Hamilton.

Waikato Times, Volume XXIV, Issue 1963, 5 February 1885, Page 2

Hamilton.

Mh Ralph Hood's concert took place in the above hall last evening before a fashionable and highly appreciative audience, and without a doubt wan a great success, both artistically and financially. The programme was one which is rarely seen in the Waikato. The concert opened with B<«lfe'n trio, "Thro' the World," beiutifully given by Mrs Revitt, Miss Stephsnsou and Mr S. R. Keesing. The voices were equally balanced, and the effect wax good. Mr« Kewtt sang two songs, "(Jood Night Beloved" and " Welcome Pretty Primrose," in a highly artistic manner, the latter securing for her a rapturmis encore, to whicli she responded. Her voice is one of great compass and power. Mihs Stephen.son truly entr.tnced the audience with her rendition of Tour's tasteful romance, "Swret Mignonette "and Reichhardt's, " Love's Request." Shu was greeted with a bliow or <if bouquet*, and both songs were encored. Mr S. R. Keeping, who was in excellent voice, g.vve a fine bravura, " My Life for Thee" (»S. Adams), and the naive song, " Pierrot,'' in splendid style. He possesses a beautiful rich-toned baritone, which cannot fail to ple.ise. Both .soups were enthusiastically received. We have, of couise, reserved Mr Ralph Hood's performance for special mention. Of all the laudatory things that have appeared in the critiques of his performances, none could uxaggorata in praise of them. Mr Ralph Hood, in execution, expression, power and brilliancy, surpasses anyone ever heard in Waikato, ana conquer*) enormous difficulties of technique with consummate ease and skill. He seems equal to every style, appearing to advantage both in pieces demanding great execution, and those soft, exquisitely delicate morceaux which serve as a contrast to his vigorous style. And in one so young this is .simply astounding. He can truly lm termed phenomenal. He gave four pieces faultlessly. Prudont's "(iiundu Fantasia Drainatique," (lottschalk's " Kspieglerie " Rubennteni's "Impromptu" and "T.uantello," and a grand fantasia on " Irish Airs." Miss Misscn (pupil of Ralph Hood), gave signs of great prouiiso in her pianoforte selection, which she played in a graceful and expressive manner. To-night at Cambridge, the company will perform in the Public Hall. Mr Hood will again use his beautiful toned piano. A great number of Hamilton people have signified their intention of being present at Cambridge, to again hear this wonderful pianist. 13y request the ewncert will conclude with a dance.