VISIT OF NATIONAL ORCHESTRA

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25254, 5 August 1947, Page 8

VISIT OF NATIONAL ORCHESTRA

RECEPTION TO PLAYERS AND GUEST CONDUCTOR

Christchurch citizens were proud of the guest conductor of the National Orchestra (Mr Warwick Braithwaite) because he was a New Zealander, said the Mayor (Mr E. H. Andrews), at a leception to Mr Braithwaite and members of the orchestra yesterday afternoon. It was 30 years since Mr Braithwaite had been in New Zealand and during that time he had made his mark in the world of music He was ranked as one of the foremost conductors in the world, and this was a great distinction for the country. A welcome on behalf of tne Christchurch Civic Music Council was given by Mr J. L. Hay, who said it was hoped to have a first-class orchestra in the city. The council was particularly interested in the National Orchestra, which in a short.time had reached a ,iigh standard. New Zealand shared in the revival of interest in music. In spite of predictions, the orchestra already occupied a high place. Speaking on behalf of those who were interested in an “amateur way” in music. Professor J. Hight regretted ’.hat Christchurch did not have a suitI able hall for the orchestra.

Replying, Mr Braithwaite said he had attended many such receptions, but this was the first to which the orchestra had also been invited. He smilingly commented that he regretted coming to New Zealand because now he did not want to leave again He intended returning to Great Britain in a short time, but hoped it would be possible to come back in three or four

years and conduct the orchestra again. Already New Zealand had an orchestra which ranked among the best. The orchestra will give two performances in Christchurch in the Civic Theatre. The first performance will be to-morrow evening and the second on Friday evening.