PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY.

Southland Times, Issue 544, 20 August 1866, Page 6

PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY.

I Of the many sources of intellectual amusement, there is perhaps none greater, or more calculated to evoke the better and softer feelings of our nature than music. During various epochs of the world's history — at the time when the civilisation of Greece and Rome receded — when most of the fine arts became neglected, and almost every vestige of intellectual culture swept away — music remained and flourished. At all times it was the welcome guest of both king and peasant. Indeed during the period known as the Dark Ages, the "gay science" was especially cultivated, and the ennobling and beneficent influence resulting from its mild rule is borne testimony by all historians. Nor has it degenerated in later times. The sublime works of Mozart, Handel, Beethoven, Spohr, and Kayden, the exqusite and refined compositions of Meyerbeer and Bellini, have alike shed an undying lustre on their memory, aud contributed to the soul-inspiring influence of " sweet music." It is with extreme pleasure, therefore, we welcome the advent of a Philharmonic Society in Invercargill. It is perhaps the most popular institution in the home country, enjoyed and appreciated by. all classes. On the contiuent, we need hardly say, similar societies are both numerous and nourishing, and in Germany especially, the great annual Gesang IPest is looked forward to by all classes as a national tribute to the Muse 3. The gentlemen who originated the idea of a local Philharmonic Society are deserving, not only of praise, but of the cordial co-operation of the community. But without the active assistance of the ladies the undertaking will not flourish. It is most essential to the success of a society like thisthatthe fair sex should come forward and eurol themselves as members. We trust, therefore, that on the occasion of the first concert of the luvercargill Philharmonic Society, wiU be witnessed what will permanently conduce to its success — a strong chorus, an efficient band, and a numerous attendance of lady performers.