CLASSIC CONCERT

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 717, 17 July 1929, Page 7

CLASSIC CONCERT

PUCCINI MUSICAL SOCIETY’S PERFORMANCE Classic gems from some of the world’s best music were heard in the Town Hall Concert Chamber last evening, when the Puccini Musical Society gave its second concert. The “Sanctas,” from Gounod’s "Messe Solennelle” was the best concerted item of the performance. Here the devotional strains were sung by the choir with fervour, yet not omitting the distinctions required in tho more modified passages, and the wellbalanced tone gkve the true “Sanctus” effect. As the soloist, Mr. V. Mulgan covered his various passages with fine interpretation. Chief among the soloists were Miss Iv. O’Leary (.pianoforte), Miss D. Jenkins (soprano lirico), and Mr. J. do Montalk (basso cantante). Miss O'Leary gave a brilliant rendering of Saint Saens’ “Taccato Xo. 6.” Her execution was superb and she played with the fire of vigour demanded by that number. Her encore item displayed her ability to play a dainty littlo “pastorale” with equal ability. Miss Jenkins sang “La Mamma Morta” from Giordano’s “Andrea Chevier” with soulful interpretation, the requisite fire being heard in the stronger passages. She sings with great depth of feeling. Mr. de Montalk’s basso was heard to good effect in “Pu Dio che Disse,” from Appollani’s “L’Ebreo,” and other numbers. His renderings were marked by fine bass fullness and appreciative interpretation. Other concerted numbers of note were the “Grand Preghiera,” from “Cavalleria Rusticana,” and “Ave Maria” (Vittoria 1608). Items revealing a high standard of work were also given by other members of the society. Signor Costantini (II Maestro) held the baton, and at the conclusion of the performance was presented with a laurel wreath by Mr. R. C. Bayertz on behalf of the members of the society as a mark of their appreciation of his untiring efforts as their musical leader.