CLASSICAL AND POPULAR MUSIC

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 67, 22 March 1929, Page 10

CLASSICAL AND POPULAR MUSIC

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —"Modern Youth" has headed his letter "Classical and Popular Music." Why quibble? Why not call it good and bad? Nevertheless we should like to know his definition of. the two terms. However, he has misinterpreted our letter. We are not selfish to the extent of demanding good music for the whole session; half an hour each evening would satisfy us, say, a symphony or a quartet. Evidently "Modern Youth," considers we aye Antiquarians. We claim youth—but Modernism never!

"Modern Youth" suggested our perusing the radio programmes of late. We had done so before writing our last letter. We will agree that many of the items bore j the names of great composers, but those items were (in most cases) indifferently performed. If "Modern Youth" infers that to hear some incapable, diabolical tenor howl Verdi, with the lustiness of a modern youth, to be artistry, then he should reconsider the impressions of his youth.- "Modern Youth" may answer lack of competent artists. The answer is gramophone records reproduce excellently. Since the advent of the "Talkies" there is even less scope for our artists, and it is quite probable they may become radio performers. We hope so! Our thanks to "Modern Youth." Fortunately he has not converted us; we appreciate the honesty of his letter.:;. Many thanks, Mr. Editor, for the space allowed us. —We are, etc., G. N, MANN, . .R. L. WATSON, For the Quartet. 22nd March.