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Musical Courier 1892-03-09: Vol 24 Iss 629, 1892
119 lines. Read by computer on 19 September 2026, twice; the two readings disagreed in places. Printed page 15. See the scan on archive.org.
1THE MUSICAL COURIER.
3Providence Music.
4PROVIDENCE, R. I., February 27.
5A REVIEW of the past month presents a formidable array of musical events, from which I will extract those which seem to be of greatest local or general interest.
6The admirable Kneisel Quartet gave us one of its enjoyable evenings of chamber music on February 2. The program for the quartet was Ditte- tersdorf's quartet in E flat—a charming number, Beethoven's quartet in G, No. 18, and the andante from Tchaikowsky's quartet in D. Between these came a group of solos for the violin and another for the 'cello, both of which were rendered in a thoroughly finished and artistic manner by Messrs. Kneisel and Schroeder. one of two readings
7The admirable Kneisel Quartet gave us one of its enjoyable evenings of chamber music on February 2. The program for the quartet was Dittersdorf's quartet in E flat—a charming number, Beethoven's quartet in G, No. 18, and the andante from Tchaikowsky's quartet in D. Between these came a group of solos for the violin and another for the 'cello, both of which were rendered in a thoroughly finished and artistic manner by Messrs. Kneisel and Schroeder. one of two readings
8February 3 was the date of Mr. Hans Schneider's third piano recital. The program was devoted entirely to Beethoven, the selections being arranged in chronological order and ranging from his very earliest to his latest compositions. Deserving of special mention were the trio (op. 1, No. 3) for violin, 'cello and piano, excellently played by Messrs. Foster, Wehrin and Schneider, and a thoroughly sympathetic rendering of that greatest of all love songs, "Adelaide," by Mr. Walter J. Towne. Besides the gentlemen named Mr. Schneider had the assistance of several of his advanced pupils, and himself filled the rôle of lecturer as well as performer, prefacing many of the numbers with remarks of a biographical or analytical character.
9Another interesting piano recital was that given by Mr. Clarence G. Hamilton on February 9. The artists assisting were Mrs. W. F. Hascall and Mr. Arthur Foote, of Boston. Mr. Hamilton is one of the most talented young musicians we have among us, and played his program—which embraced about every variety of piano classics except Liszt—in a way which left little to criticise. Conspicuously good were Beethoven's concerto, No. 8, to which Mr. Foote furnished the orchestral accompaniment at a second piano, a polonaise and a nocturne of Chopin and a charming etude (unpublished) by Arthur Foote. Mrs. Hascall's selections were the aria "As when the dove," from Handel's "Acis and Galatea," and two song groups, one in German and the other in English. All were given with thorough intelligence and expression, displayed through the medium of a well cultivated voice and enhanced by the superb accompaniments furnished by Mr. Foote. The audience was a flattering one, both in point of numbers and appreciative recognition.
10The third and final concert for this season by the New York Symphony Orchestra was given February 17. Mendelssohn's "Midsummer Night's Dream" music was given entire, with the assistance of Mr. George Riddle, reader, and a selected chorus of fifty women's voices from the Arion Club. The orchestra played the familiar "Wedding March" in splendid style, and the other numbers were for the most part smoothly rendered. The lovely nocturne, however, with its dreamy melody, was spoiled (for me, at least) by the rigid, unyielding and too rapid tempo which Mr. Damrosch maintained from start to finish. The ladies' chorus performed their share acceptably, and the incidental solos were cared for by Misses Moulton and Shuman, two young pupils of Jules Jordan, who acquitted themselves well, though somewhat overweighted by the unwonted task of singing with a large orchestra. Not the least enjoyable part of the entertainment was the rare skill with which Mr. Riddle individualized his character, and the superb elocution he brought to the elucidation of shakespeare's text.
11The Arion Club gave the second concert of its twelfth season on the 23d, returning on this occasion to their former custom of making their winter concert an offering of the lighter style of music by way of contrast to the more serious works they usually produce at the beginning and end of the season. The following program was given:
12"Ballad of a Knight and his Daughter"………….H. W. Parker
13Solo and chorus.
14"The Lady of Shallot"………………………..Bendal
15Soprano Solo and Female Chorus.
16Song, "Re del Cielo"………………………..Meyerbeer
17Mr. Towne.
