MUSIC IN THE HOME.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20668, 13 September 1930, Page 9 (Supplement)

MUSIC IN THE HOME.

GRAMOPHONE RECORDS.

HINTS FOR THE WEEK

A high range of quality is contained in this week's suggestions for the homo record collection. In addition to three or four very familiar numbers, there aro also some examples of national music, which are sure to prove interesting. Tho vocal section is headed by two fino bass solos by Fernando Autori. Iho first is the fine " Mephistophclos Serenade," from "Faust," in which the singer displays a magnificent vocal range. On tho reverse side is " La Calunnia,' from " The Barber of Seville," one of the most exacting, and at tho same time, one of the most cntortaining solos in tho realm of opera. Two songs in lighter vein aro contributed by Mario Chamlee, a favourite tenor. They aro tho overpopular "La Donna E Mobile,'' from Verdi's " Rigoletto," and " Soft Beams the Light," a very sweet and attractive melody from Donizetti's opera, " Don Pasquale." Attention is drawn this week to two very fine sacred solos by the English contralto, Phyllis Hudson. The titles are, " There is a Green Hill," and " Nearer, My God, to Thee." Both songs are sung with an orchestral accompaniment, and aro worthy additions to any collection. Tho Edith Lorand Orchestra, which is noted for its sympathetic interpretations of light orchestral music, contributes two enjoyable numbers. The first is " Toreador and Andalouse," a brilliant piece of Spanish music from Rubinstein's " Bal Coutume " Suite. The atmosphere is well sustained, and the use of castanets gives a thoroughly national flavour to tho selection. On tho reverse side of this record is Boccherini's " Minuet," a dainty and attractive piece. " Princo Carol," a Serbian folk song, and a Roumanian traditional air, " Don't Step on My Foot," are two pieces of bright music with a quaint foreign flavour rendered by the Olshanetsky Orchestra.

Rachmaninoff's well-known Prelude in C Sharp Minor, is the outstandng item in the instrumental section. It is given a very spirited rendering by the Polish pianist, Leopold Godowski. On the reverse side of the record are two delightful Chopin studies, known best undor the titles of the " Black Keys," and the " Butterfly."

" Mephiatopheles Serenade" (Gounod).— Fernando Autori (Parlophone AR1001). "La Donna E Mobile " (Verdi).—Mario Chantlco (Brunßwick 15194). " There Is a Green Hill."—Phyllis Hudson (Parlophone A 4103). "Toreador and Andalouso " (Rubinstein). —Edith Lorand Orchestra (Parlophone A 4108).

" Prince Carol."—Olshanetsky's Orchestra (Brunswick 67104). " Prelude in C Sharp Minor" (Rachmaninoff). —Leopold Godowski (Brunswick 15123).

This week's records were supplied by Howies Limited.