DON COSSACKS, MEN OF THE HOUR

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17890, 5 July 1926, Page 9

DON COSSACKS, MEN OF THE HOUR

SATURDAY’S CONCERT A WONDERFUL EVENT.

The singing of the Don Cossack Choir at the Theatre Royal on Saturday night will remain with those who listenea to its richness and beauty. It was something delicate, something sublime in purity. Nothing better has been heard in this city. Indeed, it was a revelation in the realm of choir singing. There was no working up to a climax, no indication that the last piece would provide the entertainment for which you paid. One did not sit half-doleful through mediocre numbers, but from the outset the singing was of quality excellent, aiid at once hearts -were captured and held enthralled until the last note of the last piece fading faintly yet clearly, as the distant chime of bells brought down the house in a storm of applause. A collection of religious songs opened the programme. These included “We Praise Thee. O Lord” (Tschaikowskv), “We Bing to Thee” (Rachmaninoff), and “Funeral Song” (LwOwsky). The spirit of reverence in these numbers was sublime. There was fulness of power without semblance of harshness, depth of volume without trace of strain. The fluctuations of sound rose and fell with perfect rhythm and behind all was the unmistakable expression of feeling. It was magnificent and held the listeners spellbound in a charmed world. The mingling of exultation with devotional sincerity in “ Gloria in Excelsis ” was all too wonderful. an interpretation of song almost beyond description. “ Chjuchnjim,” or Song of the Volga Boatmen, was perhaps the best known piece sung during the evening. It was highly popular, and the experience Of hearing an interpretation by such a renowned choir was indeed pleasant. “On the Road to St Petersburg.” a Russian folk song, gave full scqpe for the talent of the choir, and the sentimental nature is delicately portrayed. The basses are responsible for some fine work. The “ Old Don Cossack Song ” (arranged by Kolotslin) is intended to picture the Don Cossacks moving homeward, singing joyfully, and this is a triumph for the interpretative powers of the choir. Another item with a national aspect was, “ Signal March of the Cavalry,” arranged by Kolotslin. The whole march is made up of six cavalry signals, and the precision of the movements is brought to the mind in the rhythm of the song. Great tonal effects were secured in “ The Twelve Robbers,” which is an old monastery legend. It presents fine opportunities for a splendid bass. Several solos are given in the course of the selections, and demonstrate that the choir individually has a high standard. Perfect control marks all the singing. The choir begins at the signal from the conductor, Serge Jaroff, and all through he has the members completely at his command. The Don Cossacks will present another programme to-night.