18"The Woodland Angelus"………………………Dvorak
19Mixed Chorus.
20Song, "Charity"……………………………..Faure
21Mr. Clifford.
22"The Bells of St. Michael's Tower"…………..Stewart
23Mixed Chorus.
24"Might Love be Bought"………………………Hadley
25Songs…….."Herbstgefühl"……………………Nevin
26"One Spring Morning"………………………..Nevin
27Miss Clarke.
28"Under Blossoming Branches"…………………Meyer-Helmund
29Mixed Chorus.
30"The Cloud Capped Towers"…………………..Stevens
31"A Finland Love Song"……………………….Hiles
32Mixed Chorus.
33"King Olaf's Christmas"……………………..Dudley Buck one of two readings
34"King Olaf's Christmas"………………………Dudley Buck one of two readings
35Solo and Male Chorus.
36Songs……"Veilchen Frene Dich Mit Mir"……Ries one of two readings
37Songs……"Veilchen Frene Dich Mit Mir"……..Ries one of two readings
38"Die blauen Frühlingsaugen"……………….Ries one of two readings
39"Die blauen Frühlingsaugen"………………..Ries one of two readings
40Miss Clarke.
41"Sunset"…………………………………….Gade
42Mixed Chorus.
43Soloists, Miss Annabelle Clarke, soprano; Mr. Edward C. Towne, tenor; Mr. Thomas E. Clifford, baritone.
44The chorus, though somewhat short of men, exhibited the well blended ensemble, beautiful tone, accurate shading and subtle finesse in unaccompanied singing which they long ago acquired under Mr. Jordan's skillful leadership. Especially good were Sir R. P. Stewart's five part arrangement of the jolly old English glee, Meyer-Helmund's delightful part song, the pretty setting for women's voices of Tennyson's familiar poem and Dudley Buck's stirring male voice ballad. The soloists were all acceptable. Mr. Towne in particular was warmly received on account of his long connection with musical circles here, which he severed last fall to accept the position of solo tenor of Harry Rowe Shelley's choir in Brook- lyn. Miss Clarke and Mr. Clifford, both of Boston, made their first appearance here, but quickly made themselves known as accomplished artists. The audience was a large one—a matter of course at an Arion concert. one of two readings
45The chorus, though somewhat short of men, exhibited the well blended ensemble, beautiful tone, accurate shading and subtle finesse in unaccompanied singing which they long ago acquired under Mr. Jordan's skillful leadership. Especially good were Sir R. P. Stewart's five part arrangement of the jolly old English glee, Meyer-Helmund's delightful part song, the pretty setting for women's voices of Tennyson's familiar poem and Dudley Buck's stirring male voice ballad. The soloists were all acceptable. Mr. Towne in particular was warmly received on account of his long connection with musical circles here, which he severed last fall to accept the position of solo tenor of Harry Rowe Shelley's choir in Brooklyn. Miss Clarke and Mr. Clifford, both of Boston, made their first appearance here, but quickly made themselves known as accomplished artists. The audience was a large one—a matter of course at an Arion concert. one of two readings
46Infantry Hall was packed to its doors again on the following night, the occasion being the second—and farewell—appearance of Paderewski. His program presented for its principal numbers Beethoven's Sonata Appassionata and Liszt's twelfth rhapsody. To these were added his own cracovienne and minuet, a group of Chopin pieces and two or three arrangements.
47As it was known that he would play in Boston that same afternoon some fears were entertained that he would come here more or less fatigued and unable to repeat the wonders with which he overwhelmed us two months ago. Quite the contrary took place. Perhaps he received inspiration from the tremendous audience (he had but little more than half a house before) or possibly the somewhat weightier character of his program, or both together, might account for it. Whatever the "perhaps," the fact is that he played with far more of massive effect and startling bravura than at his first appearance, while abating nothing of the rare singing tone, the remarkable pianissimo, the crystal scales, the graceful phrasing and, in short, the whole wondrous versatility that stamps the man as sui generis.
48After this, Rubinstein me no Rubinstein; I have heard one greater even than he.
49Notwithstanding the double labor performed that day, Mr. Paderewski's amiability extended to the granting of two encores, his own quaintly old-fashioned and thoroughly charming minuet being one of the pieces selected, as before, for special recognition. And that, by the way, was the only number which appeared on the other program, a new menu being given throughout.
