Mason-Thomas Chamber Music Soiree: 5th

“The Spohr Octet attracted a larger audience than is usually present at these soirees; a fine work, carefully instrumented and well elaborated. The Menuetto is very nice; the 2d movement—an adaptation of the ‘Harmonious Blacksmith’—has a very pleasing effect; the Finale, an airy, sprightly Allegretto in E major, sets out with a melody which at first appears trivial, but suddenly surprises one by its fine changes of key and the artistic working up of the theme. Altogether, the Octet was very enjoyable.

Mr. Mason played the Schumann piece in his habitually careful, accurate, and I grieve to say, phlegmatic manner; firmness and precision were there, but delicacy and feeling were somewhat lacking.

The Beethoven Quartet, built on a large, broad scale, is an admirable instance of what has been termed the author’s ‘third period.’ The 5th movement, ‘Cavatina, Adagio molto espressivo,’ is more clear and less involved than are most of the other movements (there are six in all), and is therefore better calculated to please upon a first hearing.”