THE AUSTRAL BAND.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVII, Issue 81868, 18 October 1906, Page 2

THE AUSTRAL BAND.

The Austral Band arrived in New Plymouth oft Wednesday, and were met and welcomed by Adjutant Macau lay and members of the local Salvation Army corps. The band is composed of 21 young lady performniers, under the command of Brigadier Yealc. At the Theatre Royal ill the evening' a large audience greeted 'lie baud, when a function, unique and interesting in character, was given. The playing by the band was the principal feature of the even" ing, and proved what careful training will do in the way of providing first class music. The opening item, "Climbing Up," was ;v fine effort, which pleased ihe audience. Another good selection was "While the Days are Going By." Perhaps the best item given by the band was "The Tompest'' ("Peace, Be Still"), which the performers played • with marked expie.-sion. The singing company contributed sever?/; solos, and showed evidence of good voice culture. The medley,' "Shining as a Star," was a very cffectivo effort of vocalism, the blending of the voices, which are full and rich, being- most artistic," Brigadier Yejle contributed a solo, "it Takes Doing," being assisted in the chorus by the company. Recitations were alio contributed by several members. "Lead, Kindly Light," played and sung by the company, the audience standing in the meantime, concluded the concert.

Brigadier Veale, in thanking the audience and friends of the band for the kindnesses shown during the visit. stated that tile band would probably return to New Plymouth at an early date, when he hoped they would. If able to spend a week o»d in Salvation Army work,