BAND RECITAL.

Taranaki Daily News, 17 September 1917, Page 4

BAND RECITAL.

MUSICAL TREAT AT PUKEKURA PARK. Perfect spring weather prevailed yes. terday afternoon, consequently it was no surprise to find that a large crowd had gathered m beautiful Pukekura Park, wnorc the Citizens 1 Band! was giving on® » lr S r ° clt T a,s > which, Binee the advent of ilv. F. W. G. McLeod as conductor, nave become deservedly popular. It it certain that the fine programme rendered yesterday was greatly appreciated, and will further add to the band's reputation. Additional interest was given bv the appearance of the junior band and this combination acquitted itself admirably, the playing of its members, both m massed bands items and as a separate organisation, evoking unstinted praise, and showing that in the future there should be no dearth of musicians from wluch to draw. The programme submitted by the seniors was of a somewhat ambitious nature, including two such flue selections as Rossini's masterpiece ("William Tell") and "Zampa," which the band has had in preparation for several weeks, and were played in public for the first time! The action of Mr. McLeod in attempting ,such high standard music was more than justified, for both these items were capably handled, the solos being well played and the general effects good, while the sustained soft passages in "William Tell" were especially fine. The public will look forward with interest to hearing these again. The programme submitted was as follows: Massed band of over 50 players—National Anthem , and "Ola |Hundredth," hymn; seniors—grand seleoj tion "William Tell" (Rossini); eoruet solo, "A Perfect Bay" (Carrie Jacob Bond), soloist, Mr. McLeod; selection, "Zampa" (Hcrold); march, "Bravo the Anzaes" (Rimjner). The juniors made a fine showing in the selections "Gems of Scotland" (Newton), the euphonium solo by Junior Hodley being one of the features, and ,rßustieus" (Anderson), the cornet cadenza by Junior Blanchett, and the trombone solo by a diminutive bandsman (Junior Seek) beiner distinctly creditable.

The massed bands played several wellknown hymns, also the quick step "Old Companions'' (Farrell), concluding with the National Anthem, parts of which were given by each of the bands. During the afternoon a collection totalling £l9 lis was taken up in aid of the band"' funds.