Paul Whiteman won Williamsport. Not only did the splendid concert he presented amply reward the devotees who waltzed until 12:10 o’clock this morning to hear him but his personality, apparent in every gesture and word, gave him a firm place in the estimation of the theater goers. Seldom, if ever, has a concert had a better house and the capacity audience was brought to its feet several times.

Paul Whiteman is an exponent of the highest type of music. He has infused into jazz something of the wonders of the masters.  He is a master, and the reaction of his orchestra to slightest of the twitch baton, showed under what coordination they played.

Outstanding among the selections was, George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.” The first rhapsody written for solo instruments and the American orchestra. It has been scored by Ferde Grofe, and last evening’s, or rather this morning’s soloist was Barry Perella. Mr. Perella’s rendition of the piano part was flawless, while the entire orchestra, entering wholly into the spirit of the composition, brought forth waves of sound which swelled and diminished according to their leader’s indication.

The appearance of one of the purest and cleanest tenors ever to appear on the stage, was heralded by the opening strains of “Esmerelda,” the first Irish fantasy scored for a modern American orchestra. Morton Downey, in his place in the ensemble, stood in the spotlight and sang “An Irish Lullaby” with an unusual depth of feeling and interpretation. He was encored, giving two popular numbers.

The orchestra reached Williamsport yesterday afternoon and was the guest at a dinner at the Elk’s Club.

Compiled by Lou Hunsinger Jr.