Concert at St. Joseph's.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVI, Issue 160, 11 July 1904, Page 2

Concert at St. Joseph's.

St, Joseph's Church building was densely packed last night, when, the choir gave a sacrod concert in nid of its funds. No one who attended, however, expected such a musical treat as was provided by the members of the choir and orchestra under tho baton of Mr F. Cornwall. That such an orchestra, existi; in New Plymouth is duo to tho conductor and to Mr Tutschka, who were instrumental in bringing the membors together. The lirst item rendered by the choir, "Gloria'' [Farmers' Mass in B Hat), and most artistically treated. To Mrs Connop, a liew performer here, and tho possesor'of a soprano voico of rare richness and volume, \v n s entrusted tile solo "Ave Marie" (Mascagni), with violin accompaniment by Mr F, Cornwall. This delightful themo was artistically treated, and its rendering showed that the soloist is nn undoubted acquisition to local musical circles. Her second number was "The First Palm Sunday," and in this she was ocjlually successful. Mr Cornwall gave an artistic rendering of the oratorio selection "'Every Valley," the singer being in splendid form, and the solo one that suited him admirably. Miss Hadford's "Dream of Paradise" (Gruy) was a line number, ns also was "Calvary" (Kodm-y), sung by Mr, Deals. Miss Cornwall contributed a vocal number, '-'I Dreamt I was in Heaven," which was well suited to her voice. A violin solo "Elaigia del Nero,' 1 ' gave Mr F, Cornwall nn opportunity for a displuy of technique, tho various difficult passages being interpreted In a masterly style. Tho i item of the evening wus the "Magni- I ficat'' (Hossi), by the orchestra, every movement from the crisp attack to tho end being a treat in Itself, and tho effects of light and sliado capital. Tins was a distinct credit to all concerned. A pleasing number was "O Baluture" (Lambilotto), by tho choir, the phrasing including some very pretty passages. As a concluding number Die orchestra gave tho "March uu Falnibeaux," which was treated in tho same artistic manner as the other selections during the, evening. Tho wish is expressed that the choir may see Its way -to repeat lust night's performance, which a well known gentleman assorted was tho best ho hud heard for twenty yoara past.