CONCERT AT MATAW

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 67, 22 March 1901, Page 3

CONCERT AT MATAW

Tin? Mutawhcvo school picnic and concert took place yesterday, and, notwithstanding the unfavorable state of the weather, passed off most successfully. The conditions with regard to weather were not all that could bo desired for a picnic, but the Committee deemed it unwise to postpone the gathering, and so the schoolroom was cleared for the use of the children in the event of rain. Games of all descriptions were arranged for the young people in the school ground, and all present appeared to enjoy themselves to tiio utmost. The ladies of the district provided a plentiful supply of refreshments, and everything ' possible was done by the ’ committee, and particularly by Mr Bin-ell, the Chairman, to make tho outing a pleasant and enjoyable one. The Committee are greatly indebted to the townspeople for the liberality shown in the matter of prizes. There was a crowded attendance at the concert in the evening, when a capital programme was submitted. The school was tastefully decorated, and presented a pleasing appearance. Tho overture was played by Mrs Muir and Mr .lames McFarlane, and was followed by the song “ Bid Mo To Love,” which was sweetly rendered hv Miss Meany, who was enthusiastically encored. “ The March of the Cameron Men ” was ploasinglv rendered by Mr Birroll, who was heard to distinct 'advantage in this favorite Scotch song, an encore being demanded. Mr Bh.il Sheridan is always .sought after for a recitation, and his rc'ception last evening was, os usual, of a most enthusiastic character, “ Tho Dandy Fifth ” being given in a spirited manner. Miss Birrell received an imperative encore for her song. “ Coming Thro’ the Bye,” and Messrs McFarlane and Muir were equally successful in the duct, " Money Matters,” which was loudly applauded. MiKiwi was in good voice, and gave a pleasing rendering of “ Look Back.” Miss Poswillo has established herself as a favorite at local concerts, and her song, ” The Kiver of Years,” was certainly one of the gems of the evening, the young lady being compelled to respond.' A second recitation by Mr Sheridan was well received, as also was the ■ concerted piece, “ Bock a By Baby,” the 1 ittcr being given in a manner which indicated a good deal of careful instruction, by the school children. “ Dearest of All ” was sung by Miss Heaney in a most impressive manner, as was also “ Sweet Violets ” by Miss Poswillo. both young ladies being recalled. An attractive item was tho song, “ The Lads in Navy Blue,” by tho Misses Jones, this patriotic numbor being received with storms of applause. Another interesting item was the comic dialogue, “ Gie Me Back My C-locs,” given by Messrs Sheridan, East, and Ferris, in a very clever manner, the trio being twice recalled. Mr Lowndes made a great hit with his song, “ I'm Getting It by Degrees,” which was greatly appreciated. Mr P. Doyle rendered ’' I’ve worked eight hours with exeat success, and Miss Birrell gave a second song “ My Heart- is sad for Somebody.” The duet, “Very Improper Indeed,” by Mr C. McFarlane and Mrs Muir, and the singing of “ Auld Lang Syne” brought a most successful concert to a close. The staging, which was greatly admired, was the work of Messrs McFarlane, who went to the trouble of bringing most of it from the Academy of Music. Mr B. Macduff Birrell made an excellent Chairman. In opening the proceedings he extended a hearty welcome to the visitors from town, and made special iuention of the kindness of those ladies and gentlemen who had contributed towards the concert programme. A dance followed the concert, and was well attended, being continued with spirit until an early hour this morning,