RECORDED MUSIC

Northern Advocate, 7 November 1931, Page 4

RECORDED MUSIC

COLUMBIA New Cesar Franck Recording. Sonata in A major for A’iolin and Piano (Cesar Franck); played by Joan Massia and Blanche Selva on Columbia DOX 209-DOX 212. Contained on four 12-inch Columbia records, this sonata not only ranks as one of the composer 's finest productions, but as one of the greatest works of its kind in the chamber music repertoire. Composed in 1886 and dedicated to Franck's groat friend, Eugene Ysayc, it was first played to the public in a Brussels museum. Owing to the fact that no flights are allowed in the building, and that the work was cet down to come last on a lengthy programme, most of the Sonata had to bo played in complete darkness and from memory. It is full of lovely melody, and of the serene, spiritual atmosphere so characteristic of this groat composer's best work. The two artists have given a notable performance, instinct with true musicianship. Lehar’s New Operetta “The Land Of Smiles.” (1) You Are My Heart's Delight; (2)_Paticntly Smiling; Albert Sandler ami his Orchestra on Coloumbia DO 44.1. Albert Sandler and his Orchestra have provided a very fine edition to the “Land of Smiles'' records already issued on Columbia, by their rendering of the leading air, “You Arc My Heart's Delight'' and “Patiently Smiling'' (introducing “Beneath the Window of My Love''), from this great new Drury Lane play. There is no doubt that this is tho best version yet of these two charming numbers.

Vocal Gems From “The Geisha.” The Geisha—Vocal Gems (Greenbank and Jones); tho Columbia Light Opera Company with Orchestra. Columbia DOX 219. Perhaps the most typical play of the heyday of Daly's musical comedies was “The Geisha,” the airs from which have been hummed and sung ever since its first production some thirty-five years ago. It has just been revived at Daly's Theatre, London, and has renewed tho vigour of its youth. It is a happy coincidence therefore that the* Columbia “vocal gems record of tho month should give ns no less than ton well-known songs from “The Geisha.” And with such obvious spontaneity are the numbers sang, so clearly are the words enunciated, and the whole «o realistically recorded, that this Columbia record will prove a real addition to those records that conjure up happy memories.

Quentin Maclean On The Trocadoro Organ.

Ballad Concert Memories (arr. Macloan); played by Quentin Maclean (cinema organ) on Columbia BOX 217. Since Quentin Maclean became organist ol ! the Trocadoro Cinema, Elephant and Castle, London, a record of the gigantic organ there lias been eagerly awaited. So there will be thousands of Maclean’s admirers to welcome his first record on this instrument on Columbia this month. This selection comprises eight favourites from the days of ballad concerts, and as each air requires different registration, we have a record showing off to the full the wonderful effects and tones of the great organ. The eight ballads are; Off to Philadelphia; Macushla; My Dear Soul; Yeoman’s Wedding Song; A Sergeant of the Line; Love’s Old Sweet Song; Down the Yale, and Glorious Devon. The listener will at once notice the-robust tones, the clear-cut manipulation, the ingenious use of various stops —all of which, together with the magnificent repro-

duction, stamp the record as a new Quentin Maclean masterpiece. William Mac Ewan in Gospel Songs. (1) He Must Reign (Ackley and Miles); (2) March On (Hall and Yale); sung by William Mac Ewan, with violin, organ and chimes. Columbia DO 444. Among the great number of William Mac Ewan records it would be difficult to find more eloquent appeal than is contained in his latest Columbia record. This famous gospel singer, who is conducting a vast singing tour in the north of England, pours all his customary enthusiasm and earnestness into those well-known mission songs, and there will be many new admirers added to thousands of his devotees. Two Novelty Orchestral Items. The London Novelty Orchestra, who have given us some exceptionally fine items in the past, now present on

1 Regal the “ Choristers ’ Waltz” coupled -with the “Dream of Autumn.” Both these numbers are really fascinating, and there is no doubt that everyone will be wanting to secure this record. The number is Eegal 21097. James Melton Now On Eegal. .James Melton, the well-knoAvn tenor, is starring on the Eegal October Supplement 'with two titles, “Beautiful Love” and “Now You’re In My Arms.” The record is Eegal No. 21092. All Melton’s admirers should be very keen to get this record.