Madame Carreño, Queen's Hall, May 7-'Waldstein Sonata, Beethoven. Miss Lilian Gaskell, St. Jonh's Hall, Richmond, May 7— Ballade in G minor, Brahms. Miss Tora Hwass, Æolian Hall, May 8-Ballade and Intermezzo, Op. 118, Brahms. Miss Marjorie Adam, Bechstein Hall, May 10-Capriccio on the departure of his brother,' Bach. Mr. Egon Petri, Æolian Hall, May 11-Waldstein Sonata,' Beethoven. Madame Gabrielle Leschetizky, Bechstein Hall, May 11Humoreske, Schumann. Mr. William Murdoch, Bechstein Hall, May 13-Three choral preludes, Bach-Busoni. Miss Auriol Jones, Eolian Hall, May 13-Variations on a theme in D, Brahms. Miss Evelyn Dawkin, Æolian Hall, May 14-Sonata in A major, Op. 101, Beethoven. . Suburban Concerts. The Lewisham Choral Society, under the direction of Mr. Frank Idle, gave an excellent performance of Elgar's King Olaf' at the Blackheath Concert Hall on April 18, the soloists being Miss Ada Forrest, Mr. William Maxwell, and Mr. Julien Henry. The second part of the programme consisted of Hubert Bath's Wedding of Shon Maclean,' the choir singing with full appreciation of the humour of the work. The accompaniments were played by a full professional orchestra, led by Mr. George Wilby. A highly-expressive interpretation of Elgar's 'King Olaf' brought the season of the West Norwood Choral Society to a close on April 18, and constituted a popular and artistic success of great credit to the choir and to the conductor, Mr. Percy S. Bright. Such varied numbers as 'I am the god Thor' and 'A little bird in the air' were sung with equal conviction and precision. The solo parts were taken by Miss Ketta McAllister, Mr. Richard Ripley, and Mr. Nathan Fryer, Æolian Hall, May 14-Sonata, Op. 42, Mr. Robert Buckland. Schubert. OTHER RECITALS AND CONCERTS. M. Georges Pitsch (violoncello), Bechstein Hall, May 2Sonata in D, Bach. Miss Isobel Purdon (violin) and Miss Celia Klein (vocalist), Eolian Hall, May 4-Sonata in A minor, Beethoven 'When I am laid in earth,' Purcell. 6 Mr. Arrigo Provvedi (violoncello), Steinway Hall, May 8- The concerts given recently by several of the L.C.C. Choral Unions are described in the School Music Review for June. C* On April 18, at the Hammersmith Town Hall, the Cavendish Choir held their twelfth annual concert in aid of the Hospital Saturday Fund. The well-trained choralists, under the direction of their founder and very popular conductor, Madame Grace Evans, gave a highly creditable performance of Henry Smart's Bride of Dunkerron,' which was marked by clear enunciation and sympathetic expression. The solos were sustained by Miss Barwell Holbrook, Mr. Harold Batt and Mr. William Bond. choir also sang Parry's Descend, ye Nine,' Leslie's 'Song of the Flax-spinner,' and Eaton Faning's fine 'Song of the Vikings.' The A highly-successful concert was given on April 20 by the Hampstead Garden Suburb Male-Voice Choir, under the direction of Mr. T. J. Daniel. Protheroe's 'The Crusaders' and de Rille's Martyrs of the arena' provided the best example of the choir's creditable efficiency. The programme also included Walford Davies's Hymn before action,' and Bantock's arrangement of 'Down among the dead men.' The Stroud Green Choral Association gave a concert on April 23 in St. Luke's Hall, Mayfield Road, Stroud Green. The choral items included in the programme were: Elgar's arrangement of the National Anthem, Somerville's part-song, 'Who rides for the King?' Percy Fletcher's 'Choral Rhapsody on Welsh Airs,' Elgar's Go, song of mine,' Hurlstone's choral ballad, Alfred the Great,' and Roberton's Madame Lily Jönsson, Mr. F. C. Chanin, Mr. Wilfrid Solos were contributed by part-song, 'King Arthur.' Lawrence, and Mr. W. E. Shepperd (vocalists), Miss Doris Webb (reciter), Miss Mabel Gidden (violinist), and Miss Ethel Osborn (pianist). The