MUSICAL FESTIVAL.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XII, Issue 3798, 30 April 1891, Page 2

MUSICAL FESTIVAL.

SECOND NIGHT,

Notwithstanding the exceedingly inclement nature of the weather, a large and appreciative audience assem* bled in the Drill Hall last evening to hear the second musical entertainment in aid of the funds of the Wesleyan Church. Although the public had been led to expect a good deal, in fact something out of the ordinary, the most sanguine expectations were more than realised, and none who braved i the cold south-easterly gale which raged, regret having done so, A genuine musical treat was provided. The overtures played by the string band were again highly successful, and reflected great credit upon the conductor, Herr von Keisenberg. The choruses, rendered by a choir of sixty voices, were charmingly pretty, exquisite taste and fine harmony prevailing throughout, the most successful of all being the "Hallelujah Chow?." In the unavoidable absence through illness of Mrs Mueller, (who was a leading feature in the entertaintainment), Miss White took the solo parts, and it is to her credit we say a magnificent effect was produced. Mr ERC Coleman, who was the first on the list for a song, was received with a great ovation, and for his excellent rendition of "The Haven Aloft" was vociferously encored. The appearance of Mrs Paisons, of Wellington, on the front of tho stagd, was the signal

for a round of applause. This lady, who lias a charmingly sweet voice and a pleasing manner, delighted the audience as she rendered with artistic skill the favourite songs, "Rose Softly Blooming," "Robin Adair,'.' and "A World Between," the encores follow ing each item being irresistible. The audience would not be denied, and expressed its appreciation by showering bouquets upon the lady vocalist. No less successful was Mr IS J Hill, the favourite Wellington tenor, who held the audience fairly spellbound whilst, with the greatest clearness an J most pleasing effect, he produced "The Flight of Ages," and "We came with \he Merry May." Needless to say he was enthupiastically encored. Mr R Gant, who was in capital voice, exceileJ himself in the marvellous fidelity with which he interpreted " Calvary," one of the most appreciative items on the piogramme Mr Gant was also loudly encored. The piece de resistance of the whole entertainment, however, was the duet, "Maying," rendered by Mrs Parsons and Mr Hill. The blending of the voices was perfect, the expression exceptionally fine, and the effect simply wonderful. The audience demonstrated its appreciation in a marked manner. The entertainment, which was one of the finest ever produced in the district, was brought to a close by the singtDg of the National Anthem. We must not omit to mention that the accompaniments were played in first class style by Mr Keisenberg, Mrs Anketell, Miss Feist and Miss White, which assisted materially in making the entertainment the decided success it undoubtedly was. We understand it is tho intention to produce the entertainment on Thursday next at Greytown. Our Lower Valley friends may therefore look forward to a treat.