Nationalism?

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31349, 20 April 1967, Page 14

Nationalism?

Sir,—There seems to be a little too much nationalist sentiment in this country; it has even spread to the musical field. For instance, a recent advertisement for leader of the N.Z.B.C. Orchestra included “New Zealander preferred.” Now a statement concerning the conductorship of the Christchurch Orchestra: “I prefer a New Zealander.” This is quite interesting. I doubt if statements like this are said in any other country. May I take it that a person who has come to settle here is not considered solely on his merits? It is a dangerous sign and smells of facism.—Yours, etc, INTERNATIONALIST. April 11. 1967. [The district manager of the N.Z.B.C. (Mr K. M. Hay) replies “We are glad to remove the correspondent's doubts. All applications will be considered, on their merits.”] [The president of the Christchurch Civic Orchestra Foundation (Mr G. A. G. Connal) replies: “The board of management of the Christchurch Civic Orchestra has not yet considered the question of the appointment of a permanent conductor, but will probably do so at a meeting next week. Any press statement by a board member suggesting that a New Zealander will be preferred is only an individual opinion and has no authorisation from the board. I would remind ‘lnternationalist’ that when a leader for the orchestra was appointed last year, the appointee resided in England and was not a New Zealander. I am sure that the board will endeavour to obtain the best conductor possible wherever he may reside.”]