Distinguished 'Cellist

Radio Record, Volume IV, Issue 16, 31 October 1930, Page 8

Distinguished 'Cellist

‘To Broadcast Original Composition ew Zealand’s prominent ’cellists, has written a waltz-his first effort --and it will be played from 2YA on November 7. He has called it "After Sunset." It is a bright little tune and when played by the Orchestrina, for which it has been especially written, should make a very’ presentable item. Mr. Tanner will be appearing sub-: sequently in two further items of particular note. On Monday, No-. vember 24, there will be played under his direction a quartet for four cellos, the artists being Mr. Tanner and three of his advanced pupils. The unusualness of this calls for special notice. It is probably the first time in New Zealand broadcasting history that a ‘cello quartet has been put on the air. The four instruments. ave taking. really, four solo parts. It is certainly the first time this piece -TLachner’s "Serenade’-has been performed in New Zealand, ME. CLAUDE TANNER, one of N

An item of interest on Friday, November 28, is a duet for two ‘cellos by Mr. ‘Tanner and one of his pupils, when "La _ Serenata" by Piatti will be played. Piatti was the greatest "cellist of his day, 40 years ago. He was. professor to Whitehouse, who in turn was professor to Mr. Tanner. In a recent book, "Recollections of a. Violincellist," Mx. Whitehouse. makes interesting. reference to this "Serenata." "JT shall never forget one morning I was quietly sitting at home when Piatti called to see me, and without preamble asked me to play with him at the last .Monday "pop" (popular eoncert of the season, his ‘Serenata’ for two ’cellos. This concert was oft. a special or gala occasion, so I therefore realised the great favour Piatti) ‘showed me, especially as he: insisted on my playing first. ’cello. We re-

hearsed the duet carefully, and it went well at the concert and was received with splendid enthusiasm, Piatti making me go forward to receive the applause, he himself insisting with his wonderful modesty on keeping in the background." Mr. Tanner has had considerable experience as a musician, having studied composition and harmony in Pngland under Stewart McPherson and also on the Continent. He has played in South America and _ in Buenos Aires, and has appeared New York concerts and in with orchestras. -Mr. Tanner hak’ how.ver, concentrated on the former and in this role: he has appeared in New Zealand on many occasions. Listeners will recall his playing of "*Cello Concerto in D Major" (Hadyn) for ‘cello, a difficult but beautiful piece. He has been instrumental in introducing to New Zealand listeners many works that had not been heard in this country before. Whe:. he appears at the Wellington Symphony concert next week he will play the first part of Rossini’s "Overture to William Tell."