Kiwi Concert Party Veteran at Present Visiting West Coast

Grey River Argus, 17 April 1947, Page 6

Kiwi Concert Party Veteran at Present Visiting West Coast

Well-known as a member of the famous Kiwi Concert Party which toured the war zone in the Middle East, and later, New Zealand, Mr. Charles Patterson, radio and dance pianist and teacher, is at present on the West Coast, and will undertake to enrol pupils for learning to play the popular rhythm music which is so eagerly sought after by the younger set. Mr. Patterson will give, free demonstrations in the homes of those who wish to take advantage of his course, and he stated his intention of endeavouring to arrange a free demonstration recital provided that •he can procure a suitable hall and piano for the purpose. Mr. Patterson has pointed out that the actual course (to take a student near to the perfection level) ,is of eight months’ duration, but claims that beginners, after three months of his course—which is part postal and part personal tuition —are able to play popular tunes with abandon. He has at present a large number of students l whom he visits regularly in the company of Mr. Reg. Suckling, who assists him in his work of teaching.

“The course I am undertaking to teach those interested in learning to play the piano,” said Mr. Patterson, “is aimed at cultivating the lighter entertainment side of pianoforte. It is a complete deviation from the classical style, but embodies all the necessary skill which makes the successful rhythm pianist of to-day.” Two of Mr. Patterson’s many pupils are aged 55 years respectively, and the minimum age limit of twelve years has been set to render instruction more compact and expedient for beginners. Mr. Patterson was trained with the famous Frank Hutchins at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, and spent six years in Australia on radio work before the war. He served with the R.N.Z.A.F. and later joined the Kiwi Concert Party as pianist, later still becoming musical director of the party when Mr. Terry Vaughan gave up his services. He studied extensively in England in connection with popular rhythm methods, for many years conducted a regular radio session on 3ZB, and gave several performances over 3YA in the popular “Aces of Rhythm” series. This is his third visit to the West Coast, his previous visits having taken place in the years 1940 and 1942, when the R.N.Z.A.F. Dance Band played for functions at both Hokitika and Greymouth Mr. Patterson will give private lessons to residents of both Westport and Hokitika. Arrangements are by interview, or if he is notified of the address of the person wishing to take advantage of the course, he will travel to the house and conduct the lessons there. He expects to remain on the coast for the next two weeks, and pupils will be notified through these columns when Mr. Patterson’s next visit will take place.