MILITARY CONCERT.

Gisborne Times, Volume VIII, Issue 522, 19 September 1902, Page 2

MILITARY CONCERT.

Tho Military Concert given in the Ormond Public Hall last evening by tho members of the Past Coast Mounted Rifles, in aid of the Hospital funds, proved an unqualified success, the function being a most enjoyable one. The Corps held its monthly parade at Mr Newman’s grounds in the afternoon, where, under tho able command of Captain Colebourue, the men were put through a series of useful exercises. Some time was also devoted to outpost duty on the hills. There was a good muster of the members. At tho conclusion of their labors, the Corps were entertained at afternoon-tea by the Misses Newman and Miss Gordon, whose kind hospitality was much appreciated. At a quarter to 0, the Kifles reached the Ormond Hall, where an excellent spread awaited them. The ar-

rangements for the catering were carried out by Mr and Mrs Neenan, of the Ormond Hotel, which was a guarantee that everything was of the best, the viands being of a choice order. The tables and interior of tho Hall were prettily and artistically decorated, and everything else was in keeping. Dinner over, the hall was cleared for the concert, and at eight o’clock the building was crowded with an eager and attentive audienco. Captain Colebourne presided, the members of the Corps who were contributing items also occupying seats on the platform. The City Band arrived from town at seven o’clock, and after rendering several selections in the open-air, adjourned to the hall and played two or three pieces. Mr M. Foster was conducting, and Mr T. Morrison bandmaster. The music was much appreciated by all present, and tendered to greatly enliven tbe proceedings. The concert, which is tho first of tho kind given, went with a

good swing throughout, and everyone enjoyed it. Corporal Zaohariah gained the chief laurels of the evening, his comic songs fairly bringing down the house, and the popular Gisbornite was compelled to appear again and again. He gave a fine rendering of “ The Doctor,” and as an encore, “ Because I am Always Laughing,” which was so good that the audience for the great part found themselves laughing nearly as much as the singer. “ Oompah” was another success for Corp. Zaohariah, and he was compelled to respond with 11 Where I am Lodging Now ” and other items. Trooper Bolton sang “ Only a Bird in a Gilded Cage ” and “ The Skipper” in a pleasing manner, and Trooper F. Parker gave a capital recitation, entitled “ Bush Christening.” The song “ The Sailors of tbe King ” was given by Bugler Sherriff with good effect, whilst Trooper Oates gave a spirited rendering of “ The British Lion.” “ I Had Never been There Before” was the title of a comic song given by Trooper Laddie Sherriff, and proved an excellent ite-m, an encore being

demanded. A cornet solo, selections from the opera “ Mikado,” by Bugler Sherriff was much appreciated. Sergt.Major Evans was in excellent voice, and san" “ Dear Mother England” in fine style. He was encored for both his items, and in responding to the second recall, sang a coster song, in which he made a great hit. Trooper R. Parker sang 11 True as a Compass,” the number being one of the mostpopular of the evening, and the singer was compelled to make a second appearance. T-ooper G. Witters won the hearts of the audience with his singing of “ Dolly Grey,” and also had to submit to au encore'. Sergt. Daydeo sang “ Balaclava,” and soother song in praise of the British tars, both numbers being capitally rendered, " The Belle of Tennessee " wa

given with much expression by Mr D. i’rtfktr, and Trooper iiiggs was very successful in bis sons, "•itist One Girl." Messrs .J li, (dittos and Parnell 1 n.lily played the accompaniments during the evening. Mr dittos, who is manager of the London Music iiouse, in Gladstone Hoad, also gave the use of one of his linn's pianos or the concert. A presentation of a pleasing character was made during the m.eryul, when Captain Colebourne called lor Trooper Matthews, who wis n ar-ri-'d recently, and on behalf of the Company presented him with a very handsome silver teapot, suita'-ly inscribed. In making the presi-nialitn Captain Colebourne referred in the esteem and respect in which f,e recipient was held, and wished Mr and Mrs .Matthews every happiness. Trooper Matthews, m a neat and appropriate speech. thanked his comrades for their kindness. At the clcse of the concert, Mr W. Graham thanked the Rides and City Hand for the pleasant evening which they had afforded to the residents of Ormond, and at his request three hearty eneers were given. A dance, which followed, was

largely attended, and indulged in until an early hour this morning. The total receipts for concert and dance amuvnted to a little over £l2, and after expenses arc paid it is expected that there will be £lO for the Hospital. With the Government subsiiv, 'Tun £2O to £25 should accrue lo the fu»ds of the Hospital, which amount shoi Id prove very acceptable to fae institution, as at present their funds are very low-.