50So enthusiastic a reception was given the great pianist that I understand that the local manager is endeavoring to secure another return date.
51WM. A. POTTER.
53Ann Arbor Music.
54ANN ARBOR, Mich., February 26, 1892.
55THIS month has been an eventful one musically, for the University Musical Society on February 12 and 15 presented two of the finest concerts ever heard in the State. The University Choral Union of 240 voices gave a fine program for their first choral concert, and chorus, orchestra and soloists did magnificent work. Mrs. Geneva John- stone-Bishop is a great favorite and sang the solos in Bruch's "Fair Ellen," "Flight into Egypt," and "Gallia" superbly. Mr. Max Heinrich aroused the large audience into the wildest enthusiasm by his artistic singing. He sang a group of songs and solos in "Fair Ellen," Foote's "Wreck of the Hesperus," and Grieg's "Discovery." one of two readings
56THIS month has been an eventful one musically, for the University Musical Society on February 12 and 15 presented two of the finest concerts ever heard in the State. The University Choral Union of 240 voices gave a fine program for their first choral concert, and chorus, orchestra and soloists did magnificent work. Mrs. Geneva Johnstone-Bishop is a great favorite and sang the solos in Bruch's "Fair Ellen," "Flight into Egypt," and "Gallia" superbly. Mr. Max Heinrich aroused the large audience into the wildest enthusiasm by his artistic singing. He sang a group of songs and solos in "Fair Ellen," Foote's "Wreck of the Hesperus," and Grieg's "Discovery." one of two readings
57The Choral Union is admittedly the finest chorus in Michigan, and proposes Berlioz's "Faust" for its last concert. The Boston Symphony Or- chestra plays here on May 9, and this concert is looked forward to with high expectation, for Mr. Nikisch always gives us one of the choicest pro- grams on the Western tour. Paderewski played on February 15 to an audience of 2,500. To say that he was enthusiastically received is to put it mildly. In university circles are many excellent judges of music, and it is the universal testimony that such playing was never before heard in University Hall, and all are hoping that he may come next year again. one of two readings
58The Choral Union is admittedly the finest chorus in Michigan, and proposes Berlioz's "Faust" for its last concert. The Boston Symphony Orchestra plays here on May 9, and this concert is looked forward to with high expectation, for Mr. Nikisch always gives us one of the choicest programs on the Western tour. Paderewski played on February 15 to an audience of 2,500. To say that he was enthusiastically received is to put it mildly. In university circles are many excellent judges of music, and it is the universal testimony that such playing was never before heard in University Hall, and all are hoping that he may come next year again. one of two readings
60Cleveland Music.
61FEBRUARY 29, 1892.
62THE third Philharmonic concert last Tuesday evening showed, like the last, an improvement to a considerable extent over those which preceded it. Both in the work viewed as a whole and in the details of the several numbers there was apparent the same steady (which is the sure) advancement in unity of attack and precision of movement in force and delicacy of expression which have characterized these concerns for the past three seasons. Let it be said, too, that there was a better attendance than I have seen at one of these for some time, though I am unable to decide whether this was on account of the growing interest of the citizens of Cleveland in their home organization or because of the favorable weather on the evening in question.
63The following were the orchestral numbers:
64Coronation March…………………………….J. Svendsen
65Symphony No. 13, G major (B. & H. ed.)………….J. Haydn
66Vorspiel, "The Flying Dutchman"…………………R. Wagner
67Adagio from E flat major quartet, op. 13………….F. Schubert
68"Forget Me Not" (intermezzo)……………………Allan Macbeth
69String Orchestra.
