Evening star., 1950-02-05

At his recital this afternoon in
Constitution Hall. Artur Rubin
stein should enjoy himself thor
oughly. He is going to play just
what he pleases. There will be no
printed program and the re-.
nowned pianist will announce the
numbers from the stage. He had
had Chopin program all ar
ranged, but, as one was given by
Guiomar Novaes on October %,
Patrick Hayes, both artists being
on his series, urged Rubinstein to
give one of the impromptu re-
citals he likes so well.
It is understandable that an
artist should feel some rebellion at
being limited to one or two set
programs each season. To sit
down before an audience, as be-
fore a group of friends in a private
drawing room, and play for it
whatever comes to mind must act
as an inspiration. The strange
current binding a performer to his
listeners Is familiar to every artist
if not to the audience itself. He
can sense how pleased they are
before the applause comes, how
indifference is politely masked or
how no impression was made
whatsoever. To set this magic
current operating pleasantly is the
artists task and sometimes he
works hard at it.
Stated Programs the Vogue.
Some people will be disappoint-
ed not to be able to look forward
to the hearing Of some specific
work. Usually an artist prepares
two or more programs that he will
use alternately during the season.
They are built mostly about some
major work. preferably something
new or seldom played. After
many repetitions, the artists first
fine glow of interest must dim.
However. most pianists would
favor the long practiced program,
even the worries as to this or that
passage, rather than trust to the
inspiration of the moment as will
Rubinstein.
But does he guide himself by
the momentary rapport he feels
with his public? Does he think
to himself at the finish of num-
ber, Nov, what shall I play?'
and does he ever get to the point
in these extemporaneous ven-
lures when he says, Now, what
in the world shall I play!"
He has tried this kind of recital
several times, so is experienced In
making his selections. Whatever
his choice will be. his auditors
can be assured that an extra bit
of personal enjoyment will GO
into the performance as Rubin
stein scans his vast repertoire for
its choicest items. Those at
tending the recitalthis afternoon
will have the additional fillip OF
keen expectation.
Jennie Tourel Sings Tuesday.
Tuesday night, when Jennie
Tourel gives her first recital ir
Constitution Hall, the program
will be printed. The noted singer
was heard in the hall once before
when she sang the title role OF
Carmen" with the Washington
Grand Opera Company and has
appeared here several times at
private affairs.
In the eight years since she
came to this country, she has at
tanned more than fame. She has
won and held the respect and
admiration of all who have heard
her. Each generation has a few
musicians who reached the upper
stratum of artistry but the list
is not crowded at present. Many
bear the title of artist who have
no right to it considering the
quality Of their mentality and
their fidelity to high standards.
Miss Tourel seems never to have
disappointed musicians. To this
critical circle. headed by Tosca-
mini who selected her for the
feminine role in Berlioz' Romeo