SYMPHONY CONCERT

Dominion, Volume 25, Issue 266, 5 August 1932, Page 2

SYMPHONY CONCERT

Meritorious Programme HIS EXCELLENCY PRESENT Though the Weataer was bitter last evening the Town Hall was almost filled to' capacity when the Wellington Symphony Orchestra offered a programme of exceptional and varied interest to lovers of prchestral music. . When it is mentioned that it included Mendelssohn’s “Scotch” symphony (not heard here since the distant days of Mr. Tollis Triinnell), the delightful “Symphonic Espagpol.e” of Lalo, heard for the first time ’with full orchestra, a Handel' concerto for organs and orchestra, find the ever-popular “1812” overture of Tschaikowsky, musical people will realise the greatness of the task set. Also the enthusiasm of ■the conductor, Mr. Leon de Matiny, and those behind him to give only of the best, and that in full measure. On the whole the quality of the performance was excellent, and the orchestra was applauded to the echo. The “Scotch” symphony was born of Mendelssohn’s visit to Edinburgh in 1829, but as it was not played until 1842 it will be seen that >he did not rush the work. Indeed, it has been said that the “Scotch” symphony would have-pass-, ed by tiny other name, as there is little of the Scotch idiom in the score to. give it national identification; but it is a notable work, rich in orchestral colouring. and veined-with delightfully melodious themes—including , ati appealing' lament—which catches and holds the Outstanding in the programme was'Lalo’s exquisite “Symphonic Espagnole,” which should be more properly designated a concerto, as it employs the solo.-violin, in this instance superbly played by Miss Avq Symons.. In this notably picturesque work the composer never loses touch . with the title. The- Spanish idiom, with its languor and passion, pulsates throughout the music,-which is continuously captivating in its freshness and charm. The orchestration is particularly rich and colourful, and was done full justice to. while the wnrjn tone.'. complete' technique, and inherent artistry, of .the. sploist were features in a performance' instinct wjth virtuosity. ■ - - '

Another; admirable .number, and! one altogether unique in Wellington, was Handel’s “Organ. Concerto-in. B Flat,” with Mr, Bernard F. Page as soloist.. All the sublime grandeur of’Handel comes out in this music, and the combination of crand organ and orchestra-. embodying do!ic<ite question and answer passages, is a tribute to the arranger. Mr. Page. The concerto was. received .with enthusiasm. A: number.which- pleased .everyone was. the bizarre waltz from Tschaikowsky's opera, '“Engcn Onegin,” scored 'in the df&matic style of which the. composer is master, yet instinct with the lure of i-tbe dance. Tschaikowsky revels in broad barbaric effects, and uses the brdgs section unsparingly in gaining his somewhat the-, atrlcal effect,'but in. this waltz there are some delightful contrasts la which the strings, wood-winds, and brass share harmonfousiy. . . ' . ■ The.ono yoqal solo.of the evening was the ana, Ab.' Perfido,” of. Beethoven, a number for. soprano and orchestra, not from any opera, but simply composed us a concert number for a prime donna of whom Beethoven thought highly. The ■ soloist, was Miss Helen Gard’her. who sang the appealing aria very well. It was a graceful gesture on the part of the orchestra to invite its vice-president. Mr. Robert Parker, doyen of New Zealand conductors-and musicians, to direct the performance. Mr. Parker, who was given an ovation,. demonstrated: that he is still able, to control an orchestra with skill and dignity. . . ; . The.: grand finale was the. popular “1812” overture of Tschaikowsky; played by the orchestra, with assistance from'the Port Nicholson Silver Band aud Mr,-Page at the Organ. The . opening passage dragged, and that precise cohesion of all sections in the dramatic clangour in Wfi’icn the “Marseilles” is drowned by the imperious majesty of the Russian National Hymn, was not as effective as might, be. Among those present were his Excellence the Governor-General and the Ladv Bledi.sloe, whose party included the president of the orchestra. Mr. D. A. Ewan, and . Mrs. Ewan, and Mrs. Knox Giliner. vicepresident.

PROTECTION FOR BANK CASHIERS. Bank managers at Reigate and Redhill, England, have decided to take up a novel scheme for the protection of bank cashiers from robbers. It is proposed to instal mats behind the bank counter which, when trodden on, will light tin ■ indicator at the poller station. . The suggestion was made by ,-:hc Chief Constable of.Reigate, Mr. W. IT. Bencher. Who said ’: “If the experts favour the scheme, 1 see no reason why it should hot.be adopted in tho London banks also. I( should be particularly effective fe isolated areas, where ordinarily .a 1 thief can (make a clear getaway before the police have n chance of reaching the scene."