ORCHESTRAL MUSIC

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 20167, 8 June 1928, Page 6

ORCHESTRAL MUSIC

WANGANUI SOCIETY PACKED HOUSE AT LAST NIGHT'S CONCERT. It was gratifying to find a packed house at the Opera House last night, when the eagerly awaited concert by the Wanganui Orchestral Society was presented. This was the first pleasing feature of the entertainment. The second was unstinted satisfaction in the treat that was offered, and much credit reflects on the members of the orchestra who had worked so arduously through the last few weeks to present something worthy of the Society s good name. Under the capable conductorship of Air Will Hutchens the orchestra leaves little open for criticism. . . .. The tone poem, “Finlandia”, (Sibelius) was the introductory number and was masterfully handled. This, the best-known work by Finland’s greatest composer, portrays the country’s national aspirations and strivings against the domination of the old Russ : an regime. “Pizzicati, ” a work of the famous French composer Delibes was a dainty number, while full justice was done to Haydn’s Symphony, “The Military,” which introduces a cheerful and optimistic note. The “Peer Gynt” suite was a delightful choice, the fourth movement “In the hall of the Alountain King” being so well received that it was encored. ‘ 4 Hindu Dance,’’ a selection from the works of Bizet and the “Triumphal Alarch” from Alancinelli’s opera “Cleopatra” were the concluding items. The appearance of Aladame Ailcen Johns on a Wanganui platform was welcomed, in her three songs “Do Not Go Aly Love,” “To Night” and 44 The Spirit Song,” the latter to orchestral accompaniment, she sang charmingly, being the possessor of a swcetlj natural voice. Her encores included “The Quest” and Tosti's 44 Goodbye,” which was sung by special request. Too little was heard of her, and to her is due much credit for the success of the entertainment.