TALENTED MUSICIANS

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20070, 17 October 1939, Page 5

TALENTED MUSICIANS

BLIND PERFORMERS VISIT BY BAND Expected in Gisborne on October 30, the entertainment party from the New Zealand Institute for the Blind promises to be both novel and outstandingly good. The magnificent results achieved by the institute in the training of the blind are well known, but it is not often that the public has the opportunity to see an actual demonstration of them. Depressed as we sometimes are by our difficulties, it is an inspiration to see how these young men make light of what seems the heaviest of burdens and expect no concessions on that account. Some have never seen the light of day-, some have been blinded in youth or early manhood by unfortunate accidents or illness, while others have a certain amount of vision, though not enough to read or write or to earn a living without special training; but all are equally happy, independent and doing a useful day’s work at the institute. Most of the band members, prior to taking up band work, had a thorough initial training in pianoforte and partsinging, and others as piano-tuners. The various parts are transcribed into Braille, which can present effectively the ordinary musical notation. These are learnt by heart, and difficult and intricate pieces are played by the band with little obvious leadership by its quiet, confident conductor, Lieut. G. W. Bowes, late of the Bth Hussars. The party, which also includes a number of excellent vocalists and instrumental soloists, will present a programme on October 30 at the Opera House. The arrangements for the visit are in the hands of the Gisborne Rotary Club.