ADA CROSSLEY'S CONCERT.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 3085, 6 January 1909, Page 6

ADA CROSSLEY'S CONCERT.

The return to Australia of the famous contralto Madame Ada Crossley has been hailed with enthusiasm by music lovers in Melbourne and Svdney, where critics were unanimous in their declarations to the effect that the great contralto's voice has improved since her last tour. It is said that she exhibits a heavier quality than she did five years ago, whilst she still retains the heart reaching sympathy of expression which has made her one of the greatest singers of our day. Her reappearance in Sydney was the signal for an unprecedented outburst of enthusiasm. A critic writes: "The huge auditorium was crowded in every part and the audience's verdict of enthusiasm took the form of more than doubling the spendid programme." Associated with Madame Crossley is a brilliant company of concert artists. Mr John Harrison is said to be the greatest English tenor of the present day. The baritone is Mr Jay Ryan, a recent arrival from Kilkenny. He is said to be the possessor ot an exceptionally fine voice. Since Mr Percy Grainger left here five years ago he has gone right to the front. He is proud of the fact as an Australian of having been selected by Mr Greig for the coveted engagement of solo instrumentalist at the last Leed's Festival, the blue ribbon of his profession. Madame Crossley was fortunate in inducing the brilliant young Dutch violinist M. Leon Sametini, to come with her to Australia. His playing created quite a stir in Sydney, where he was compared favourably with "Kubelik." Positively only the one concert can be given in Masterton. The box plans will be opened on Saturday next at "The Dresden." Day sales can be procured at Miss Rive's.