Drum and Fife.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIX, Issue 10, 2 May 1914, Page 5

Drum and Fife.

BAND FOR THE SCHOOL. TO BE FORMED FORTHWITH. A special meeting of the School Committee was held last night to consider the proposal to form a drum and fife hand in connection with the school. Present: Messrs P. Skoghmd (chairman), E. Jackson, F. A. Cramer, T. Lawson, E. W. Hancock, G. Smart, Sanderson, J. McMillan, and W. McDonald.

Mr McMillan said the cost of the necessary instruments would he about £2O, part of which w6uld he borne by the members of the band buying their own flutes, which would cost 3s 6d. He moved that steps be taken to form a drum and fife band. It would be an asset to the school, and it could help at any concert and otherwise. The idea should go ahead in view of the fact that Mr O’Leary had offered to train the boys.

Mr Smart seconded, and said that from what he could learn the children were enthusiastic on the matter. Such bands were becoming popular throughout the country, and he was sure the children of the school would be pleased with it.

Mr Jackson supported the motion. He had heard a school drum and fife band in Auckland and was much impressed with it. Mr Cramer said he had always sup ported local music and if he could do anything to help in tuition he was willing to do so. Also, members of this band might be drafted to the Municipal hand.

Mr Skoghmd said one of the chief features of the band would be that it would give the boys some musical ing. He was satisfied that though the committee might spend £2O in one amount it would soon be repaid. After a little time the hand could give n concert.

Mr Penn stated that the Headmaster had expressed himself in favor of the idea, but could not be present at the meeting. Mr Tyrer also said that Mr Buchler wmuld lend what aid be could. The motion was carried. Mr O’Leary was appointed instructor and Messrs Cramer and McMill** were appointed to make all necessary arrangements. Mr McMillan said he had been interviewed by Sergt-Major Ballinger, who stated that it was his intention to form a drum and fife band in connection with the school cadets. He (the speaker) said that if separate instruments were procured, players could easily be found. Mr Skoghmd said he presumed that the Sergt-Major’s band was more for the senior pupils. The proposed school band would be for the junior pupils. • .■; ; ■ .■ ■ A resolution was passed limiting expenditure to £2O.