Campoli applauded

Press, Volume CXVI, Issue 34132, 20 April 1976, Page 18

Campoli applauded

Last evening in the James Hay Theatre Alfredo Campoli gave a farewell recital in which he was assisted by his pupil, Belinda Bunt, and accompanied by Maurice Tin. Much has been written in praise of Mr Campoli. The late Master of the

Queen’s Musick (Sir Arthur Bliss) showed his appreciation by dedicating to him his violin concerto; and last night a large audience gave him a standing ovation.

Beginning with Tartini’s Sonata in G minor (a fine example of the composer’s writing) he went on to Bach’s great Chaconna from the Oartia No. 2 in D minor, regarded (according to Schweitzer) as the classical pieces for solo violin. Mr Till rejoined him in a memorable performance of Beethoven’s Sonata in C minor. Op. 30, No. 2. Here, the vivacity of the allegro con brio, the lovely singing of the adagio contabile, the scherzo’s youthful zest and the splendid climax of the final allegro were interpreted by both players with mature artistry. Miss Bunt and Mr Till then played Dvorak’s Sanatina Op. 100, a charming work in which both performers showed close understanding of the widely varying moods as for instance between the plaintive largbetto and the finale with its attractive quirks.

Mr Campoli then joined Miss Bunt in Viotti’s duo in D major, a cleverley-written work in three movements. Here again there was an excellent unanimity, the players being perfectly matched in every contrasting change. Finally’, Mr Campoli played a group of pieces by Kreisler, himself a virtuoso violinist and the composer of comparatively short movements for violin and piano which have artistry. I n Alfred Campoli, Christchurch has had as guest ia remarkable veteran in virtuosity and deeply sensitive interpretation. And in Maurice Till New Zealand has an accompanist to match. —Vernon Griffiths.

Tennis. — Tony Roche, who has not woa a major tournament since 1972. taught his younger opponent a few lessons as he beat Vitas Gerulaitis, 6-3. 3-6, 6-1, for the Charlotte tennis classic championship in Carolina.