MUNICIPAL MUSIC.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 233, 2 October 1928, Page 6

MUNICIPAL MUSIC.

SEASONS FOR POOR ATTEND AT? CF.. (To the Editor.) The scanty audiences of late are due to the council's folly of increasing the charge for admission, the changing of the night of performance, and broadcasting. Before this was done the Municipal Choir at least sang to full houses. In presenting the organ to the peopl# of Auckland Sir Henry Brett did not present it to the City Council as a source of revenue. If this body is so aghast at the expense incurred by the organ why not at that of the band, which is infinitely greater? If three honorary organists, why not three honorary bandmasters, too? One councillor objects to the bolstering-up of the choir by soloists, but raises no objection to the band engaging these same artists. Also, he said, the people wanted the band and not the organ. The people do enjoy the band—in the open air, plaved in the parks or Zoo, but not in the Town TT?H as is evidenced by the meagre attendances! The City Council leads the public to think that the Municipal Choir is a paid bodv, as the band is. The choir gives its services gratis for the love of music and loyalty to its conductor. Each member pays* an" annual subscription and receives no benefits whatsoever from the council. FAIR PLAY.