BIBLICAL SONGS

Evening Post, Volume CXI, Issue 26, 1 February 1926, Page 9

BIBLICAL SONGS

TO THE IDITOR.

Sir.-^ln view of the announcement that Dame Clara Butt is to sing DvorakU "Biblical Songs" at her concert in tHe Town H*U to-morrow night, may I, as a visitor to New Zealand, direct the attention of not only music-lovers but leaders and members of all, religious bodies. These songs created an unforgettable impression upon all those that were fortunate enough to hear^ them sung by the famous singer in the Sydney Town Hall/ and caused such a sensation in musical and religious circles th'.t I imay be pardoned for quoting the following article which ■■ appeared in the official organ of the 31ethodist Church in New South Wales, which more profoundly expresses the thoughts of my sal f and the thousands that were present on the occasion of the performance of this wonderful music. The article referred to is headed "A Hint to Preachers," and goes on to say:—"ln a beautiful spirit a letter was written to the 'Sydney Morning Herald' some few weeks ago in which one of the teachers of singing at the Conservatorium gave some of his experiences of singers and singing, very helpful comment to those who read it, and especially to lovers of music. Tlio inspiration was one of Dame Clara Butt's concerts, in which she delighted her audience with Biblical songs. The writer was thrilled and moved, and expressed the hope that they Nvould be repeated during the concert season tor the benefit' of the people generally, which he termed ''noble thoughts uob'y expressed in music, and delivered with magnificent sincerity arid conviction.' He claimed that 'the diva- possesses in an almost -unique degree the power of realising the full nobility and grandeur of great classical arias, and the devotional inspiration of the finest sacred music. . . . ■ The varying moods of reverential awe, fear of death and judgment, trust in the Divine mercy, joyous exaltation of spirit, and praise of God's greatness and power were so eloquently expressed, imbued with such passionate earnestness and intensity of feeling, that even the most sceptical could hardly fail to receive the impression of a higher Power sneaking the God-given voice.' We have quoted thus fully to give an even wider publicity to. this exquisite appreciation by a musician of a greater artiste. But >ie further adds—and this is our chief reasonfor referring to the letter—'Only an artist with deeply-rooted religious convictions could infuse such- white-hot fervour and sincerity into her singing nf these beautiful' Psalms, and if .we had preachers capable of delivering the Biblical message in an^ equally convincing way, it would not be necessary to lament that the churches are losing their hold upon the people.' What a lesion for us who preach the Gospel? And how suggestive this part of the critic's, estimation of the great singer! And if we knew, the diva's "Christian experience and her method of interpretation,' it would be a revelation as well an interpretation to most of-us. We coiild wish that all our ministers, especially those on the youthful side, with our probationers and students, could hear Dame Clara Butt when these Scriptural items are included in the programme. We can only-wish, but our .wish'is a prayer, that they may have the will and the opportunity."—l am, etc., ' • , ' SYDNEY VISITOR. Ist February. ' , ..