“THE MESSIAH”

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23044, 21 November 1936, Page 19

“THE MESSIAH”

With the advent of the Christmas season the thoughts of the musical public naturally turn to “The Messiah,” the mosUpopular and best-known of the great oratorios, and this vear the Dunedin Choral Society’s rendering of the work, which will be given in the Town Hall on Tuesday next, promises to be the most notable for many years. The enthusiasm displayed by the choir members at rehearsals is a’sure sign of their enjoyment in singing the thrilling choruses, and the standard already attained by them is reported to show that the work has been very thoroughly studied and rehearsed. Probably one of the most interesting features of this coming performance will be to hear the interpretations of Mr Victor Peters, who is to be the guest conductor. Mr Peters is already well known to Dunedin audiences, and it will be a delight to see him once again in action on a local platform. A fine orchestra, under the capable leadership of Mr J. A. Wallace, is now rehearsing, and it should be relied upon to supply the beautiful accompaniments which form such a finishing background to “Messiah ” music. Two soloists vvho will make their debut in “ Messiah ” solos are Mrs N. R. Henderson (soprano), late of Invercargill. and Mr F, G. Taplin (bass). Both these singers have been doing excellent work of late, and will, no doubt handle their arias most artistically. Miss Bertha Rawlinson (contralto) is another excellent choice of the society’s. She is now an experienced artist who is at present at the top of form. The tenor role is to be taken by Mr Alfred Walmsley. His finished singing is always a delight to his listeners, and the society is fortunate in being able to leave the solos in such capable hands. The civic grand organ, played by Dr V. E. Galway. will add to the enjoymenl of the evening. Box plans are advertised.