ENG-1952 — Page 207

THE ARTS

recitals and three broadcasts. Rarely has a visiting accepted with more enthusiasm. Dr. pianist been accepted with Lofthouse is an acknowledged authority on the study and interpretation of Bach, and his lecture-concerts with explanation and comment were a model that should stimulate further experiments in this technique. They should go far to develop a more informed appreciation of music in a community where enthusiasm is wide- spread.

The ballet has its adherents, choral singing is popular and madrigal groups flourish in private circles. Of the larger societies, three were prominent. The Hong Kong Singers sang "The Messiah" early in the year and later presented "Elijah" both in Kowloon and at the University. The Choral Group attained a very high standard in its production of "La Traviata" sung in Italian; the Crescendo Choral Society gave several concert performances.

'Increased interest in music was revealed in the rapidity with which the Schools Music Association expanded in its annual music festival, and two schools combined to give a creditable production of "The Pirates of Penzance". The Police Band made their first and very successful public appearance. Other activities included a number of gramophone circles and the frequent playing of chamber music by interested groups in private homes.

A dearth of professional productions in English combined with intense amateur interest could be seen in the dramatic activities of the Colony. It is true that amateurs are able to profit from the professional per- formances of Chinese operas and plays at public theatres, but English drama in Hong Kong is entirely the province of amateurs. The Kai Tak Players and

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