Fine Concert from Music Society

For their first concert this year, the new committee of the Music Society gathered a pleasing number of polished performances. The evening of Wednesday 28 had few other attractions, and a large audience listened intelligently and had their attention well rewarded. Maurice Quinn, who is one of the few people I know who can make the recorder into a brilliant virtuoso instrument, gave a warmly lyrical performance, quite moving in the slow movements, of a Sonata for Transverse Flute and Harpsichord by Handel. He was accompanied by Murray Brown. Jenny McLeod then presented two pieces for piano of student Gary Mutton. Short, but deliberate, they were impressive, individual statements, of strength and seriousness, sympathetically played.

I was enchanted at the performance at last year's Arts Festival of Haydn's Trio No. 6 in D Major, by Guy Dods (violin), Sue Smith ('cello), and Jenny MeLeod (piano). The same performance next on the programme enchanted me again. In an atmosphere free of tension, these three gifted students played with grace and refinement, recapturing the real spirit of 18th century chamber music. Charming music, played with soul; a delight to hear.

Then, from the Music Room's responsive piano, Robin Maconie drew some strange, ethereal sounds: Bartok's Minor Seconds Major Sevenths, a piece utilising harp-like bell-like, celeste and percussive effects. This was followed by the lyrical counterpoint of Schoenberg's Op 23 prelude, and in bright contrast was the last short piece, Bartok's Ostinato, whose biting rhythms, while reminding one of a circular saw, were still accurately realised.

To finish the advertised programme Prof. Page and Miss Nielsen contributed Ravel's Suite Ma Mere L'Oye for piano duet. Played with an exuberance not usually found amongst professional musicians, the suite made up in great good humour what it lacked in refinement and synchronisation.

Some 40 members of the audience remained after the concert to discuss musical topics over coffee and biscuits. The next Music Society presentation will be a Talk (not a lecture) on Modern Music. This will be on the evening of Thursday, April 12, and will be given by Professor Page. Dissenters are cordially Invited.—R.J.M.