MR NEVILL-SMITH.

Press, Volume LXII, Issue 18625, 25 February 1926, Page 10

MR NEVILL-SMITH.

*— FIRST RECITAL. Mr Nevill-Smith is surely a niiracleman. In thfl days when Christehurch was big enough to hold him, he did not sing, or at least he sang only in the studio with his pupils. Even that an outsider may have thought unwise! Then at an"age when most men singers note the first signs of wear and tear he wanders far afield in quest of a new voice, and, for a wonder, he gets it. Presently he tests the value of his acquisition at some of the world's big show-places, and he and they find it good. And we here may well endorse their opinions after his first recital in the Choral Hall last night. In a general way the voice makes not an immediate impression of power, but appeals sympathetically in every number and diverse style he attempts. Even so, Mr Nevill-Smith is able t > expand his voice to a substantial volume, as he proved in the case of Massenet'. Aria "Vision Fugitive,'' and of the Handel Aria. Similarly he led up to the finale of O'Hara's "Living God." And Mr Nevill-Smith has enjoyed the great advantage of being a good musician, before he developed into a good singer. So we can be guided by his taste and understanding, whether he draws from English or foreign sources. English, Italian, Russian, and French schools were represented in his elaborate programme, some startlingly new, like Bavel's "Peacock," and the Kussian ballads, none missing the contemplated effect.

An admirable little company gave him support. Miss Amy Nevill-Smitk snowed a warm, resonant tone, and considerable skill in her violin solo, the Grades Sonata, and in the duets with Mr Eees Me'Conachy, who followed effectively in her footsteps, the two violins blending very well indeed. Later on he also appealed as soloist with marked success. . Both received excellent service at the" piano on the part of Mr Fred Hyde. Also Miss NeyillSmith's "obligatos" are to be highly commended. A lady's voice, Miss Grace Scott's contralto, was very warmly appreciated in her three songs,by the audience, who, indeed, expressed their pleasure on all occasions throughout the concert. Mr Nevill-Smith had. the benefit of Mrs Mangos's excellent and refined accompaniments. A farewell recital will be given at the Choral Hall on Saturday evening.