REVIVAL IN MUSIC.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20528, 1 April 1930, Page 15

REVIVAL IN MUSIC.

ORCHESTRAL DEVELOPMENT. INDICATIONS IN AUSTRALIA. It seems clear that although the "talkies" killed music in the picture theatres throughout Australia, they did not kill music itself. The position that was created when so many musicians wire thrown out of employment has forced the public to take stock of its musical tastes, and it has been discovered, apparently much to the surprise of many people, that there is a great demand for highclass music. And so it is that professional musicians who arc holding a series of concerts in Sydney for (he support of those \PTTo are in distress have received wonderful support and encouragement.

These musicians have shown remarkable ability—ability that has impressed musicians of the highest note. Professor Bernard Hein/.e, director of music at the Melbourne University, came to Sydney specially to conduct "the last concert," and lie said that the playing should be an attraction, not sympathy for the poverty of the players. Then, "speaking of the dream of all music lovers," a permanent orchestra, he said: "It is impossible to think of the maintenance oi' a fully professional body until there is some guarantee of retaining the players at a reasonable salary. The 25s or so they arc getting from each of the present concerts would not hold body and soul together, and one cannot get t lie best results from a body of musicians who are not assured of sufficient money on which to live.

"VVliat is really wanted in Australian cities are groups of generous-minded citizens who liavo the foresight to recognise in a fine symphony orchestra, not v"'y an organisation for the social and cultural uplift of the people, hut also an organisation that will reflect in tinio to the financial benefit of the country. How many persons ever gave two minutes' thought to such places as Philadelphia, and Minneapolis until these cities gave the world their splendid music? Their orchestras have put them on the map, and at a time such as the present, when Australia needs all the advertising it can get, a good symphony orchestra would be one of tho very best mediums." Prftfessor Hoinzo said ho thought there was a better time coming for music and musicians. Ho said there was a new musical age approaching, and that already peoplo were beginning to accept more purism in music than they used to do. In this direction it is of interest to note that in Sydney, at any rate, pianos are coming into their own again The talkies, it is said, are helping to develop a tasto for music, but the personal touch is being desired.