University Music School Begins New Bole

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30073, 6 March 1963, Page 15

University Music School Begins New Bole

The School of Music of the University of ‘Canterbury held its first elaeees this week. This development of the former music department is making a modest start in practical conservatoriumtype training with pianoforte tuition by Mr Maurice Till but, on the arrival of the university’s Aland quartet from the United States, an extensive range of stringed instrument training will also be given.

Professor J. A. Ritchie is particularly pleased that the students enrolled tor practical instruction will also be take degree courses. Indeed, the School of Music this year has only one non-degree student. He wanted to learn conducting only, and is being fitted in to the degree course in this subject. AH the others studying various branches of music have graduation as their goal. There are 41 in the bachelor of music course or “majoring” for other degrees with five musical units. About 50 others are taking some stages of music . for bachelor of arts degrees.

Ail this. Professor Ritchie said, confirmed the university’s long-held beliefs that there was a demand for

musical training at advanced levels which could be met locally.

The School of Music is making a prompt start in its public programmes this year by beginning toe weekly lunch-hour recitals next week. The first, on March 14, will be by an American pianist, Robert Webber. Other soloists this term will include Cecelia Keating and Alex Lindsay (violin). Lola Johnson (pianist), and Elizabeth Hellawell (operatic soprano).

A feature will be the first New Zealand performance of “Canterbury Tales,” a selection of texts from Chaucer tor soprano soloist, flute, clarinet, and harpsichord, by the American composer, Lester Trimble. The first university recitals and public concert by the Aland String Quartet will be given in the second term. Master classes will again be held by the School of Music this year. The first, for string players, will be conducted by Alex Lindsay. Later it is expected that there will be a master class on musical criticism and commentary, conducted by the Wellington critic and broadcaster, Owen Jensen.