MALE VOICE CHOIR

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIV, Issue 286, 31 October 1934, Page 2

MALE VOICE CHOIR

WANGANUI PARTY’S VISIT. AN IMPRESSIVE CONCERT. Showing splendid precision in attack, and fine tonal quality in the bass section, the Wanganui Male A’oieo Choir very favourably impressed music lovers and critics who formed a large and appreciative audience at tile concert given at the llosco tearooms last evening. AVidelv diversified, tlie programme gave ample scope for colour and expression, and the most was made of tlie opportunity presented in judiciously selected compositions.

Known as one of tlie leading combinations in New Zealand, the choir lias had an unbroken existence of 36 years. It was under the baton of an outstanding conductor in Mr F. AVentworth Slater, A.R.C.0., who, in training choirs in England, has had sixteen first places awarded at as many competitive festivals in which the organisations under his baton competed. Opening with the New Zealand National Anthem, the choir went on to an effective rendering of “Hymn Before Action” (Davies), their singing being full of strength a.nd virility. Organ like tones were produced with success in “An Evening’s Pastorale” (Shaw), a good part song. Burleigh’s negro spiritual “Deep River,” was greatly appreciated. The feature of the choir’s programme was Pmtheroe’s part song “Shadow March.” It was a triumph of training' in its interpretation. Next came the favourite Welsh chorus “Comrades in Arms” (Adam). Equally familiar, but none the less appreciated, was tlie splendid rendering of “Carry Ale Back to Old AOrginny” (arranged by Slater) by a quartette consisting of Messrs G. P. Williamson, L. T. AVhelan and AV. and J. Healey. “Simon the Cellarer” (arr. Newton) was'another delightful part song in which the choir made full use of its tonal qualities and wide range of vocal harmony. The part song “Lull Me to Sleep” (Kidner) was notable for its pianissimo work. The choir’s concluding number was the stirring “Border Ballad” (Alaunder), so dear to the hearts of Scotsmen. The items were a delightful pot-pourri of chorus pieces which showed just what impressive effects the talented combination is capable of producing. Several encores were given. Assisting AVanganui artists were Airs Freda Cunningham, L.A.8., who acted as acemnpaniste and accomplished some difficult work with skill, judgment, and sympathy. The choir was fortunate to have her services m this capacity. Her rendering of the pianoforte solo “Tarantolle” (Chopin) met with warmest approbation. Airs Cunningham recently returned from a concert tour in Australia. Possessing a beautifully modulated contralto voice, Airs Strclla V ills was beard in renditions of “AVhene’er a Snowflake” (Lehmann) and “0 Golden Sun” (Freeliey). Her singing was received with marked popularity and admiration. AATntier of a.voea 1 scholarship at the recent AVellington competitions. Mr Colin Franklin-Brownc revealed that he has a very pleasing tenor wc; in his singing ot “I Heard You Singing” (Cootes) and “A Birthday Song” (AlacFadyen). Alusie lovers in this city must ieel indebted to "■ AVanganui choir and artists for pernrtting them to hear a splendid recital.