A NEW CHOIR Successful Debut Of W.A. Choral Society (By Tactus.”)
The appearance of a new choral organisation in our midst should always be welcomed as another noteworthy stride forward in musical development. Still greater significance may be attached to a debut which brings with it work containing charm and artistry in good measure, as did that of the Western Australian Choral Society, conducted by Arthur Buss at its inaugural concert in the Perth Town Hall last night. The audience was large and appreciative. The choir, with a strength of nearly 70 voices, includes an unusual proportion of young members, and although there was the usual preponderance of the gentler sex and a tenor line of only seven, good balance was maintained. In the points that matter most–intonation, quality, precision, tone-shading and especially soft singing-meritorious results were secured. Good judgment was shown in the avoidance of compositions of magnitude, whilst still maintaining a good musical standard, and it should be added that when lusty climaxes were called for they were secured without force. Arrangements of airs and songs such as “Brother James” (Jacob). “Going Home” (from Dvorak’s “New World” Symphony), “Eriskay Love Lilt” (Kennedy-Fraser), “The Wandering Miller” (from Schubert’s “Die Schone Mullerin” Cycle) and Arne’s “Where the Bee Sucks” abounded in good harmony and were effectively sung. “Blessed Jesu, Fount of Mercy,” a composition in motet style, by Dvorak, Bach’s beautiful chorale, “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” (complete with the oboe obligato, played by Stephanie James). “My Love Dwelt in a Northern Land” (Elgar), “Ave Verum” (Mozart) and “Invocation” (Schumann) were also included in the choir’s presentations. Interludes provided by the associate artists added considerably to the attractiveness of the programme. Songs by Scott, Rachmaninov. Puccini, and Mozart were sung by Irene Stancliffe, instrumental trios by Beethoven and Bridge were played by Noreen Edwards, Wendy Tyler and Joy Edgar, and pianoforte works by Liszt were contributed by Stephanie James. All the accompaniments were efficiently played by Gwyn Brockway.
West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 – 1954), Thursday 13 November 1947, page 8