Ada Crossley’s Concert.

Waikato Argus, Volume XXVI, Issue 4003, 5 February 1909, Page 2

Ada Crossley’s Concert.

There is no doubt that the Town [ Hall will be well filled on Wednesday evening next, when Madame Ada Crossley and her company of distinguished artists give their only concert in Hamilton. A special train has been arranged to bring visitors from Cambridge, returning after the concert. Madame Ada Crossley is universally acknowledged as the world’s greatest contralto, and the company supporting her is recognised to be the finest organisation ever brought together in this part of the world. Never before have Asutralasian audiences had an opportunity to hear so many celebrated artists in one concert. The tenor, Mr John Harrison, is at the very top of his profession in England. Not only is his voice of pure resonant quality, but temperament is an essential part of his equipment, and his method is admirable. When he “lets himself go” on his top notes, the effect is thrilling. Great interest will naturally be centred on the brilliant Australian pianist, Mr Percy Grainger. His success in Europe has been phenomenal. In an interview he stales: “I was twice honoured by commands to play before the Queen. She is very musical. 1 spoke Danish to her, and she dearly loves to speak her native tongue., I have played many concerts with Dr. Dans Richter, the groat conductor. ” Mr Jay Ryan is an Irish baritone of repute. The violinist with the company is M. Leon Sametini, who has been favourably compared with Kubelik. He studied at the Prague Conservatorio at the same time as Marie Hall. His playing created a veritable furore of enthusiasm in both Melbourne and Sydney. Herr Benno Scherck is musical director. Seats can be booked and tickets obtained at Paul’s.