MELBA’S GOOD-BYE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 30504, 29 June 1926, Page 3

MELBA’S GOOD-BYE.

GREAT SHOWERS OF ROSES.

London, June 20

Roses, more roses, baskets of them—and these 'after her first song, were showered on Dame Nellie Melba by a great and clamorous audience at her "good-bye” in the Albert Hall. And there was no “last rose of summer” about it. Melba might sing “Addio” as she did, soulfully, almost tearfully, from “Bohetne,” but everybody forgot it was her farewell. She was still as radiant as a rose to everybody, just as full of glory, and, above all, still the Melba who sways multitudes.

The brilliant assemblage gave her a wonderful welcome, and her arms were outstretched, enfolding everybody, even before she sang a note.

Her most brilliant efforts were in “Addio” and in “Ave Maria,” from “Otello.” The former song obviously was a great tes-t of Melba’s emotion, but she sang it with the genius reminiscent of a. score of years ago, and she was given an ovation. Melba threw kisses, but the audience would not be silenced till she sat at the piano and sang “Home, Sweet Home.” The -closing scenes brought the waving of a hundred tiny Australian flags, more “cooees” and cheers —and none more hearty than those from the King’s box, where sat the Australian cricketers. Their welcome as they entered was one of the early events of the evening. After her final encore number, Melba in a very feeling speech said: “My friends and fellow countrymen—because the presence of the cricketers does bring home back to me —I am sorry to go, but I am not going with because you are so loyal and faithful to me. Perhaps there will come another idol—” Voices: No!

Melba: All I ask, my dear, darling public, is that you give mo a passing thought and say, ll \\o loved Melba.”

The rousing climax was the singing of “Aiild Lang Syne” and “She’s a .Jolly Good Fellow” and Melba disappeared after an almost whispered “Good-bye fare thee well.”

The Australian, John Brownlee, achieved instant praise and popularity for his spirited singing of the prologue of “Pagliaeei,” with a full orchestra conducted hv Sir Hemj Wood. Melba had reason to he proud of her pro-tege.