MELBA TROPHY

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21207, 2 September 1940, Page 6

MELBA TROPHY

WON BY HAMILTONIAN SINGER’S SUCCESS IN SYDNEY Word was received by cable on Saturday night that Mr Keith Priscott, of Hamilton, had won the Melba Memorial Trophy, presented by the late Madame Clara Butt in memory of Australia’s “Queen of Song,” at the Sydney Eisteddfod. Last night Mr Priscott was heard over the air with the other prizewinners at the Eisteddfod. The previous week Mr Priscott won the baritone championship, singing “Where’er You Walk.” This win entitled him to enter for the Melba Trophy contest. The judge, Dr. Arundel Orchard, said of the Hamilton singer in the championship class that he showed great artistic interpretation in his singing. There were many fine voices in the class, but good artistry was essential, and Mr Priscott was the fortunate possessor of that gift, plus a true baritone voice of fine quality. Mr Priscott had an audition with J. C. Williamson, Ltd., and was offered an engagement with its comic opera company, but has decided to continue his studies at Sydney Conservatorium. SUCCESSES AT WELLINGTON At the Wellington Competitions on Saturday Miss Joan Prendergast, ol Hamilton, won the recital in character. There were 14 entries. Miss Prendergast was also awarded Mrs Mustchin’s Challenge Cup for elocution aggregate. Mrs Edna Dearlove, of Te Aroha, was third out of 10 entries in ths negro spiritual class for women.