GRAND SACRED RECITAL.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2120, 1 July 1907, Page 2

GRAND SACRED RECITAL.

That the public evinced more than ordinary interest in tile sacred recital given by Te liangi Pai (Mrs. Howie), assisted by several vocalists of local prominence, was demonstrate ed by the very large audience whichassembled in the Theatre after church hours on Sunday evening. -Sacred music appeals to many, no less by the beauty and grace of the themes, than the elegant work of the composers, and it must be said at the outset that the programme was tastefully selected, and that the a'udienco was loth to depart when the concert terminated after an hour’s duration.

To Rangi Pai, whoso popularity is well deserved, rendered a number of choice selections in tlie accomplished manner which lias won such warm encomiums in the musical world. Each number was most annreciativoly received. and only Sabbath decorum restrained a demand for tho inevitable encores. “The Lost Chord” (Sullivan) was perhaps the singer’s finest selection, and ip “Avo Alaria” (Mascheroni) her beautiful full mellow notes, and pure cadence, also excited great admiration. The aria, “O Rest in the Lord,” from “Elijah” (Mendelssohn), was a classic in which she was equally convincing. “There is a Green Hill” (Gounod) was marked with a dulcet sweetness and tenderness that fell agreeably on the listener’s ear, and the clarity of tone and enunciation in the simpler composition, “Nearer Aly God to Thee,” was an object lesson to many singers. A charming number was Aliss Fleming’s “Daddy.” Of light and graceful construction, its offect is largely dependent on symxiathotic expression, -and Aliss • Fleming’s rendition was witlf-: out a flaw. Airs. (Dr.) Collins’ contribution was “Jerusalem,” which, nicely interpreted, was appreciated by the audience. Mr. F. J. Teat’s robust resonant voice was admirably suited to his selection, “The AVay of Peace,” and his rendition of Lloyd's fine number was (highly commended. Air. Kissling, jy-W is a. recent acquisition to tlie ranks of our concert performers, proved himself an experienced singer by his able treatment of an exacting piece, “Tlio Great Master.” Air. Cuthbert’s violin obligato in “Ave Alaria” showed skilful execution. Air. Taylor presided at the organ, and accompaniments were played by Airs. Hooper and Air. E. Chrisp. Te Rangi Pai played tbe accompaniment for Airs. Collins.