MISS PHYLLIS LETT.

Press, Volume LXIII, Issue 18927, 16 February 1927, Page 6

MISS PHYLLIS LETT.

OX SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26. On Saturday. February 20t!i. Mis* Phyllis bctt, the famon' English coulralto, will make her first appearance in Christchurch at the Caledonian Hall under tho direction of Mr K. J. Gravestuck. England has produced many tine singers, and Miss Lett must he awarded a foremost position among them. "She possesses one of England's . richest voices," Kays an English critic, and the (rreat teacher of singing, Jean de Iteskc. wept when he first heard her sing. "What n beautiful voice," bo said, in French, "a true contralto." And.there and then offered to coach' her for a year free—a generous offer considering fho enormous fees the great maestro received. Miss Lett is a great favourite with English audiences, and her departure for Australia and Xew Zealand was marked with a wonderful farowoll concert nt the Queen's Hall, tho platform being crowded v.-itU beautiful floral tributes and presents. One .of bcr last appearances i:i England was at tho Crystal Palace for tho Handel festival, when 30.000 people were assembled, the London "Times" critic remarking on this occasion: "Miss Phyllis Lett's beautiful voice was remarkable for tho way in which her slightest pianissimo carried to every corner of the vast building." ' Mr Gravestock has engaged a very flno supporting company for Mi6s Lott, including Miss.Margot Macgibbon, a clever ... young violinist, who won last-year the Associated Board's scholarship; Mr Norman Bennett, Australia'* most promising ; tenor, who has scored many triumphi there: and'Mr Maunco Beslv, tho distinguished English composerpianist.. Mr Besly is ono ot. the. leading figures in modern music affairs'* in Great Britain. He was the • first Englishman to have the. honour of .conducting tho-famous Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, whilst his compositions have been played. and Rung throughout'the world. Several of his songs will be heard at Miss Lett's concerts, and two of his works are test pieces for tho forthcoming AVelUngton competitions. The proVBrimmes n»e:of a vaHeA and-pqopir nature, and .should provide a treat for- musical enthuaia'sts. Tho bo* plans will open on Wednesday, February 53rd. at-The Bristol, doncessions will be granted to students nnd members of musical societies..