HARMONIC SOCIETY.

Patea Mail, Volume IV, Issue 338, 13 July 1878, Page 2

HARMONIC SOCIETY.

Tub concert given by the Carlyle Harmonic Society in the Town Hall, on Thursday evening, was well attended. Birch’s operetta, “ The Memo Men of Sherwood Forest,” was rather a heavy undertaking for so thin and young a Society, though it contains voices equal to the requirements of the piece. To have given the leading parts all through to those best qualified to perform them, would have made it all honors for the few and put the majority of the members in the shade. Doubtless the success would have been more pronounced had such been the case, although the work would have been heavy for the few. The object of the Conductor rather seems to be the development of talent, by entrusting pieces to members who as yet have scarcely assurance enough to do their best in public, but who, by judicious coaching, may yet shine. Too groat sacrifices in ibis direction may sometimes bo made. Evidence of this was given in “ The Merrie Men of Sherwood Forest.” and parts in which efficient hands would have given eclat to the evening’s performance, were not rendered to advantage. There was such a mixing np of Robin Hood, Maid Marian, Will Scarlett, and other characters, that it would be simply impossible, by reference to the characters, to give due credit where deserved. One performer would, by the outside public, be mistaken for another. Robin Hood in one part was not Robin Hood in another. The Conductor (a gentleman) at one time represented Maid Marian, and a lady Robin Hood. Generally the first part was a success, the choruses especially being all well rendered. Individual performers, in cases, who previously had not creditably distinguished themselves, happened to have suitable parts, and acquitted themselves well, and secured approbation. Venturing, as the Society is doing, on untried ground, will, in a short time, enable the capabilities of all performers to be guaged, and the result will be the selection of pieces to suit the majority. The instrumental department wants strengthening. A new piano would do much to remedy that defect. The second part opened with the piano overture of “ Cinderella,” and was excellently executed. “ Over hill and plain,” a chorus, was well rendered. Song, “Man the Lifeboat,” which was encored, showed progress towards efficiency which more confidence would secure. This was followed by a lady singing “'For Ever” in good voice, and in a manner which secured a deserved encore. “ Raise again the bold refrain” was another good chorus, and was received with applause. “ Far Away,” song by a lady, was sweetly rendered, and received well merited encore. Violin solo, by a gentlemen who has always proved painstaking and efficient, Avon him farther approval. Chorus, “ Sweeter than the breath of summer,” Avas a creditable performance, and Avell received. “ Robin’s Return,” in spite of nervousness on the part of the lady, Avas admirably sung, the change from the grave to the lighter music at the conclusion being appropriate, and Avas loudly encored. “ I built a bridge of fancies,” sung by a very young_ lady, who may be termed a rising star in the matter of voice and musical accomplishments, fairly brought down the house. Sweetly pretty. Vociferous applause and encore. The chorus, “ Far down in yonder vale,” again shoAved the company

to advantage, and was followed by the National Anthem. The greatest credit is due to all connected with the society for the continued success. Minor differences appear to be set aside, with the object of ensuring progress. Support by the public will put the society in funds, and enable better appliances to be provided, which will result ir. tlio concerts proving greater treats. Marked progress was exhibited by several of the performers. Once a good piano is secured, the tone of the society will be improved, by reason of the greater confidence which will be given to the timid singers in knowing that the instrument is reliable. We may reasonsbly expect that the Harmonic Society will continue to grow in favor.