GIRL VIOLINIST

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23137, 8 September 1938, Page 5

GIRL VIOLINIST

AUSTRALIAN TOUR MUSICAL ANCESTRY A WISH FULFILLED A 19-vear-old violinist who made her first appearance on the concert platform with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at the ago of four, is Miss Guila Buttabo, who arrived recently in Sydney. Miss Bnttabo's talent is inherited from a long line of musical ancestors on her mother's side, one of whom was a court violinist to an Emperor of Austria. Her father also is a violinist.

At the ago of 10 she mado a recital tour through the United States, and in 19.'U left for Europe with the intention of giving 30 recitals and staying away about n'ight weeks. She stayed for four years and in her first season abroad gave 75 concerts, having played in practically every European capital except Moscow. She speaks German, Italian and French.

The story of how Miss Buttabo acquired the valuable Guarnerius del Jesu violin which she took with her to Australia is interesting, as it concerns Dr. Malcolm Sargent, with whom she is appearing there. '.l he violin, a twin to the one in tho possession of Jascha Heifet/., was lent to her for a recital when she was in London in 1931. She was anxious to buy it, but was unable to afford it. One evening, at a dinner given by Baroness Uavensdale, the violin was mentioned, and a friend told Dr. Malcolm Sargent, who was present at the dinner, how much Miss Buttabo wished to own it. He spoke to the Baroness Ravensdale, and before tho dinner was over she had promised to give Miss Buttabo the violin.