A MUSICAL FEAST

Northern Advocate, 22 April 1929, Page 4

A MUSICAL FEAST

MR ARTHUR HIRST’S RECITALLECTURE. TOWN HALL THIS EVENING. A final reminder is given of. the recital-lecture at the Town Hall at 8 o’clock this evening by Mr'Arthuir Hirst F.R.S.A. This event is being eagerly looked forward to, and a large audience is expected. *Mr Hirst, who is paying a flying visit to his native land, is one of the most distinguished musicians of the day, and his presence in Whangarei affords an opportunity for a musical education such as may not occur again, A writer in the Christchurch “Star(’ spoke of Mr Hirst’s recital-lecture as follows: Every seat was taken in Charles Begg and Co.’s recital room at last evening’s delightful lecture and recital, jontitled “The Soul in Music,” by Mr A. Hirst, F.RjS.A. Never in the writer’s experience has an audience been held in such rapt attention by beauty of music and words. Mr Hirst possesses a very comprehensive knowledge of music and composers, and has the wonderful gift of being able to get right behind the composer ’s mind in his interpretation. As a pianist his touch is delightful, and his playing is full of lyric beauty. A very beautful form of compliment w T as paid to this artist, instead of the usual hand clapping everyone standing in recognition of their deep appreciation. . , . ‘

It is hard to describe in mere words the effect Mr Hirst left upon his audience, but we feel, as did the critic of the London “Times'’ when he wrote, “Mr Hirst attempted the impossible, to say what music signifies, and he entirely succeeded. He felt the truth of the music and conveyed that feeling to others.'' It is sincerely hoped that Mr Hirst i will foe able to : pay a return visit -to Christchurch, when we feel sure that ■; the musical public will :risc and ac j • claim him as a .genius, in the same way as he has been receive# through?, out the Continent of Europe.