“THE MESSIAH.”

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 255, 25 September 1940, Page 9

“THE MESSIAH.”

PERFORMANCE IN CITY. |

ORGANISATION FORMED

With the object of holding a performance of Handel’s oratorio “The Messiah” towards the end of the year as a finale to the Centennial celebrations, the proceeds to be devoted, to the patriotic funds, an organisation was formed at a meeting of choirmasters called by the Mayor (Mr A. E. Mansford) and held in the City Council Chambers last evening. The deputy-Mayor (Cr G. Tremaine) presided, others present being Messrs J- Holmes ltunnicles (All Saints’ Church), A. Charles (St. Peter's, Terrace End), H. Radford (Baptist Church), H. T. Pitcher (Cuba Street Methodist Church), J. 8. Murray (St. David’s Presbyterian Church), H. 0. Christensen (Lutheran Church), A. Tregurtha (St. Paul’s Methodist Church) and J. R. Hardie (town clerk). In moving that the meeting decide to hold a performance, Mr ltunnicles pointed out that the overhead cost involved might amount to between £6O, and £7O, the principal expense being the engagement of soloists. It might be possible to have the Wellington performance repeated- in Palmerston North. He suggested that 200 guarantors be obtained at 10s each to ensure the financial success of the production. In reply to a suggestion that the City Council guarantee the committee against loss, Mr Tremaine expressed the opinion 'that the promoters should get an estimate of the expenditure from the. Wellington Choral Society. Any question of assistance would have to be placed before the council. He understood from the Mayor that the Symphony Orchestra would assist in every way. The motion was approved.' Mr Runnicies was appointed conductor, and it was decided to invite Mr C. L. Mowlem, conductor of the Symphony Orchestra. to act as leader. Mr Charles was appointed secretary and Mr Hardie agreed to act as treasurer. Approval was given to a proposal that all city choirmasters, including those present, form themselves into a committee to organise the production. It was also decided that the organisation be known as the Palmerston North Centennial Choral Union. Mr Runmcles was appointed chairman of the committee.