MISS EILEEN JOYCE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22987, 16 September 1936, Page 3

MISS EILEEN JOYCE

FORTHCOMING RECITAL The world-famous pianist, Miss Eileen Joyce, who is under engagement to the National Broadcasting Service, will give a recital in the Town Hall on Monday evening next. Miss Joyce will play " Symphonic Variations" (Cesar Franck), accompanied by the 4YA Orchestra of 40' players, conducted by Mr Gil Dech. According to Vincent D'lndy, the variations stand midway between the "Prelude, Chorale, and Fugue" and the "Prelude, Aria, and Finale " for pianoforte. He remarks that this work is in continuation and amplification of the form which Beethoven began with such a master hand. The work was first performed at a concert of the Societe Nationale de Musique, Paris, on May 1, 1885. The tune which forms the basis of the whole piece falls into several sections, expressing feelings of tenderness, mysticism, and exaltation. The five variations, in which the piano and orchestra carry on a wonderful dialogue of comment upon this theme, are not of the clear-cut variation style, but, as the word " symphonic " implies, are fairly elaborate (though quite clear), dignified, and of considerable depth of emotional expression. A powerful little phrase is thrown out by the orchestra, the pianoforte answers with a quiet one; the two parties discuss the matter for a while, then the time changes to three-in-a-bar, and the strings pluck out a portion of the main tune for the,variations. But the pianoforte interferes, expounds its opening idea further, and brings in the orchestra for still more discussion. All this does not take long. After a climax, the pianoforte gives out the tune for variations—a lovely calm melody. The orchestra joins in, and afterwards come the variations. Mr Wilfred Kershaw (bass), Mrs Clarice Drake (accompanist), and the 4YA Orchestra will assist in the programe. There will be special concessions to students and pupils of parties of five or more, and seats at 3s and 2s can be reserved free at Bcgg's.