THE “ELIJAH” ORATORIO.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21019, 7 May 1930, Page 12

THE “ELIJAH” ORATORIO.

The really great oratorios ..can be numbered on the fingers. There is no doubt that Mendelssohn’s "Elijah” is one of the greatest. It is an admirable example of the composer’s inspiration in oratorio. It is as richly devotional as it is noble and tuneful_ in melody. This masterpiece is to be given by the Dunedin Choral Society on Tuesday, May 20,' in the Town Hall. *The production of soloists, chorus, - orchestra and the organ may be looked forward to with confidence, for it will be given with _ new force, vividness, heightened exaltation, and its glory Over three months’. hard work has been spent on the chorus of 160 voices under. the yery thorough conductorship of Mr. H. P. Desmoulins. They may be depended upon to sing the opening chorus, “ Help,,; Lord,” with precision and fine effect*. The “ Baal ” choruses will be declaimed with spirit——although chorus, orchestra, and organ, under the capable conductorship of Dr Galway may be depended upon to give the large audience which is sure to assemble a most telling interpretation of a most noble work. ' The soloists are a very good .choice,- viz,. Miss Eva Scott (soprano), Miss Gwehda Burt (alto), Sir Alfred 1 Walmsley (tenor), arid Mr W. Watters (bass). The heavy solo work falls upon the bass, who takes the part of the prophet; but, like the other soloists, Mr Watters is favourably known to chbrak society -audiences. He. is undoubtedly He may 'be depended upon'to Teach the heights of vocal and narrative expression, and--ttf-fiinsr- with sincerity 'add- ■conviction. '