WARM TRIBUTES

Evening Star, Issue 22450, 22 September 1936, Page 1

WARM TRIBUTES

LOCAL MUSICIANS PRAISED VISITING PIANIST'S ADMIRATION High praise from a visiting artist whoso opinion is authoritative was bestowed upon the 4YA Symphony Orchestra and its conductor at the conclusion of the broadcasting concert given in the Town Hall last night. A sincere admiration not only lor the playing of the orchestra, but for their gestures of courtesy to a visitor was given by Miss Eileen Joyce, the famous pianist, who played the Cesar Franck 4 Symphonic A'ariations ’ with the orchestra during the evening, and is timely in view of the present attack in the newspaper correspondence columns on the conductor, Mr Gil Dech. and the members of the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra, most of whom played in the 4VA combination last night. “ It was a joy to play with such an orchestra,” said Miss Joyce. 14 They arc all musicians, they arc in tune all the time, and they are obviously so full of enthusiasm and interest in their work. 1 wish f had the time to stay hero and do even better work with them—a Beethoven concerto, for instance. U would not bo by any means beyond them. Air Dech is a first-class musician, and his reading of the variations was sympathetic throughout. I knew that he was following me carefully, and I felt that if I had taken any liberties he would have been with me all the time. Dunedin should bo proud to have such a splendid orchestra. 1 would also like to lei! everybody that the piano in the Town Hall is a magnificent instrument.” Miss Joyce also commented on the courtesies that had been shown her both prior to and during the concert. She was particularly thrilled when she appeared at the first rehearsal on Saturday and all the members of the orchestra stood, she said. This was the first time in Australia or New Zealand that she had received such a salutation, and the members of the orchestra had her utmost respect for the action. Also she considered it extremely thoughtful of Mr Dcch that a miniature piano should bo placed in her dressing room at the Town Hall to permit of her having a final rehearsal before stepping on to the stage. 44 Dunedin has treated me loyally, she added. 44 and T do not think I shall ever forget my visit to tin's city Before 1 came here I was told that Dunedin was the musical centre of New Zealand, and after to-night's experience before such an appreciative audience I can well understand how Dunedin earned that reputation.”