SCOTTISH COMPOSER DEDICATES NUMBER TO DUNEDIN CHOIR

New Zealand Listener, Volume 3, Issue 55, 12 July 1940, Page 12

SCOTTISH COMPOSER DEDICATES NUMBER TO DUNEDIN CHOIR

(From our Dunedin Correspondent) PECIAL interest attached to the presentation of Sir Hugh S. Robertson’s new setting of "There is a Green Hill," by the Royal Dunedin Male Choir on July 8, a recital which was broadcast by Station 4YA. It is a matter of note in itself that a composition by this distinguished composer, who is also conductor of the Glasgow Orpheus Choir, should be presented for the first time in New Zealand by a purely local choir. But the most interesting fact is that the composition was dedicated specially to the choir, in memory of the late John Haggitt, who was one of the most loyal supporters the choir ever had, in addition to being one of its best conductors. The history of the Royal Dunedin Male Choir was told to Sir Hugh by Mr. Haggitt when he visited Scotland a few years ago.. Some months after Mr. Haggitt’s death, Sir Hugh’ wrote to Mrs. Haggitt, telling her that he had arranged a new setting of the hymn, and that, in memory of her husband, he was dedicating it to the choir. Although the manuscript came to hand more than 12 months ago, the choir has not previously performed it. Mrs. Haggitt has given the manuscript to the choir, and has also presented all copies of the music necessary for the full choir to render it. Sir Hugh’s kindliness has been greatly appreciated by the choir, who made the performance worthy of the unique circumstances.