COMMUNITY SINGING.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXIII, Issue 4449, 4 August 1922, Page 2

COMMUNITY SINGING.

. Q / THE OPENING NIGHT.

The “sing” germ planted in our midst last January took root in the Central Hall last night, when the building was well filled. There are few provincial towns that could have had a more enthusiastic display than that given last night and it is abundantly evident that ‘‘Let’s all, Sing” will be as popular here as in the municipalities. By the appointed time the hall was well filled, from the smallest tiithusiasJc boys and girls to the older and more sedate, for whom the sounds of familiar tunes sung by a multitude have a peculiar charm. In his opening remarks His Worship the Mayor apologised for the absence of Mr B. W. Porritt, president of the Chamber of Commerce, under whose guidance the singing had been arranged. Councillor Vuglar had also sent along an apology, he being indisposed. The committee appointed by the chamber had found it difficult to get a leader, and, fortunately, they had been able to secure the Rev. Mr Mitchell, of Thames, who had attended at considerable inconvenience :o himself just to help Paeroa along. Probably at a later date “Discord” will come forward and lend a .hand. (Laughter and applause.) His Worship then introduced Mr Mitchell, The reverend gentleman, who was in his usual right good jovial spirits, was not long before he had his audience in a hearty good humour. He was brim-full of humour throughout, and his versatile and happy nature appealed to all present. “The National Anthem” was appropriately first sung; then came “The Cheer Germ Song.” It was not until this had been' sung a couple of times and competition with the ladies on one side of the iliall and the “good singers” in the gallery that all settled down to business in earnest. “Pack up your Troubles” came next, and with great vim. “It’s a Short, Short Life” and “Just a Wee Deocli-an-Doris” were also given out with enthusiasm, especially the latter, the conductor declaring that the ladies had the steadier voices. A solo by Cr. Edwards, “Joggin’ Along the Highway,” which has a swinging chorus, was taken up very heartily. Another of the old and popular songs came to light in "Juanita,” and this wa.s one of the pleasures of the evening. “Come to the Fair”. was sung with great spirit. "Now I’ll give a half-crown to tne young man who will come forward and sing the next on the programme, ‘Mather Machree,”’ said Mr Mitchell. There was a little hesitation, then a round of applause as a young man, William Hill, stepped on to the stage. He earned his “half-dollar,” and earned it well, and received the merited congratulations, especially those of his chums, when he joined them. "By Killarney’s Lakes and Fells” was whistled by the ladies, while the words were sung by the men. This also caused some merriment. The star piece of the evening was undoubtedly that given by Mr Mitchell, when he sang “Zealandia,’ a song written by Mr, Rossiter for the N.Z, Exhibition. His very fine voice was heard to advantage, and tp the repealed demands of the audience lie had to repeat one of the verses. There were no Scotchmen or lassies present, or if there were they failed to come forward at the invitation of the conductor and sing “Annie Laurie.” Perhaps they were bashful, and will gain confidence by Thursday next. However, all joined in an.l “Annie Laurie” got a real good hearing. Another solo by the conductor was just one that takes.. He asked all to join in and sing “Glory, Glory Hallelujah,” and struck up with “John Brown’s Body Lies A-mpulder-ing in the Grave.” The verse that ran “If Bill Massey’s Government won’t give us what we want, we’il send for Joe Ward” just brought down the house in roars of good humour. “A Perfect Day” and “Auld Lang Syne” completed the programme.

At the conclusion His Worship asked the audience if they should have another sing-song, and a hearty nospnnce “Yes” came from all over, the hall. He then announced that the “sing” would be held on Thursday next, same hour and place. He complimented and thanked the conductor and pianist, Mr Mitchell, on their efforts. The audience showed its appreciation by rising up and singing at the top of their voices “For They are Jolly Good Fellows/’ All those who took a part in the arrangements are to be congratulated upon making the community singing so successful. The collection amounted to £6 0s 6d.