ORCHESTRAL CONCERT

Wairarapa Times-Age, 28 June 1939, Page 5

ORCHESTRAL CONCERT

Mr C. W. KERRY MAKES HIS BOW AS CONDUCTOR. A SPLENDID ENTERTAINMENT. A particularly happy choice of orchestral items was presented by the Masterton Orchestra in the Opera House last night, when Mr C. W. Kerry made his initial bow to the public of Masterton as conductor of this splendid combination of musicians. Mr Kerry created a very favourable impression and future concerts will be looked forward to with keen anticipation. Last night’s performance by the orchestra was generally good. Mr C. A. Clement, a newcomer to Masterton, made his first appearance here on the concert platform, his vocal contributions being deservedly popular. There was a fairly large attendance of the public.

The orchestra selected for its opening number Haydn’s Symphony in G, more familiarly known as the Military Symphony. This fine tuneful work contains many beautiful passages, culminating in a spirited finale, from the martial character of which it derives its name. “Slumber Song.” by W. 11. Squire, provided a good example of the work of this modern composer. It was a choice item, concluding with a haunting melody played on muted strings. A gay little trifle. “Demoiselle Chic,’’ was quite a bright affair of varying moods. “William Tell.” by Rossini, one of the best-known overtures ever written, was the opening number of the second half of the programme. Once the orchestra got properly started, it revelled in the many moods of this beautiful work —a serene alpine calm, followed by thunder and rain, which gradually passes away and leaves the birds singing gayly once more and finishes with a rollicking movement that sets the feet tapping. The orchestra excelled itself in Moszkowski’s charmingly beautiful Serenade and in Paderewski’s equally attractive Minuet in G. Both these items were particularly well done. The two concluding marches. Cinderella’s Bridal Procession by Decker and “Cornelius” March by Mendelssohn were also melodious numbers of great appeal. They provided a bright and happy conclusion to a splendid programme. Mr Clement possesses a fine baritone voice and his presence is an acquisition to the town. He has an exceptionally clear enunciation and his voice is well suited to the songs he chooses. Last night, his first presentation was "The Bandolero,” which provided a good indication of his capabilities. As an encore he sang "Sea Fever.” In the second half. Mr Clement scored another success with “King Charles” and his encore “ Young Tom o’ Devon was so much enjoyed that he had to respond again. This time he gave the well-known “On the Road to Mandalay.”

At the conclusion of the concert several lady members of Ihe orchestra were presented with bouquets.