BAND CONCERT.

Grey River Argus, 16 February 1927, Page 6

BAND CONCERT.

That the Greymouth Band possesses the confidence of the citizens of Greymouth was fully exemplified by tin large attendance at their concert last evening, and if applause counts for an} thing in the contest arena the Greymouth Band will be w|ll up the honours’ list. The Band’s concerts seem to be one continual success, and it must indeed be gratifying to Conductor McMasters and his men to renow that their efforts are so much appreciated. The opening item was that well known hymn “Near My God To Thee” (which toe Band will play in the liymn Test). The effort put forth was delightful, all the various aspects of this beautiful number being admirably brought out, the crescendos, dimuendos pianos and fortis all being treated artistically. The contest selections “Lortzing” and“Gounyd” were the Band’s real test and they came through the ordeal of these two heavy works with flying colours. The intonation was splendid and all seemed to be perfectly in tune and under con trol. The various movements of the excerpts of the best parts of these two composers’ works were artistically rendered. The Band would take on a heavy double forte movement, and with just a wave of the baton down they would come to a piano movement, or a solo with band accompaniment. All the soloists did their parts well and the accompaniments were nicely toned down. The contest march “Wairarapa” has established itself a favourite and whenever played it is always listened to with rapt interest, tire beautiful crispness and the bright leading work of the various instruments making a real happy snappy march. The soprano cornet has nice work in this item. The Band’s other item was the descriptive fantasy’ “Fox and Hound” which introduced a form of burlesque in music which is much appreciated, especially the vocal effort and the “gunfire” which slightly unnerved people. The quartette party (Messrs P. Griffin, G. Steel, E. Ellery and W. Jackson) gave fthc contest item the “Minister” and their effort was must appreciated. 'M r. Leo Carruthers’s trombone solo “Send Forth the Call” was admirably render ed for one so y’oung, and thus young man will yet make a name for himsell in musical circles. Mr. P. Griffin rendered that beautiful solo “Silver Threads Among the Gold” most artistically, his only failing being a couple of top “ c’s ” evidently due to dryness, but nevertheless the job was well done. The supporting items, though limited, were indeed choice and the Band are to bo complimented on securing such artists. Miss Parfit also gave a mono logue “The Toy Gunn” and for a vociferous encore gave u ln the Rain” both items being well rendered. The advent of Mr. D. McGill had been eager ly awaited by all music-lovers and from his first item ho established him self as a favourite, his chijice of songs being exquisite. He had to respond to encore after encore. His numbers were: ■— u The Carnival”, “Heart of Gold’ “If You Would Love Me,” “A Vuchella,” “1 Heard You Singing,” “Enough”, “Little French Baby. ’ Mr. McGill is the possessor of a lyric tenor voice, which is most pleasing to listen to, the band are to be commended for bringing such an artist to Greymouth.

Mr. Greenslade (Deputy Mayor) on behalf of the citizens, congratulated the Band on their performance, and trusted that their efforts at the contest would bring honour to the town. Mr. Murray (Secretary) responded on behalf of the band and thanked Mr. Greenslade for his kind remarks regard ing the baluT’s performance, and for the citizens’ good wishes for success a! the forthcoming contest in Wellington. He also thanked each and every person who assisted the band in any way. To enumerate any persons might lead to some person being omitted. The accompanists for tEe evening were Miss Me Sherry and Miss Broad. The playing ol the National Anthem brought to a con elusion one of the best local concert* ever given in Greymouth.

Donation to Band.

FROM BISHOP BRODIE. The following letter is self-explanatory —“St. Patrick’s Presbytery Greymouth February 15th., 1927:—Mr. W. D. Mur ray, Secretary, Greymouth Band. —Dear Mr. Murray, Before returning to Christ church this morning His Lordship Bisli op Brodie asked me to say to you that he enjoyed very much indeed the items which the Band rendered at last night ’s concert, and that he appreciates the courtesy and kindness which it has so often manifested in helping th I good work of the Brothers and Sisters in the town. He hopes the Band will have a successful and pleasant trip. He encloses £5. With all good wishes I am yours faithfully, ,1. Long.”