ORGAN RECITAL

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 374, 7 June 1928, Page 14

ORGAN RECITAL

MR. BARNETT’S CONCERT Organ solos pleasingly varied with pianoforte and vocal items constituted the very artistic offerings presented under the direction of Mr. Maughan Barnett at the Town Hall last evening. The city organist opened the programme with Bach’s “Prelude and Fugue in E Minor,” following with the dainty and expressive “Andante Cantabile,” from the String Quartet, Opus 11. Another very fine number was Cesar Franck’s stirring “Finale in B flat,” in which the technical pitfalls were surmounted with ease and consummate artistry. The “Berceuse” of Cesar Cui also came in for skilful treatment, its popularity being indicated by a very unanimous recall. A Fantasia by Mr. Barnett based upon national airs was also a very populr item. These variations, it might be mentioned, were played at the West-

minster Hall, London, by Mr. Barnett two years ago. According to the “Musical Times,” on that occasion it “nearly brought down the house,” and would have done so quite had the variations on “The Men of Harlech” come at the end instead of half way through the piece. Last evening his “Men of Harlech” variations provided a brilliant climax, and the audience indicated its appreciation in no uncertain terms. The concluding number, J. A. Meale’s “Scherzo,” was also warmly received. Miss Theo Halpin, who has recently returned from London, provided an excellent performance of Chopin’s “Polonaise in A Flat.” The popular “Liebestraum” of Liszt was also cqntributed and was warmly received Extra numbers had to be given. “Still as the Night” (Bohn) and “A Summer Night” (Goring Thomas) were well suited to Miss Edna Peace’s pleasing contralto, and proved tw’o very popular items. This artist was also compelled to respond with additional numbers. Mr. Leo Whittaker proved an efficient and artistic accompanist.