Music Society

At the A.G.M. of the V.U.W. Music Society on Wednesday, 14 March, the programme for 1962 got off to a good start in a relaxed informal atmosphere. The meeting was conducted with wit and aplomb by Professor Page and the retiring President and Secretary, Evelyn Killoh and Robin MacOnie.

These students were replaced respectively by Jenny McLeod and Murray Brown, and were highly commended by the Professor on their excellent leadership during the past two years.

After the close of the meeting, the concert proper commenced with a comparatively impressive performance of the Palestrina "Missa Brevis". "Comparatively", meaning that it was a considerable achievement that a work of this nature could be presented in such a competent manner so early in the year. Warren Bourne, who displayed a knowledge of the idiom but lacked some sense of movement and phrasing, was a capable conductor. It is heartening to find that this choir will continue its existence throughout the year, for it possesses great potential.

Margaret Nielsen, lecturer in the Music Department, gave an authoritative and meaningful performance of Douglas Lilburn's Sonatina for Piano (1946) and delighted the audience with a lively interpretation of the recent "Three Improvisations" by David Farquhar, which were composed (?) especially for her.

A fine student singer, Nelson Wattle (baritone), accompanied by Colleen Rae, provided a change in mood with four songs by Schubert. His artistry is a great asset to Varsity music concerts.

Another student performance was the Beethoven Serenade in D, Op. 8 for String Trio, played competently by Graham Hancox (violin), Bob Tait (viola) and Donald Best (cello). But for a concert following such a long meeting, this work was ill-chosen, particularly as it demands considerable musicianship and is of 25-minute duration. Al though in some places the trio's intonation was faulty, there were other portions of the performance which showed a fine sense of team work.

I am sure that Prof. Page's interest in the new executive will not be unfounded, but students may judge for themselves at the Society's next concert, which will be held on Wednesday, March 28, in the Music Room. A special invitation is extended to all Freshers interested in music and the Music Department.

M.C.B.