70Slavonic Dances (second series)…………………A. Dvorak
71Such was the universally good character of the evening's work that it is difficult to single out any particular number as being the best. Probably the most praiseworthy work, even if not producing the most striking result, was done on the Wagner Vorspiel, but unfortunately the rendition was marred near the close by a badly tuned harp, which had the effect of detracting from the previously formed opinion of excellence. The inter- mezzo was repeated, and the closing number, in its four varying move- ments, was given in a manner to satisfy the most exacting. one of two readings
72Such was the universally good character of the evening's work that it is difficult to single out any particular number as being the best. Probably the most praiseworthy work, even if not producing the most striking result, was done on the Wagner Vorspiel, but unfortunately the rendition was marred near the close by a badly tuned harp, which had the effect of detracting from the previously formed opinion of excellence. The intermezzo was repeated, and the closing number, in its four varying movements, was given in a manner to satisfy the most exacting. one of two readings
73Mrs. Anna Burch was the soloist, and to say that she pleased the audience would be a very mild way of expressing the enthusiasm and genuine appreciation shown. She gave one selection with orchestra, Mendelssohn's "Infeice," in which the efforts of both soloist and players produced so impressive a result that Mrs. Burch was obliged, after bowing acknowledgments thrice, to respond with a second number. Special mention should be made of the orchestral work in the Mendelssohn number. I understand that the soloist herself was highly pleased with it. Her second program number was Wickele's "Heart's Springtime" and Mozzikowski's "Lullaby," and the result was a repetition of her first success. one of two readings
74Mrs. Anna Burch was the soloist, and to say that she pleased the audience would be a very mild way of expressing the enthusiasm and genuine appreciation shown. She gave one selection with orchestra, Mendelssohn's "Infeice," in which the efforts of both soloist and players produced so impressive a result that Mrs. Burch was obliged, after bowing acknowledgments thrice, to respond with a second number. Special mention should be made of the orchestral work in the Mendelssohn number. I understand that the soloist herself was highly pleased with it. Her second program number was Wickele's "Heart's Springtime" and Moszkowski's "Lullaby," and the result was a repetition of her first success. one of two readings
75It should be said, out of compliment to the audiences attending these concerts, that they are the only ones which seem sufficiently interested in the entertainment to remain until its close.
76This week will be a notable one for Cleveland, bringing Paderewski. It remains to be seen how the people will throng to hear him.
77We are also promised another treat soon, an artists' concert, to be given by Cleveland musicians solely. This is an exceeding rarity and is looked forward to with much interest.
78C.
80Music At the Golden Gate.
81SAN FRANCISCO, February 24.
82A DECIDED ante-lenten activity seems to pervade our musical atmosphere just now and we are having quite a carnival of concerts, benefits, &c.
83The Grand Opera House was filled last week by the friends of the Fabiola Hospital, which institution received more than $2,000 as the result of the affair. The entertainment was furnished by an aggregation of that queer sort of talent which delights in picking so-called music out of mandolins, guitars, lutes and banjos.
84They say we are indebted to the Chinese for the introduction into this country of the pernicious opium habit which has now grown to such fearful proportions. In like manner, I presume, we may trace the source of this deplorable craze for "the lascivious pleasures of a lute" to those vagrant "Spanish Students" who invaded civilization some years ago and made us acquainted with a form of musical vice which has spread almost as fearfully as has the opium habit.
85While this sort of thing may be better than no music at all, it is so much beneath what music ought to be that one is irritated at the undeserved prom'ence it has obtained, and at the effrontery of its professional devotees. one of two readings
86While this sort of thing may be better than no music at all, it is so much beneath what music ought to be that one is irritated at the undeserved prominence it has obtained, and at the effrontery of its professional devotees. one of two readings
87With "studios," "concerts," &c., these people get the attention of those who are ambitious to be regarded as musical and to pose before their friends as players, but are too indolent to work for the honor, and so take up one of those semi-barbarous "play" things which they possibly suppose to be musical instruments!
88One of the most prominent "p. ofessors" was heard to say, "There is no music in any instrument but the mandolin!" Great Scott! What a soul for music he must possess! What glorious harmonies float in his imagination! one of two readings
89One of the most prominent "professors" was heard to say, "There is no music in any instrument but the mandolin!" Great Scott! What a soul for music he must possess! What glorious harmonies float in his imagination! one of two readings
90But with the wish that all this plunky business could be sent over the border into Mexico to the bull baiting, carousing, mongrel crowd of superfluous humanity, among whom it might be more appropriate, and who, I regret to say, have not retained a monopoly of it, I will turn to a pleasanter phase of musical effort.
91The "Saturday Morning Orchestra," composed entirely of young women, under the baton of Mr. J. H. Rosewald, have been playing together for a year or two for their own pleasure and improvement. I have previously commented upon the good sense of these ladies in going in for the real thing instead of the Spanish Student twaddle.
