THE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Evening Star, Issue 21709, 2 May 1934, Page 2

THE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

CONCERT TO-NIGHT Tlie programme for to-night’s concert by the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra should assure a “ full house ” in the Concert Chamber, for it indubitably is one of the most interesting and arduous the orchestra lias undertaken in its two seasons; and, moreover, since it is not to be broadcast as usual, there are sure to be many hitherto “ passive ” patrons who will join the active list for the occasion. The authentic centre of the entertainment will be Tschaikowsky’s Symphony No. 4 in F minor, which is a genuine musical tour de force, and a remarkable example of the composer’s felicity in orchestration. Its main theme, based on a simple Russian folk tunc, is elaborated and elevated by his genius into a composition of noble proportion and grandeur. If this piece dominates the first part of the concert, equally do the Wagner selections take pride of place in the second. The selections chosen are ‘ Wotan’s Farewell ’ and ‘ Fire Charm,’ from ‘ Die Walkure,’ and ‘ Forest Murmurs ’ and ‘Siegfried Forging the Sword Notbung.’ Both are replete with the ornate richness that characterises his operas. Other items to he performed are Beethoven’s ‘ Coriolanus ’ overture, 1 Invitation to the Waltz’ (Weber), and some fine excerpts from ‘ Madame Butterfly.’ Signora Aida Bulmas, a dramatic soprano, who comes with a big reputation, will be the vocal soloist. She will sing nr character, and with full orchestral accompaniment, Santuzza’s Romanza from Mascagni’s ‘ Cavalleria Rusticana,’ and the great aria 1 Ritorna Vincitor ’ from ‘Aida.’ The instrumental soloist.- Miss Elvira Wycherley, will play .Bruch’s exquisite transcription for the cello of ‘ Kol Nidrci.’