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Salient: An Organ of Student Opinion at Victoria University, Wellington Vol. 24, No. 6. 1961.

National Orchestra Concert

National Orchestra Concert

The spirited, lively and precise "Scapino Overture of William Walton was the opening item in the first programme of the National Orchestra's 1961 subscription series. It was thrilling. From the first spritely phrase the overture bounced along in zestful fashion, a cheeky version of Till Eulenspiegel. This success was due not only to the? masterful invention and orchestration of the composer himself, but it also owed a great deal to the precision and rhythmic attack of the orchestra.

The stage then emptied drastically, the Finnish bass-baritone Kim Borg entered, and then began the most spiritually rewarding event of the evening, the Bach cantata No. 82, "Ich Habe Glenug." Unfortunately, the beautiful first aria was spoilt by the soloist's throaty singing, and he lacked the repose this music undoubtedly needs. However, the plaintive oboe playing 'of Guy Henderson gave lustre to a rather weak performance.

But half-way through the second aria Borg's voice took on a new richness and the recapitulation of this piece was lovely to hear. From then on he improved tremendously and the last aria was sung with great verve and style, yet still with dignity.

And now, the tour de force. Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition" (orchestrated Ravel) is recognised as being one of the luckiest masterpieces ever written—it hardly ever receives less than a very good performance. Certainly Saturday night's rendition was right up to the mark. The orchestration was revealed in all its colour and vividness, the characterisation and atmosphere of each piece were superbly realised, and virtuosity was revealed in all sections. Particularly notable was the firm, rich brass chording in the opening Promenade, the saxophone ir. "Old Castle," which, after a weak start, added great colour to the lovely muted string tone.

"I am sure you know what I am talking about."——Mr T.

* * *

"There would be no more illegitimate children."—Miss Younger.