THE MUNICIPAL BAND

Chronicle (Levin), 17 July 1946, Page 4

THE MUNICIPAL BAND

Steady Progress Made ■ . . j ! CQNCERT ON SUNDAY Lovers of band mqsic and ciHzens generally will be pleased to learn r that the recently-formed Levin Municipal Band will render > a 'programme of marches, hymns and selections in the Public Gardens on Sunday next commencing at 2.30 p.m., under the conductorship of Mr. G. R. Lester. It is a long time since a local band has appeared in public, and although the first practice of the newly-formed organisation was held on May 1, and weekly since then, any doubts "The Chronicle" representative hacl in regard to the playing ability of the band, were r quickly dispelled^ when he attended L their practice on Monday evening, to gain a few insights into the running of the musical side of one of the town's many assets. Sharp at 7.30 the conductor, Mr. Lester, took up his baton, and the • bandsmen started off on two hours of solid work. After "The King" had been played, the next piece was a bright snappy march entitled "Nutgrove," which set one's feet going keeping time with the music. Among other numbers a pretty valsette, "Evening Shadows," was one that caught the ear of "The Chronicle" representative. \ . There were twenty-eight bandsmen present on Monday evening, with two absent owing to other pressing duties. The playing of this combination reflects great credit on the capabilities of Mr. Lester, as does also the fact that six of the younger players had not played a band instrument until nine weeks ago. That Mr. Lester has brought them up to their present standard in such a short time is a remarkable performance. At the conclusion of the practice "The Chronicle" representative approached Mr. Lester to hear his views on the progress the band has made. He said: "The practice went particularly well this evening, and with a further one on Thursday evening the band will give a good account of itself at its performance before the public on Sunday afternoon. It all takes time," continued Mr. Lester, "and with more younger players coming along, in twelve months time you will not recognise this as Qie same band you- heard to-night." With a capable and enthusiastic conductor, and bandsmen that are full of zeal, th£ success of the Levin Municipal Band is assured. The thoughts of this journal's representative as he left the bandroom on Monday evening were ' that if the public is as enthusiastic over its band, after hearing them play on Sunday, as he is, then the band will have a wonderful measure of support.