionate' , of his symphonies, was undoubtedly a great improvement upon previous renditions heard in Auckland, the great com poser's graceful music being given ■ iiore delicate treatment than usual. There was, however, an occasional lapse in intonation in t'he wood-wind section and the success of a most enjoyable performance was due mainly to the excellent work of the strings, tastefully led by Miss Helen Gray.

The principal honours in the organ concerto, which made an effective contract to the eymphony, fell to Mr. Trevor Sparling who gave a brilliant exposition at the keyboard, thoroughly deserving the ovation lie was accorded at the close of the performance.

The orchestra was aleo heard to considerable advantage in a tastefully shaded rendition of Nicolai'e melodious "Merry Wives of Windsor" overture. The etrings were most pleasing in Jarnefelt's lovely "Berceuse," in which the eoloiets, Mise Gray and Mise Hemus, played moet delightfully; also in compositions by Delibee and Rimsky-Korsakoff.

The braae eection wae every effective in both Hosner's "Southern Phapeody and Friedmanii's "Slavonic Rhapsody," the latter having to be repeated. The work of the ensemble throughout demonstrated amply that, under Mr. Colin Mueton's enthusiastic and experienced direction the standard of orchestral performance ie •steadily on the upgrade.

Vocal relief was provided by Mies Jean McGregor, mezzo-eonrrnlto, and Mr. James Leigh ton, base. Mise McGregor pleased lier listeners in eonge by Bantock and P. Curran, and Mr. Leighton sang Handel's "Si Tra I Ceppi" with much taste. Botti .■=iiiKers wene recalled by an appreciative audience. The accompanimente were played by Mre. Reg. Reed ivitih her usual efficiency.