92They have learned to play so well that it was thought proper to come before the public in behalf of some charity. The Ladies' Protection and Relief Society was chosen, and one of the finest audiences ever gathered there filled the Metropolitan Temple to the roof on the 16th to witness their debut.
93Of course everything was arranged in excellent style—stage dressed in flowers, shrubs and ribbons gay; the girls in a prismatic variety of hues most pleasing to the eye, the audience "dicked up" for the occasion, and even ordinary programs had to give way to an "édition de luxe" reduced down to the artistic illegibility of a last century tombstone.
94The performance began with Adams' "Si j'étais roi" overture and ended with Verdi's "Nebuco" ditto. The girls played Mascagni's inter- mezzo, some of "Tannhäuser," Jungman's "Harp Sounds," Wolf's "Elegie," and what was particularly pleasing, Sauret's "Concert Waltz," arranged by Mr. Rosewald. one of two readings
95The performance began with Adams' "Si j'étais roi" overture and ended with Verdi's "Nebuco" ditto. The girls played Mascagni's intermezzo, some of "Tannhäuser," Jungman's "Harp Sounds," Wolf's "Elegie," and what was particularly pleasing, Sauret's "Concert Waltz," arranged by Mr. Rosewald. one of two readings
96Miss May Worth and Mrs. Ivy Wandesford Kersey contributed vocal numbers, the whole combining to form a delightful entertainment.
97There were fifteen violins, three violas, three 'cellos, two contrabasses, two flutes (Boehm's), one clarinet, one oboe, two cornets, one trombone, drums, a piano, an organ and a harp, the latter played most admirably.
98While the band is not quite complete it shows a very promising begin- ning and reflects great credit upon all concerned. The president, Mrs. Selden S. Wright, who inaugurated the effort and is indefatigable in fur- thering its progress, and Mr. J. H. Rosewald, who conducts the rehears- als, have much reason to feel proud of the "Saturday Morning Orches- tra." one of two readings
99While the band is not quite complete it shows a very promising beginning and reflects great credit upon all concerned. The president, Mrs. Selden S. Wright, who inaugurated the effort and is indefatigable in furthering its progress, and Mr. J. H. Rosewald, who conducts the rehearsals, have much reason to feel proud of the "Saturday Morning Orchestra." one of two readings
100In the same hall on the 17th the Philharmonic Society, under Hermann Brandt, gave its third concert of the thirteenth season, and very naturally gave a superior performance. The band was complete and numbered about fifty. Under Mr. Brandt (formerly concert master with Theodore Thomas) their interpretation of a fine program was a matter of course. They gave us "The Siege of Corinth," overture; "Le Domino Noir," ditto; the "Suite Arleisienne," of Bizet; a funeral march of Schumann, orchestrated by Godard; Mascagni's intermezzo, and Vieuxtemps' fan- taisie caprice, which was finely played by Mr. Joseph M. Willard. Miss May Worth contributed the vocal numbers. one of two readings
101In the same hall on the 17th the Philharmonic Society, under Hermann Brandt, gave its third concert of the thirteenth season, and very naturally gave a superior performance. The band was complete and numbered about fifty. Under Mr. Brandt (formerly concert master with Theodore Thomas) their interpretation of a fine program was a matter of course. They gave us "The Siege of Corinth," overture; "Le Domino Noir," ditto; the "Suite Arleisienne," of Bizet; a funeral march of Schumann, orchestrated by Godard; Mascagni's intermezzo, and Vieuxtemps' fantastical caprice, which was finely played by Mr. Joseph M. Willard. Miss May Worth contributed the vocal numbers. one of two readings
102To one who cannot hear Thomas' or Nikisch's orchestra work this enter- tainment was wonderfully "filling at the price," there being nothing to pay for it all. one of two readings
103To one who cannot hear Thomas' or Nikisch's orchestra work this entertainment was wonderfully "filling at the price," there being nothing to pay for it all. one of two readings
104Our carnival of music is to be brought to a climax by the production to-night of Stewart's opera "Bluff King Hal," which has been in preparation for a month or two. I have attended the final rehearsals and predict that the work will achieve a triumph. The Grand Opera House has been sold out for about $8,000, and there will be a veritable Patti audience at the premier. Nearly $3,000 has been expended on the production.
