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| Ariadne The Broughty Ferry Choral Union first performed this work in April 1884, and (according to Smieton's obituary on 14th July 1904) it "was favourably received. Since then it has been frequently performed both in Scotland and England, and the book of the Cantata is now in its sixth edition." The piece is divided into two parts, each ending with a chorus. There are two scenes in the first half and four in the second. According to the Dundee Advertiser of 5th April 1884, 'Mr J. More Smieton's cantata Ariadne will be performed by the Newport Musical Association in the Blyth Hall, Newport, on Wednesday, 9th inst., commencing at 8pm [The edition of 8th April 1884 adds: The composer will conduct]. Second part of the concert miscellaneous. Tickets 2s 6d each from Melville, Newport; Methven Simpson & Co.; or James Gibson, confectioner, Broughty Ferry. At the Kinnaird Hall, Dundee, on 25th November 1886, Ariadne formed the first half of a concert by Mr Petersen's Choir with orchestra. The word-book [Price Threepence] has this to say: 'The "book" of Ariadne is written by Mr JAMES SMIETON, M. A. The scenes are well arranged, and the poetry is decidedly superior to the usual run of librettos. The song, "When from out the Ocean's spray," is an artistic paraphrase of one of Anacreon's celebrated odes to the Rose. 'Mr J. MORE SMIETON'S music is bright and melodious in the lighter numbers; while it does not fail in depth and passion in the first despairing chorus of the Athenians, or in dramatic force in the scenes at the court of Minos. The vocal accompaniment to the Hymn to Venus is particularly effective. There is some skilful part writing in the instrumentation - the opening prelude being one of the most interesting numbers; the choruses also display Mr SMIETON'S intimate knowledge of musical form.' The second concert in Newport Choral Society's 1897-1898 season on 6th April 1898 is billed as the 50th performances of Ariadne. The programme (in Dundee Central Library, Lamb 454) lists the soloists and the players (2.2.2.1.1 strings, two cornets, horn, piano and harmonium), and A. H. Millar (whose collection of programmes this appears to be) has noted the changes. Smieton conducted a band that was led by A. M. Stoole and included A. C. Haden as principal viola, J. C. Johnstone on cornet, and David Stephen at the harmonium - i.e., ALL the local musical stars were involved! Sources: GB-Lbm ? GB-DPL GB-National Library of Scotland ESM 5/102 D-P ***** <-- Back Page last updated 31-10-2001 |
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