Hutt Valley Choral Society.

Hutt News, Volume 1, Issue 14, 7 October 1927, Page 3

Hutt Valley Choral Society.

"Metropolitan status must be given the Hutt Valley Choral Society on its concert last evening. In fact, it would be hard to find its equal even in the main centres of the Dominion. One cannot be too enthusiastic over the achievements so far or too exuberant over the possibilities of this happy band of musicians so ably led by Mr. Douglas Tayler. Should the choir be able to enrol a few more men it will have balance and blend that will be difficult to equal. Body and quality are already there, and young voices in the Hutt should realise the value of choir singing under an able conductor." In these terms the musical critic of the "Evening Post" commenced his report on the second concert of the season, given by the Choral Society in King George Theatre on Tuesday evening of last week. For the Society to earn such praise and prophecy is surely to convince residents in the Hutt Valley that we now have a musical institution which is entitled to honour even in its own country, and which should be regarded as a valuable asset on the artistic side of the life of our fast-growing suburb. It is quite opportune for new members to join the Society at once so as to have the benefit of all the rehearsals for the third concert which is to be held early in December. Of the concert itself we can speak only in terms of the highest praise. It was indeed a wonderful evening of music. The singing of the part-songs (unaccompanied) by the choir was true in blend and expression, and the tonal effects were most pleasing. We heard the pianissimo which is admittedly rare in concerted singing, and is therefore prized when we hear it. The high-lights of the programme, however, were the soloists, than whom it would be difficult, if not impossible, to gather on the platform at Lower Hutt a more notable trio. To local residents the appearance of Miss Ella Benbow was a source of special satisfaction, for Miss Benbow lives and works in Lower Hutt, and her work at the Bechstein grand piano (kindly lent for the occasion by Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Ewen) amply demonstrated the superlative quality of the musical talent which is now amongst us. Mr. George Ellwood and his 'cello have brought such beautiful music to thousands in New Zealand and abroad that it was no surprise that he gave another finished performance on the instrument which is such a general favourite with music-lovers. Then the appearance of Miss Daisy Hall (coloratura soprano) added another distinction to the concert which may well render the occasion historical. Miss Hall is a New Zealander whose vocal gifts are recognised in that centre of grand opera, Milan, and it was, therefore, a privilege for the Hutt Valley to hear in their own district a singer who is already notable and will undoubtedly be world-famous in the years to come. Her singing was flawless and was received frith the greatest enthusiasm. Altogether it was a notable concert, and we congratulate Mr. Douglas Tayler, the Committee, and the Society upon then* successful effort.