105The verdict of the inumerous auditors at rehearsal is unanimous in its praise. So many gems occur in the work that they all seem to stand out, to the exclusion of individual prominence. The color of the libretto, which is by Mr. Daniel O'Connell, a very humorous and ready writer upon our local press, is similar to that of "Robin Hood." The first and third acts are in front of Windsor Castle, the second is laid in the forest, among the outlaws who capture the "Constable of Windsor" and "have some fun with him." one of two readings
106The verdict of the numerous auditors at rehearsal is unanimous in its praise. So many gems occur in the work that they all seem to stand out, to the exclusion of individual prominence. The color of the libretto, which is by Mr. Daniel O'Connell, a very humorous and ready writer upon our local press, is similar to that of "Robin Hood." The first and third acts are in front of Windsor Castle, the second is laid in the forest, among the outlaws who capture the "Constable of Windsor" and "have some fun with him." one of two readings
107The performers are all amateurs, but the singing of several of them is not at all amateurish, notably that of Mr. Donald de V. Graham, Mrs. Charles Dickman and Mrs. Winans Williams. The latter is quite as pretty and nearly, if not quite, as vocal as Lillian Russell. She really ought to adopt the operatic stage as a profession, but although she has had several tempting offers she has hitherto declined to accept them. It does not fall to the lot of every composer to have his first opera produced as gorgeously as Stewart's will be, but then every first opera is not as deserving as I think his is, and I hope it may be produced many more times with even greater advantages.
108The Carmichael-Beel Saturday populars occur fortnightly and are always enjoyed.
109The last one was given on the 13th, when Mr. Beel played Beethoven's sonata for violin, op. 12, No. 2. He and Mr. Landsberger gave Spohr's duo for two violins, Mr. Heine and Mrs. Carr played Mendelssohn's sonata for 'cello and piano, and Mr. Carlisle N. Greig sang several German songs and an aria from "The Messiah."
110These concerts are very entertaining and instructive to the students of good music, who muster in goodly numbers to listen to the classical pro- grams. one of two readings
111These concerts are very entertaining and instructive to the students of good music, who muster in goodly numbers to listen to the classical programs. one of two readings
112The Orpheum has again closed its doors and the "New York Company" is no more. It is almost impossible to make anything which rivals the Tivoli survive at this unlucky house. The Tivoli, however, goes on forever with the best orchestra in town and a company about as good as that at the Casino in New York, but, unlike the latter house, constantly chang- ing the bill, which entails a great deal of work. one of two readings
113The Orpheum has again closed its doors and the "New York Company" is no more. It is almost impossible to make anything which rivals the Tivoli survive at this unlucky house. The Tivoli, however, goes on forever with the best orchestra in town and a company about as good as that at the Casino in New York, but, unlike the latter house, constantly changing the bill, which entails a great deal of work. one of two readings
114Corrid is giving "Poor Jonathan" at the Bush Street Theatre this week to good attendance, despite so many counter attractions elsewhere. We have plenty of amusement offered us in San Francisco.
115H. M. BOSWORTH.
117They Have Dissolved. — Messrs. Michael Levenston and Marcus Mayer have dissolved partnership. The former has taken a seven years' lease of the theatre now being built in St. Martin's lane, near Trafalgar square, London, for Miss Violet Melnotte, and he hopes to open it at Easter with the new Egyptian comic opera by George Dance and Ivan Caryll. When Marie Tempest returns to London in May she will join Levenston's company.
118Mrs. Blauvelt.—At a gathering of a few friends by Mrs. John Lawrence, of 343 West Fifty-eighth street, New York, one evening this week, the company was electrified by the singing of Mrs. Blauvelt, the prima donna, who lent her genial presence and magnificent voice to the occasion. Never was a singer's versatility better displayed. From French chanson to gems of lyric drama every grade and color of musical expression were touched upon by the generous little lady, who gave of her splendid talents freely and conscientiously as if on a stage before a Continental audience. Her piquant figure was clad in a charming gown of pale gray and baby blue, with pink and white roses. Her mignon face, lit by glorious black eyes and framed in a pompadour of dark hair, enchained quite as much as did her thrilling song. She was accompanied by her husband, a tall and handsome young fellow, to whom she is devoted.
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