Concert

“Mr. Oscar M. Newell gave a concert at Steinway Hall last evening. Mr. Newell is a young and ambitious pianist, the character of whose performances does not entitle him to choose from Mr. Gottschalk’s repertory with intent to recall memories which the dead creator alone could now evoke. Signor Randolfi was heard during his entertainment, and so were Mr. J. W. Pirsson, who though an amateur, has a good deal of mechanical skill as a violinist, Mr. J. A. Marsh, another young pianist, Mr. Ernest Perring, tenor; and an accomplished musician, and Miss Agnes Perring. Miss Perring has a soprano of good quality, and although she lacks the assurance of delivery of the time-tried vocalist, she produced a very agreeable impression by an execution of ‘Bel Raggio,’ in which the florid music was rendered with fidelity, and with a facility indicative of exceptional flexibility of voice and of excellent training.”

“At Steinway Hall, last night, before a select audience, Mr. Oscar M. Newell, one of our resident pianists, gave his first concert. He played several selections, receiving an encore for each. His style is brilliant and spirited, and his touch crisp and firm; but in very rapid passages there is sometimes a lack of distinctness. Mr. Newell’s selections included [see above]. Mr. Newell was assisted by Mr. Marsh and Mr. Schreiner respectively.”

Miss Perring, Mr. Perring and Mr. Randolfi were the vocalists. The lady has a voice, not strong, but clear and flexible, and with it she rendered Bishop’s ‘Bid me discourse’ in the delicate and tripping style which befits the composition. Mr. Perring’s cold prevented him from doing justice to the two songs which fell to his lot. Mr. Randolfi sang ‘Loving Heart,’ ‘Non e ver,’ and Eri tu (from ‘Un Ballo’) in his best style. It is certainly a pleasure to listen to a singer who, like Randolfi, throws his whole soul into the music and interprets it with passion, tenderness and sentiment. A closing word is due to Mr. Pirsson, an amateur violinist, who lent efficient aid at last night’s concert.”