ROYAL MUSICAL SOCIETY

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28552, 3 April 1958, Page 7

ROYAL MUSICAL SOCIETY

Bach’s St. Matthew Passion Last evening's performance of the St. Matthew Passion by the Royal Christchurch Musical Society was deserving of the highest praise. To Mr FieldDodgson, the conductor, and to all members of the chorus, congratulations are given both for technical efficiency and for a wellrounded performance which had both austerity and devotional fervour.

Particular reference must be made to the chorus passages which are associated with the tenor recitative and aria—so very beautifully sung by Mr John Forrest—and also those interpolations in “See the Saviour’s Outstretched Hands.” Mr Edmund Bohan sang the very difficult part of the Evangelist and did it extremely well. His quality of voice and the admirable clarity of his words were greatly appreciated. He showed an exemplary sense of phrasing and sang with rhythmic flexibility. He has both the dramatic flair and also the necessary control of emotion for success in this great work.

Mr Winston Sharp aggin ‘sang the words of Christ and did so with dignity and understanding. Mrs Anita Ritchie was the soprano soloist. She sang “In Love My Saviour Now is Dying” very beautifully indeed, and special mention must be made of Mr Trevor Hutton’s excellent playing of the counter-melody on the flute in this aria.

Miss Mary Pratt once again made solo singing take new meaning and stature in all that she did. “Ah Now Is My Saviour Gone.” and the great aria. ‘Have Mercy Izord On Me,” were highlights of the performance. Mr Donald Jack’s excellent bass voice was well suited to the various parts allotted to him and he sang his two arias acceptably. The 3YA Orchestra plaved the accompaniments with efficiency. Nan Armstrong led her players with confidence and played her solo work with artistry

Alison Edgar’s playing of the continuo part deserved high praise, and was at all times’most interesting. She contributed greatly to the success of the work. It is to be hoped that she will be provided with a harpsichord for some future performance. —C.F.B.