ROYAL MALE CHOIR

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26639, 9 December 1947, Page 6

ROYAL MALE CHOIR

SOCIAL EVENING Much of the success of the centennial celebrations next year depended upon musical societies, said the Mayor, Mr Cameron, at a social evening for members of the Royal Dunedin Male Choir last night. Mr pameron congratulated the conductor, Mr Ernest Drake, on the choir’s achievements and requested its support for the centenary. The president, Mr J. Hope, occupied the chair. Details of a generous gift to the choir from Dr Thomas Fielden, a visiting English examiner, were given by Mr Drake. Dr Fielden had been impressed by the choir’s work and had announced his intention of presenting to it 100 copies of a Mendelssohn work and 12 part songs. He had decided also to compose a part song specially for the choir. On the motion of Mr A. Ibbotson, a vote of thanks was passed to Dr Fielden. Appreciation was also expressed of the work of Mrs Ernest Drake on behalf of the choir. _ A presentation to Mr C. Wallace, in recognition of his work in decorating the Main Town Hall for concerts, was made by Mr N. Ellis. Toasts honouring the conductor, assistant conductors, office-bearers, and helpers were proposed. Vocal, elocutionary, and novelty items were presented by Messrs M. Poulter, K. McKay, E. Richardson, A. Clarke, T. R. Thomson, J. Bennett, and F. W. Parker. Mr T. C. Somerville was the accompanist.