ENTERTAINMENTS

Evening Post, Volume CXII, Issue 57, 4 September 1926, Page 13

ENTERTAINMENTS

CHALIAPIN.

The enthusiasm with which Feodor Chaliapin has been received shows not only that his genius is quite equal to his reputation, but also that it is of the kind which appeals. Indeed, this could scarcely be otherwise, for the Russian basso simply sways his audiences at will, wherever he sings. His popularity has been won as, the result of the combination of Qualities which together contribute to the general impression he creates. To a voice of surprising richness and wonderful resource he unites dramatic power, and, when occasion demands it, tremendous fervour. The realism of his interpretations of some of the great operatic numbers fires the imagination and excites wonder and _ admiration. Literature, drama, and'music have a mission which is entirely their own. They enrich life, and help to mould character. Music particularly ministers to the higher development of the individual, and its language has rightly been said to be universal. It knows nothing of parochialism. It is entirely international, because it is the expression of life itself, with all its emotions, hopes, aspirations, and fears. Thus it is that when the great musician comes amongst us, whether he be vocalist or indtrumentalist, he is able to make a direct appeal, by means of his art, to the human nature which is everywhere fundamentally the same. Wellington is shortly to have an opportunity of hearing Chaliapin, one of the world's foremost interpreters of life through art. The Wellington concerts will take place at the Grand Opera House on 16th, 18th, and 20th September. The box plans are at The Bristol.