PADEREWSKI

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 78, 23 June 1927, Page 15

PADEREWSKI

APPROACHING SEASON Paderewski’s return to the concert platform was hailed throughout the world with remarkable enthusiasm. He was everywhere greeted with warmth and admiration for the work he had done, not for Poland alone, but for the peace and harmony of Europe. Although the great patriot-musician had lost all he had, and his income had come to a complete standstill during the war, his well-known generosity and nobility of purpose dictated another spirited action. Paderewski, wishing to acknowledge his indebtedness to all countries which generously contributed to the relief of Poland druing the war, gave several concerts last year in England, in France, in Italy, and in America, the entire proceeds of which were donated to funds for disabled soldiers. He contributed thus something like £B,OOO to Lord Haig’s fund in Great Britain, and £ 6,000 to the American Legion Fund. The first of these concerts, given at Albert Hall in London on February 17 of last year, was a most memorable event. The huge lzall was packed from floor to ceiling by a wildly enthusiastic audience, headed by the King and Queen, who showed their appreciation of his inspired playing and generosity. Honours were showered on him by prominent educational bodies, and on June 23, 1923, he wasj knighted by King George. But although he is a knight of the Grand Cross of the British Empire, the great musician does not use his title. His personality is far above it and his magical name is so famous and revered throughout the world that beside it all worldly titles pale into insignificance. The medal which was presented to him by the American Legion bears the appropriate inscription: “To Ignace Jan Paderewski, artist, patriot, and humanitarian, with the highest esteem of the American Legion; New York, May 10, 1926.” Paderewski’s tour of New Zealand will open another historical era in the annals of music in this country, for his life and remarkable achievements in music and for humanityv reflect undying credit on the musical world. Paderewski will give but eight recitals in New Zealand, the Auckland dates being June 29 and July 2 and 4. The box plan for preferential booking and ordinary reserves is now open at Lewis R. Eady and Sons, Ltd.