As you know, the people of Mudgee and Gulgong had an opportunity last week to attend a concert given by the pianist of international standing, Mr Roger Woodward, at the Gulgong Prince of Wales Opera House.
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During his career, Mr Woodward has been very generous with his time, giving concerts frequently in country areas including some fairly remote places. I have attended his concerts on previous occasions and I was looking forward to hearing him play in Gulgong.
Mr Woodward’s skill as a concert pianist is undoubtedly of the highest degree. However, his choice of music, I believe, was unfortunate. The whole programme was devoted to highly technical and little known music, suitable for sophisticated audiences in larger centres, but difficult for rural people to appreciate.
His performance was applauded by a large audience but I feel that they were bewildered by it all. Having enjoyed concerts by Mr Woodward in the past, I was disappointed on this occasion.
Country people like to be entertained and go home happy. They don’t like to be overpowered by a culture beyond their understanding.
Mr Woodward needs to realise that we are for the most part simple souls and we appreciate simple pleasures.
