Reviews

Southern Cross, Volume 1, Issue 15, 8 July 1893, Page 10

Reviews

THE QUID A MUSICAL: FOLIO

The district in which we reside has developed an eclectic taste for mnsic, both vocal and instrumental. This is owing probably to the rigour of our climate, which has made, most forms of outdoor amusement which are dependent upon fine weather of so uncertain a nature that we are thrown back upon outdoor amusements for our social enjoyment. Consequently the musical abilities of our young people have been developed and there are few of them who do not either sing ,or play an instrument. Any publication, therefore, which contains a variety of choice vocal and instrumental music |is sure to meet with a hearty welcome, and the first number of the “ Ouida Musical Folio,” published in Dunedin by Messrs C. Begg and Co., some two years ago, speedily found a place in almost every home. We have received a copy of the second number, just published, audit fully sustains the promise of the first, containing as it does an excellent and varied selection of pieces, some of which have already attained some popularity. The “ Stephanie Gavotte” and “ March of the Demons,” are instrumental pieces, of considerable ' merit, and are yet within the scope of ordinary performers on the piano and organ. There are a couple of Blockley’s tuneful compositions in “ The Arab’s farewell to his steed, >f and Hearts and Homes,” and the popular duet, “ Come o’er the Moonlit Sea.” Mendelssohn’s “ Oh for the Wings of a Dove,” and “ Stephen’s Glover’s “ Charity,” ably sustain the varied element. Gluck’s “ Millwheel,” and the old German song, “ In Cellar Cool,” popularised by Mr Santley, also find a place. “ The Scottish Bluebells ” and “ The Irish Emigrant,” satisfy the national craving, and there are several other pathetic melodies with choruses, such as “ There’s no one like Mother to Me,” fand “ The Cricket on the Hearth.”

The number is very creditably printed, in good type, by Messrs Payton and Corrigan, of Dunedin, and we venture to think it is the most comprehensive collection which has come under our notice. The book is a model of economy : the paice is only Is, and we predict for it a iarge and satisfactory sale such as it deserve#.