THE CHORAL SOCIETY.

Southland Times, Issue 17697, 8 July 1914, Page 2

THE CHORAL SOCIETY.

To the Editor. Sir,—l have read the correspondence appearing under this heading, and I would like to give my opinion of the matter. The idea of reviving choral work is an excellent one, if done properly. “Act Now’s” latest letter, however, is calculated to harm such a movement. He tells us that the Musical Union, which has given us so many splendid musical feasts in the past, should declare itself non-existent; ho has a conductor ready to recommend, and the conductor must bo an amateur. In my opinion a highly-trained musician is absolutely necessary as conductor of an important choral Society. It is not enough for a man to be able to beat time correctly, and observe expression marks nicely. The deeper his knowledge of choral interpretation; the advanced harmonic and subtle effects of modern composition, the better the results will be. Surely “Act Now” was not thinking when ho wrote. I can predict a short life for his new Society if his ideas are carried out. Another matter, reading between the lines, "Act Now” seems spiteful when ho refers to St. Paul’s choir’s preparation for a big choral concert. I have interviewed the secretary of that choir, and learned that "Elijah” (Part II.), wili oe presented by a large combination of from 80 to 100 voices, most of whom are the best vocalists In the city, ami who certainly "possess the necessary' musical qualifications’’ mentioned by your correspondent,—l am, etc., ACT SENSIBLY. July 7, 1911.