Organised by the British Broadcasting
Corporation from Queen's Hall, W.1
(Sole Lessees, Messrs. Chappell and Co., Ltd.)
First Concert
Dedicated to F. A. Stock, the well-known Chicago conductor, Busoni's
' Rondo arlecchinesco ', included -in this evening's programme, is best described in Busoni's own words-
In his brightly coloured costume A supple body
A spritely and sharp-witted spirit.
Harlequin's speech is universal. Now he affirms his principles boldly through the trumpet ; now he whistles to the world through the piccolo ; menaces with the basses, languishes with the 'cello, seeks distant places with the violins' celerity.
Rather as an accompanying illustration than as a programme, this series of pictures hovered before the composer: (1) The portrait of the hero in two profiles and one full face. (2) Harlequin's intuition and merry spirit (which the leanings towards a serenade set forth in the score). (3) His flight in consequence of an all-too-daring prank from which Harlequin escapes through his charm of manner and courage. (4) Harlequin, from his safe distance, lets the world hear his voice in calculated mockery.