DELIGHTFUL CONCERT

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20922, 29 September 1939, Page 7

DELIGHTFUL CONCERT

TWO DISTINGUISHED SINGERS RED CROSS FUNDS BENEFIT A concert (arranged by Mr R. R. Challiner) was given in the Theatre Royal last night on behalf of the funds of the Hamilton branch of the Red Cross Society. There was a large audience, and those present were treated to one of the finest programmes presented m Hamilton for a long time. Particularly notable was the first appearance of two singers of distinction, Mr and Mrs Harvey—Tom a tenor, and Marguerite a mezzocontralto. They are a decided acquisition to local music circles, for rarely are such gifted singers heard in New Zealand. With voices of lovely quality, rare artistry, interpretative gifts out of the ordinary, particularly good diction and a likeable platform manner, these performers became very popular. Last night these two singers covered a wide range in song, and in every branch scored a great success. Mrs Harvey opened with “ O Mio Fernando,” an aria from Donizetti’s 44 La Favorita,” which was given in brilliant fashion, and followed with the charming little lullaby, “Ma Curly-headed Babby the melodious theme air, “ Goin’ Home,” from Dvorak’s “New World Symphony,” and the fine English songs, “ Oh, Peaceful England,” by Edward German, and “ The Blacksmith.” Mr Harvey chose a dramatic aria from “La Tosca,” by Puccini; the very appealing “Eily Aroon,” written by Mary Brett, of Auckland; “Lindy Lou,” that popular negro love song; and “The Portrait,” a fine song by Donandy. Very Enjoyable Duets Mr and Mrs Harvey combined in several duets, which were a joy to music-lovers. These included the negro spirituals, “I Got a Rooe” and “Gospel Train;” “Home to Our Mountains,” from Verdi’s “II Trovatore;” “The Bonny Earl of Moray,” a stirring traditional song of Scotland; the Miserere Scene from “ II Trovatore,” which was given new beauty; and the delightful light opera number, “Trot Here and There,” from “Veronique.” Miss Cecelia McLachlan, a very talented young violinist, gave keen pleasure with her solos, Sarasate (Chopin), “Thais” (Massenet) and “The Bumble Bee” (Rimsky-Kor-sakov), and also provided an effec tive violin obbligato for “Goin’ Home.” The piano duets by Messrs W. Whitehead and Kenneth Martin, introducing some of the popular tunes of a former day, were also very enjoyable. Sympathetic accompaniments were provided by Mrs Harvey, Mrs A. McLachlan and Mr W. Whitehead. Mr H. D. Caro, Mayor of Hamilton, thanked those responsible for the success of the concert, and a very pleasant night came to an end appropriately with the singing ot “Land of Hope and Glory” and the National Anthem by the audience.