ARIA.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VI, Issue 438, 10 February 1912, Page 5

ARIA.

Own Correspondent. The combined Aria and Kaeaea schools held their annual picnic on Wednesday. The weather was perfect, although in the early part of the day it threatened to be showery. A fair number of parents and friends gathered together and did their utmost to make things interesting to the children, and that their efforts were appreciated was quite evident from the smiling faces on all sides. A committee of ladies managed the refreshment deparment and experienced proved that it could not have been in better hands. In the evening a social wa3 held in the Kaeaea Hall, when there was a splendid attendance, and although the weather was hot for dancing the floor space was taxed to the uttermost. At intervals dubing the evening the audience was treated to some excellent music. One could easily imagine oneself listening to a first-class concert in one of our up-to-date towns. Mesdames Riddle and Brough delighted their audience in solos and duets, and were repeatedly called. Miss Morell accompanied the singers and also contributed songs, which were rendered with taste and power. Mr Pichin is the happy possessor of a splendid tenor voice, added to which is a good training and perfect knowledge of music. His songs would be listened to with pleasure by the most critical audience. Mr Nelson's rich baritone rang through the hall and especially in "The Good Rhine Wine," rivalled the mellowness of that farfamed liquor. Messrs Riddle, Ryan and Ward Main also contributed to the evening's enjoyment. Mr McHolm was all that could be desired as M.C., his energy and good humour helping not a little towards the success of the evening.