THE ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XL, Issue 7926, 6 October 1904, Page 4

THE ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY.

The members of the Palmerston Orchestral Society are to be complimented on the decision made at last meeting. ■ As previously announced it-, was decided that one-third of the gross receipts, outside the honorary members' subscriptions, shall be devoted to deserving public institutions, such as the hospital and the Beautifying Association. The last concert of the present season is set down to take place in December. The proportion stated of the gross takings will be handed hi this instance to the Beautifying Association. In connection with the matter it will be as well for us to mention that the Society is frequently asked to contribute selections to concert and entertainment programmes, but it has not been found desirable to comply with such requests. This attitude has not been adopted from a desire to hold aloof from entertainments promoted for deserving public objects, but entirely because of circumstances which prevent compliance with applications for assistance in the manner stated. In the first place the Society has objections to contributing to con. certs unless it is represented by its full strength, and it is not always convenient for members to give their services on these special occasions. They are expected to regularly attend the usual weekly practice in preparation for their own series of concerts. For public ! appearances outside of these, special rehearsals would require to beheld, and would necessitate too great a tax on the members' time. This explanation is made in order that the public may not form a wrong impression regarding the society. It is the desire of the latter to assist as far as possible deserving institutions in the town without interfering with the practices. The action of the members clearly shows that they are very anxious to fulfil the duties, devolving on them as citizens, while at the same time pursuing their musical studies, and if their action results in largely increased membership and greater patronage or then- concerts, it will be fitting appreciation of the self-sacrificing labours of a body of gentlemen desirous of doing their utmost to promote the welfare of Palmerston.