"Epoch"

Two months ago the directors of the Philharmonic Society of New York announced what other orchestra supporters enviously called "the catch of the season"--slim, fiery, volatile Arturo Toscanini of Milan engaged for 1927-28. The Philharmonic had had Signer Toscanini often before but always as a guest conductor. Now he would conduct 41 concerts, be a "regular."

Last week Chairman Clarence H. Mackay of the Philharmonic directors capped good news with better. He announced "an epoch in the musical arts of this country -- in the engagement of Signor Toscanini as a "regular" for four more years after 1927-28.

Weary but well heeled after a season during which he received $50,000 for 18 concerts, Signor Toscanini has "retired" temporarily. He will not assume his new duties until next February.

His welcome then will doubtless be the greater for its delay. Manhattanites have acquired, largely from his electric personality, an increasingly positive reaction to symphony. Five years ago they filled only 71% of the Philharmonic's seats during the season. Last season they filled 98%.

In Cleveland, without saying "epoch," the Musical Arts Association announced the reengagement of Conductor Nikolai Sokolov for another five years with the Cleveland Orchestra.