SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA.

Evening Star, Issue 22450, 22 September 1936, Page 11

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA.

TO THU EDITOK. Sir, —The letters by “ Opus 1,” “ Tune Up,” and “ Organist ” are virtually a concerted attack upon a i conductor of very high reputation who had no need to act as' “ guest conductor ” of, the Symphony Orchestra in order to enhance that reputation. Following that concert the recognised musical authorities in the city paid some very nice tributes to the conductor. personally regarding the high efficiency of the performance. The world’s best performers welcome criticism when it is justified. In this case it is at least open to question, firstly, whether the critics are competent, and, secondly, whether there is not an unworthy motive behind the letters. The acknowledged reputation gained by the conductor, Mr Gil Dech, definitely ensures possession of all the “ experience and mature judgment ” that are necessary to at least maintain the highest standard ever reached by the Symphony Orchestra, and it is even a safe assumption that it might reach even higher levels were it only possible for it to remain under his control, as he has the personality which makes it a pleasure for any musician to play under his baton. Although a “ strict symphonic programme ” may be given by a Continental orchestra, all of whose members are full-time professional performers, critics should bear in mind that our own excellent musicians have not the benefit of full-time occupation, which, of course, makes it the more creditable that they perform so very well. Just as there are “ symphonic programmes ” and “ programmes that may be performed by a symphony orchestra,” so there are conductors and conductors. Though both the crow and the nightingale are definitely birds, no one would suggest that they have equal singing talent. As the flowers that grow are a source of delight to us, so should music bring us distinctive pleasure.—l am, etc., J. H, Oliver. September 22. TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —Letters of the type signed “Opus 1,” “Organist,’’ and “Tuneup ’’ were only to be expected by those in possession of all the facts incidental to the change over of conductors. The facts are these. The late conductor resigned, and on the acceptance of the resignation the executive, recognising its obligations to the subscribers, and at very short notice, had to make arrangements for the conducting of the remaining concerts of the season. Then the permission of the National Broadcasting Service was courteously given for Mr Gil Dech to act as guest conductor. The executive of the orchestra is naturally grateful, not only to Mr Gil Deoh, but to the National Broadcasting Service for its kindness in this matter. Mr Gil Dech’s reputation and ability are such that he is recognised beyond the shoves of New Zealand as one of the leading light orchestra conductors of the day, ami, what is perhaps of even greater importance, he, by his genial personality, is able to gather around him the best of musicians, who at all times find it a pleasure to be under his baton. On. behalf of the executive of the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra I would like to extend grateful thanks to Mr Dech for his willingness, sti such short notice, to assist us in an awkward situation, and to the members of the orchestra who rallied around him so loyally.—l am, etc., G. J. Errixoton (President). September 22, TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —The letters that appeared in your issues of last Friday and Monday of this week anent the recent concert by the above organisation seem to exude malice and vindictiveness, and to be foreign to a British sense of justice and fair-play. The opinions expressed therein are so obviously at variance with facts that fitting words to describe their authors would hardly be permissible in your correspondence columns.—l am. etc.. September 22. “ Xuff Said.”