Hospital Entertainment.

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume IX, Issue 942, 11 May 1881, Page 3

Hospital Entertainment.

The first of a series of concerts, in aid of the funds of the Gisborne Hospital was held in McFarlane’s Hall, and was, all things considered, very successful, though there is little to call for unusual comment. Mr. W. Clarke presided at the piano the whole evening, and assisted materially in the preservation of musical rhythm and time. Ills first effort was a treat. It was placed as an although occupying a substantive portion of the programme itself. Mr. Clarke s selection was a Fantasia on the popular National airs of Sweden, with variations, by Ferdinand Ries ; and, although per-

haps somewhat lengthy, the remarkable command the performer has of the instrument, combined with a thorough knowledge of music, and brilliancy of execution —no less in the piano than in the forte passages —he kept his listeners rapt in quiet attention to the close, when a hearty round of applause rewarded him for the treat he had given them. Mr. Clarke is, evidently, a finished performer. Madame Stewart shone with her accustomed brilliancy, and soft expression, which are two of her greatest charms. Mrs. Greenwood also sang in a duet with Madam Stewart, and of the remaining ladies, Mrs. Bach, and Miss Townley opened the second part with an instrumental selection (miscalled an “ Interlude ” on the programme). Mr. J. Berry sang “ a song ” very well —in fact this gentleman sang two songs, the other as representing a “ Gentleman Amateur.” Mr. Chrisp also sung “ a song ” very creditably, and gave evidence of being a “ chip of the old block.” Readings and other songs were contributions from gentlemen, which concluded an agreeable entertainment. We might here enquire why there is so much apparent mystery, or if not mystery, doubt, as to what instrumentations are to be played, or vocals rendered ? The present practice of omitting the names of pieces and performers is perplexing to the audience, and does not affod reporters sufficient scope to do justice either to the performers, or to the selections, while we are sure if a singer will not allow his name to a programme, to appear in such a company as was gathered together on Saturday night, he must have a good excuse for its absence, —but it is very uncomplimentary. May we also remark that steps should be taken to prevent the frequent, vulgar, and extremely irritating interruptions that took place on Saturday night ? It appears that the people for whose benefit the Hospital exists, and for whom the several ladies and gentlemen labored at this concert, were represented by a few noisy larrikins in the gallery: amongst whom was a constable in uniform ; and who, if report speaks correctly did nothing to put a stop to the noise. He could hardly have done so, for the noises occurred at intervals during the whole performance, It would be better that the admittance of these noisy ones should be refused, than to invite persons on the stage to undergo gratu - tons insult.