The Press: 1986 School of Music
Press, 4 August 1986, Page 6
Christchurch School of Instrumental Music annual demonstration concert, Town Hall Auditorium, Saturday, August 2, at 7.31 p.m. Reviewed by Roger Flury.
For 31 years, the Christchurch School of Instrumental Music has played a vital role in the musical life of this city. A staff of 80 teachers provides guidance and tuition to more than 1000 young people, ensuring that the students gain a solid musical foundation in study and performance.
Each year, the results of these efforts are put on display in a demonstration concert. As the president, Mr John Jennings, said in his address, the concert is an important part of the year’s activities because it enables the whole organisation to meet.
From the delightful Suzuki violin group to the combined items which ended the concert it was fascinating to trace the gradually evolving musical skills. In this type of concert, it is unfair to single out any items. The enthusiasm and’ patience of the audience were a tribute to the performers as well as to the army of supervisors who ensured everything ran smoothly.
Perhaps in future the programme could be shortened. Many groups played two items when one would have sufficed. Finally there should be a special word of praise for the Stage Jazz Band, which entertained in the foyer before the concert and during the interval. This was. an ungrateful task, done with flair and enthusiasm.
