CONCERT.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1670, 8 December 1887, Page 3

CONCERT.

The Timaru Orchestral Society gave one of their popular concerts in the Volunteer Hall, Temuka, yesterday evening. The attendance was moderate, but those present showed a keen appreciation of the musical treat provided for them. The Band, which numbers twelve performers, has already achieved more than local celebrity, and it was fully anticipated that in a professedly musical centre like Temuka they would have been greeted with a “ bumper house.” The Baud was under the leadership of Mr Wood, and Miss Lack acted as accompanist, The programme commenced with the overture from “ Guy Mannering,” the alternately lively and plaintive music of which received full justice. The audience were evidently taken with it and applauded heartily. Mr Gilchrist followed with “The Young Brigade,” which was sung

with much vigour and expression. This was also well received. The solo ” With Verdure Clad,” from Haydn’s “ Creation,” as rendered by Miss Lack, was an artistic performance, and deserved a far better receptionthanit received. Messrs Woodand Williams next played a violin duet, which was rendered with taste and precision. A selection comprising some of the charming and

ever popular airs from “ Maritana ” was the next item, and was thoroughly appreciated. The familiar music seemed to go home to all, and the piece narrowly escaped an encore. Mr Shepherd, in nigger costume, sang “ Duck-foot Sue,” and had t> respond to an encore. He was succeeded by Mr Wood, who, as a substitute for a trio set down on the programme, played a solo on the violin, accompanied by Miss Lack on the piano. It was a charming arrangement of “Irish Airs,” and was beautifully played. The gem of the evening was certainly the valse song, “Speak,” sung by Miss Lack, with an orchestral accompaniment. It had to be repeated in its entirety. The first part of the programme concluded with a cornet solo, “Les Police Polka,” by Mr Dickenson, with Band accompaniment. The air was pleasing, and Mr Dickenson’s playing of it was nearly faultless. After a brief interval the second portion of the programme was proceeded with. It commenced with the overture from “ II Barbiere Di Siviglia” by* the Band. This item was not so well received as its predecessors, although it was executed fully as well. Mr Gilchrist’s powerful voice was just suited to that taking song “ Steering Home,” and for his excellent rendition of it he received an encore, but did not respond. The next item on the programme was a violin solo by Mr Wood, but for this a cornet. solo by Mr Dickenson was subitituted. Mr Dickenson is a complete master of his instrument, and the audience had a treat. Mr Shepherd, in a most eccentric costume, sang a negro melody “ There’s something makes me smile,” and in response to the inevitable encore sang “ Betsy Snowflake.” Miss Lack, if possible, increased m favor with the audience by singing “ Piddle and I ” very sweetly. She was applauded. A grand orchestral selection from “ H Trovatore ” followed, the noticeable features of which were Mr Wood’s violin solo and a cornet solo by Mr Dickenson. The difficult selection was rendered throughout in majestic ) style. Mr Gilchrist next contributed I‘Afloat,” and was again successful

“ Transformation Music,” with violin ; solo by Mr Wood, was the best instrumental selection of the evening. It was appreciated as it ought to have been. The programme concluded with the “ Grand Vetesse ” galop —a lively piece of music that sent the audience home in high good humor. The concert, from a musical point of view, was a great success, and it is to be hoped that the Society may be induced to pay another visit to Temuka, when they may rely upon being well received. A dance was held at the conclusion of the concert. It was well attended, some 80 couple availing themselves of the opportunity of enjoying the excellent music provided. Refreshments were provided by Mr Tombs in his usual good style.