THE CITIZENS' BAND.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 December 1916, Page 6

THE CITIZENS' BAND.

To the Editor. Sir, —Will you grant me a small space in your journal, to put forward the claims of the bandsmen comprising our New Plymouth Citizens' Band? On Thursday evening next, I am organising a special complimentary benefit recital on behalf of the bandsmen, anil [ would like to urge the residents of this to\yn to make an effort to be present on'that occasion, or failing that, send along some small contribution. For some time the individual bandsmen have looked upon Christmas caroling as their particular ''perquisite," in return for services freely rendered throughout the year, but as I do not Care personally for this "roaming round all night" kind of method of recouping tlie men, I have" hit, upon the complimentary benefit idea as a more rational way of doing things. Since the band made its firstappearance under, my guidance on June 4 last, they have paraded for the benefit of- the general public for either a whole day, a half-day, or an evening, sufficiently often to make average work out at'considerably over week." These parades are in addition to the regular two nights per week for rehearsal. Some people may say: "Yes, but the band is their particular hobby." Quite so, bui how many of your readers possessing such a thing as a hobby care tq, literally "ride it to death ?" The family (jbnnections of the bandsmen must, under such circumstances, feel that they urd very mueh neglected at times, hence my object in endeavoring to get the public to recognise these sac rifices, and give the men and their families a iittle extra enjoyment at this season. Let me here say that it is r.ot my personal intention to share \n the proceeds of this recital. You, sir, have on various occasions referred to the good work done bv the band since my arrival in New Plymouth. I have nitu.rally heen pleased, but it is my pro[fession, and the success so far achieved, is my reward. Too ftften enconiums arc showered upon the leader, and the rani; and file arc overlooked. Now, Sir, 1 desire our citizens to recognise the rank and file by cc 'ng along in large numbers on Thursday evening next to the "Rec.," and they will hear some mom good music.—l am, etc., F. W. G. M'LEOD, L.T.S., Conductor. J