MUSICAL ACTIVITY

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 264, 7 November 1936, Page 10

MUSICAL ACTIVITY

REVIVAL IN AUSTRALIA I I “FLESH AND BLOOD” ARTISTS j NEW ZEALANDER’S OBSERVA- i TIONS. (Per Press Association] WELLINGTON, Nov. 6. A remarkable musical activity in Australia was noted by Mr. L. E. Strachan, secretary to the Wellington Symphony Orchestra, who returned to-day by the Awatea after investigating broadcasting conditions in Ihe Commonwealth. According to the best-informed musical authorities in Australia, said Mr. Strachan, there had never been such musical activity, such interest among young people, or such audiences for the best type of music., There was no doubt that the amateur music-maker was coming into his own again. Through his own desire. The day appeared to be over, however, for 1 the “amateur-professional,” the amateur who sought to augment his income with music. Mr. Strachan spent some time with Mr. Aired Hill, who hopes to visit the Dominion early in the coming year. A big change was taking place in the type of broadcast entertainment favoured by listeners. Mr. Strachan said Whereas, until comparatively recently, 75 per cent, of the programmes consisted of recorded matter. it appeared almost certain that before long the position would be reversed and “flesh and blood” talent would provide 75 per cent, of the programmes. There was a definite and growing demand for more musical entertainment. Radio had been overdone and the public were tiring of them.