GRAMOPHONE NOTES

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 11 August 1928, Page 9

GRAMOPHONE NOTES

Poetic Prelude by Wagner •“Lohengrin Introduction Act 1.” In two parts (Wagner). Willem Mengelherg eondueting the Concertbouw Orchestra. Columbia 04069.

The orchestra is suited to Wagner’s ethereal and exquisite prelude. The richness of the stringed, the harmony of the wood-wind instruments form a delightful tone colour, and the recording, is good. The hall in which this recording was done is famous for its acoustics, and the result is particularly pleasing. The crescendos gradually reaching fortissimos are marvellously executed in this Wagnerean prelude played by a famous orchestra. Two Gems from “Tosca” -

Fernand Ansseau (tenor), in “Reeondita urnionia” and “E lucean le stelle” (Puccini) (“La Tosca”). _ Fernand Ansseau, the famous Belgian tenor, sings Cavaradossis well-known arias from the first and last act of Puccini’s “Tosca.” The recording realistically brings out the tenor’s fine and resonant voice.—H.M.V. DAB9B.

Waltzes by Strauss (1) “Artists’ Life” (waltz); (2) “Tales from * the Vienna Woods.” Johann Strauss and Symphony Orchestra.

Johann • Strauss should know the works of his father, should possess the real understanding and he able to produce the right atmosphere. That he can do so is proved by this record. Rich in tone this beautiful orchestra gives of its best. Waltzes are not so old fashioned as some people believe. This record will help to awaken renewed interest in old-time waltzing melodies.

An Inimitable Humorist John Henry and “Blossom,” in “The Story of Lady Godiva” (J. Henry), (82485). John Henry’s delightful and simple humour has won him a tremendous following. His “His Master’s Voice” records, which include some of his best pieces, are really funny, all the more funny, perhaps/ because' you never have reason to feel that lie is trying to amuse you. “The Story of Lady Godiva” is one of his most amusing dialogues with “Blossom.” It is a “scream.” Two “Ave Maria” Versions (1) “Ave Maria (Gounod); (2) “Ave Maria” (Mascagni-Weatlierly). Sung by Eileen Castles, soprano. Columbia 02516. *■

Eileen Castles is in great voice in these two songs. Her pure enunciation is wonderful, and the whole performance is greatly enhanced by the violin accompaniment played by that well-known Australian violinist Mowat Carter: The '“Ave Maria” (Mascagni) is ail arrangement from “Cavalleria Rusticana.” The Bird-like Galli-Curci Amelia Galli-Curci (soprano), in Parla! Valse (in Italian) (Arditi) and “The Gypsy and the Bird” (in English) (Benedict), with flute obbligato by C. Barone. There is something very spring-like in Galli-Curci’s record of “The Gypsy and the Bird.” She sings it _ with such extraordinary grace and limpid tone that the performance gives you the impression of thistledown floating on a wayward breeze. On the other side the great prima-donna lias given us a brilliant vocal waltz which affords the singer an effective vehicle for the display of the exceptional agility of her I famous voice. Probably one of the best records. (H.M.V. DA92B).