MUSICAL.

Hokitika Guardian, 14 April 1924, Page 1

MUSICAL.

A Conference of professional teachers of music from all parts of the Dominion is to’ he held in Wellington probably in May next, to discuss matters that, govern musical education, many such subjects being at least as important to the general public as to members of the profession. The conference has been very thoroughly organised and good results may he expected, llis Excellency the Governor-General lias sent his best wishes for its success. Any teachers of music who have not received official notification are recommended to get into touch with the nearest Incorporated Society of Musicians, or to write to the office of the Associated Board, Wellington. Among the mote important matters to lie dealt with are Registration of music teachers; Establishment of a ('onservatorium; and Music in Schools. A Bill to provide for registration has been drafted and is now under discussion: it is hoped to bring it .before Parliament this Session, if Gw /(inference confirms ii. The (’onservatorium question is often raised in the public press, hut no authoritative statement has been given upon the subject hv the musical profession. All are agreed that such an institution would he of immense 'benefit to music in this country, hut the financial aspect is really the present difficulty.

A pronouncement' upon the question, embodying the considered opinion of the profession as a whole will he of wide interest, and may have far reaching results. .Music in schools has attracted wide attention from various unionisations; the Music in Schools Association, Competitions Soceities, Choral Societies, Examining bodies and teachers of music arc all interested.

In England music is rapidly becoming a subject ol general education, hut much remains to he done in New Zealand to place it in its proper position, though much has been done. This'movement has the support of the profession and of educational authorities generally—notably the N.Z. University.

Many other subjects will he discussed at the Conference, matters of public- interest and others that affect the profession only. No such gathering lias been held in New Zealand since 100!).