JUNIOR STRING ORCHESTRA

Press, Volume LXXXIX, Issue 27204, 23 November 1953, Page 9

JUNIOR STRING ORCHESTRA

CONCERT BY PUPILS OF MR RONALD MOON

In Begg’s Concert Hall on Saturday evening Mr Ronald Moon conducted 12 of his violin pupils whom he has formed into a little orchestra This was a cheering concert both for the quality of the work at present and also for the promise it holds. Mr Moon, whose skilful and experienced playing of the viola has for years been greatly valued in orchestral work m Christchurch, is now doing a further work to enrich our musical life. Results such as were heard atathis conc r x e n J?$ gained without highly skilful teaching of the essential foundations of string playing—good tone and intonation—much hard work in obtaining precision in bowing, and in attack and release from all the players, wisdom in choice of music of an appropriate standard of difficulty, and patience to wait for good results Mr Moon has shown that he has these qualities, and through them he has brought forth from a group of children, aged from nine to 12 years a most commendable standard of playing. The boys and girls themselves deserve high praise for their hard work and for the way in which they have responded to the teaching given. The music chosen had interest as music, and sufficient technical ingenuJty to extend the players without straining their capabilities Kathryn Evans, John’ Lockwood, Angela Cpnnal and Malcolm Mackie all played their solos very well indeed, and showed good promise of a pleasurable musical future. Anne Lockwood, the young pianist for the orchestra, gave a sterling performance throughout the evening. She had a heavy task, and carried it out with poise and efficiency. A little composition for orchestra and pianoforte by her entitled “The Ski-Tow,” showed excellent promise. She got her effects in a natural and, quite surprisingly, economical way. It was played with dash and verve, and was altogether enjoyable. C.F.B.