Battle For Music

This film was not what it was cracked up to be, a great pity for the idea was excellent, that many people could and would appreciate good classical music. Grieg, Beethoven, etc. The final success of the London Philharmonic Orchestra has proved this theory true. Unfortunately the lack of acting knowledge on the part of members of the orchestra gave one the impression of over simplicity and un-naturalness: This vanished as they took up their instruments, then the film became a reality, and here one saw its great possibilities.

The scenic background curiously provoked images of a Greek Tragedy, with lofty pillars giving way to open skies, with curiously contorted clouds. No doubt a genuine artistic attempt to portray the thoughts imagined when listening to classical music! The composers. I am certain, would be flattered! At this stage perhaps I should mention that the film must be regarded as documentary. It has no dramatic appeal, no passionate love scenes, but having only the bare and essential facts. Unless a film fan has a decided liking for classical composers, he or she (or combination) should stay at home (unless the stars have a greater attraction) for disappointment will reign.

The central interest to music lovers in New Zealand will undoubtedly be the conducting of Warwick Braithwaite. His recent appointment is another "feather in his cap" and further proof to faint-hearts that NZ is capable of producing the very best.