ROYAL ARTILLERY BAND. '

Press, Volume XLIX, Issue 14834, 27 November 1913, Page 3

ROYAL ARTILLERY BAND. '

FAREWELL CONCERT

The matineo of the Artillery Band, at King Edward Barracks, yesterday afternoon, afforded the unusual spectacle of another crowded house in broau daylight, with a remarkably" strong muster of men to boot, and our visitors were elated at the quite unexpected interest excited by their concerts in Christchurch. We are inclined to place their second, performance even higher than the previous one, largely on account of those works chosen for it, which brought into greater prominence the merits of the fine body of men who handled the wood-wind. It is more satisfactory variety of tone-colour available that justifies the adoption of the military band combination, in preference to the brass band pure and simple; and whore, in the full scoring for grand orchestra, the wood instruments are highly favoured, the transcription gains proportionately, under the hands of the military band. Their playing yesterday of Weber's lovely overture to "Oberon" stands thus in the first rank among their productions, for beauty in interpretation, for refinement in tone, ami nearest approach to the original with regard to tonal- contrast and variation. For similar reasons the Hungarian Rhapsody No. 1, by Liszt, must be regarded as a fine piece of work, especially on the part of the wood. But there was added also, in characteristic execution, the charm of its erratic rythms and tempi. Verdi's "Aida" selection placed likewise tho two sections of tho band on a more equal footing. There was given a spirited reading of Elgar's "Pomp and Circumstance," as well as of tho "Tannhiiuser" number, and in the adaptation of the Mcnuet by Paderewski tho cadenzas of tho solo clarinetist, Corporal were quite a feature. A grand cluster of wood-wind players they all were, to be sure. In yesterday's list tho harp was .omitted; its manipulator deserves to be remembered after this matinee performance. As an encore number the "Chimes of Weymouth." with the realistic imitation, pleased greatly. "La Rcino do Saba," by Gounod, a valse of Titto Mattel's, and one of Scharwenkn's "Polish Dances" filled the programme, with much ability shown in their presentation. •Mγ E. C. iStretton, the bandmaster, in turn inspired, coaxed, stabbea, strengthened, and held up the finger of scorn, as before. The great audience recognised that what they heard was of superior order; peculiar to the vast building, the hearty " applause came to the front in sections, clearly divided; right from the back it seemed miles away. Should, in course of time, the Royal Artillery Band return to our city, they may be sure of a cordial welcome and tangible proofs thereof.

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