“THE HOLY CITY.”

Waikato Times, Volume 106, Issue 17802, 29 August 1929, Page 8

“THE HOLY CITY.”

INSPIRING CANTATA. SOME TALENTED WORK SUBSTANTIAL ADDITION TO FUNDS The well-known oratorio, “ The Holy City,” was interpreted by a group of talented Hamilton artists in St. Paul's Methodist Church last evening. This fine work received excellent treatment and was greatly enjoyed by the large audience. Under the guidance of Mr. T. S. Webster, the choir reached a high standard and was entirely untroubled by the more difficult passages. The blending of voices was well nigh perfect, while the light and shade were admirably caught by the performers. Another favourable feature of the cantata was the solo work, which gave evidence of careful study of the theme. Notable among the solo contributions was “ These Are They Which Came,” a piece admirably suited to the clear lyric soprano of Mrs. V. Clark. Another fine number was Mrs. T. S. Webster’s rendition of “ Come Ye Blessed.” In the air “A New Heaven,” Mr. W. B. L. Williams’ bass was heard to advantage, while the tenor solo, “ To the Lord Our God,” by Mr. K. P. Eade, was outstanding. Other artists who contributed largely to the quartettes and choruses were Mrs. C. Gowanlock and Messrs. D. .Bradley and J. Clark. Miss Lewis and Mesdames Clark and Worm were particularly impressive in the trio, ” At Eventide it Shall be Light.” The duet “ They Shall Hunger no More,” was well interpreted by Mesdames V. Clark and T. S. Webster. Mrs. F. Gadd capably officiated at the piano. In a short miscellaneous programme presented by the same artists, an item of particular merit was the organ and piano duet, “ Bells Across the Meadows,” by Mr.-T. S. Webster and Mrs. Gadd respectively. The organ number, “Butterflies,” by Mr. Webster, was also much appreciated. Mr. Williams’ bass came out well in “A Friend,” and Mr. H. Worm’s rendering of the Toreador Song from “ Carmen,” created a good impression. Mrs. Webster’s rich contralto was heard in “La Serenata," an exceptionally fine number. “ Heart’s Ease,” sung by Mr. Eade in a well-modulated tenor, was also well received. The evening was very successful, and as a result a substantial sum is in hand.to assist the Methodist Church choir funds. SUCCESSFUL BROADCAST. EXCELLENT RECEPTION REPORTED Perfect conditions prevailed last night for the broadcast of the cantata, “ r fhc Holy City,” from St. Paul’s Methodist Church. The broadcast was effected by station IYA, Auckland, and from every point of view was a great success. There was a complete absence of atmospherics, which have been prevalent lately, and have been against good reception. Listeners-in report that every part of the programme was heard very clearly, and without interference. The broadcast was supervised by Mr. J. Ball, editor-announcer of the New Zealand Broadcasting Company. CONGRATULATIONS. TELEGRAM FROM CHRISTCHURCH. The Mayor of Hamilton, Mr. J. R. Fow t , to-day received the following telegram from the general manager of the Broadcasting Company, Mr. A. R. Harris, at Christchurch: “Relay to Auckland and broadcast' from IYA of St. Paul’s Methodist Church Choir was received here most clearly last night, and choir’s rendering of “ The Holy City ” undoubtedly one of the finest presented in New Zealand. Heartily congratulate members of choir and organist, Mr. Webster. “ Your speech was also most interesting and we reciprocate the very kind sentiments you expressed towards the company.” A member of the choir has received the following telegram from a friend in New Plymouth: "Concert enjoyed, reception good.”

Mr Webster lias received a wire from Papatoctoe as follows: “Splendid concert, relay perfect.” Friends in country districts surrounding Hamilton have also forwarded congratulations to Mr Webster in connection with the relay and concert.