accompanist was Mr. C. F. Warner, and Mr. H. J. Timothy conducted. A concert was given at Leytonstone on April 25 by the formed by Mr. John Cook about a year ago. Hainault Glee and Madrigal Choir, a body of thirty voices The standard of achievement already obtained by this enterprising Choir was indicated by a programme that included the madrigals My bonny lass she smileth,' by Morley, The messenger of the delightful Spring,' by Pilkington, and Matona, lovely maiden,' by Lassus, Cornelius's So soft and warm,' Reger's 'A joyous Easter song,' Elgar's 'My love dwelt in a Northern land,' and other well-chosen numbers. The artistic aspirations that dictated this choice were borne out by excellent performances under Mr. Cook's direction. No more impressive singing has been heard in or near London recently than that of the Alexandra Palace Choral Society, under Mr. Allen Gill's direction on April 27, in Sullivan's Martyr of Antioch' and Wesley's 'In exitu Israel.' The technical beauty and the grandeur of the performance of the anthem will live long in the memory. Sullivan's In Memoriam' Overture was the chief contribution of the orchestra. The Crystal Palace Orchestral Society and Choir brought their season to a close on April 27 with a Bohemian concert, at which Hurlstone's Ballad for chorus and orchestra, 'King Alfred,' was performed efficiently and with attractive spirit under the direction of Mr. Walter W. Hedgcock. The greatest artistic success in the history of the Ealing Philharmonic Society was obtained on April 27, when the fiftieth concert of the Society took place. Under the able guidance of Mr. E. Victor Williams, the choir and orchestra gave an admirable interpretation of Coleridge-Taylor's popular cantata, 'A tale of Old Japan.' The expression, accuracy, and vocal properties of the singing more than upheld the reputation of the choir. The principals were Miss Clytie Hine, Miss Alice Booth, Mr. George Brierley, and Mr. Joseph Farrington. At the close, Mr. Williams was the recipient of a handsome presentation in honour of his fifteen years' work as conductor. The Balham Orchestral Society gave their first orchestral concert at the Parochial Hall, Balham, on May 1, under the conductorship of Mr. Allan Brown. The orchestra of fortynine performers played works by Schubert, Grieg, Handel, and others. The soloists were Miss Gertrude Maxted, Mr. Gwilym Richards, Mr. Thomas Lynes, Miss Eda Dyer (violin), and Mr. W. Hiram Henton (leader). Mr. Ernest Haywood acted as acccompanist. A concert-version of 'The Sorcerer' (Gilbert and Sullivan) and Mr. Percy Fletcher's choral fantasia on 'Die Meistersinger' were the chief works performed by the Munro Davison Choral Society at the Northern Polytechnic on May 9. The programme also included the conductor's Annabel Lee.' The singing of the choir had life and good tone, and capable solo work was done by pupils of Mr. Davison. Mr. Herbert Hodge (organist) and Miss Maud Crouch (pianist) supplied accompaniments. The closing concert of the season by the East and West Molesey Choral Society took place on May 9, when a very successful performance of Cowen's 'Rose maiden' was given, under the conductorship of Mr. Cecil Abbott, organist of the Parish Church, who is to be congratulated upon the fine work of the choir. The gem of the evening was the chorus, "Tis thy wedding morning,' which was readily encored. The principals, Miss M. Perrott, Miss W. Fink, Mr. S. Masters, and Mr. B. J. Bonor, acquitted themselves in a creditable manner. Miss Nellie Ridding led a small but good orchestra with ability. The complete cycle of Coleridge-Taylor's 'The song of Hiawatha' was sung by the Kingston Congregational Church Choir at the Assembly Rooms, Surbiton. In the absence, owing to an injury, of Mr. G. Eaton Hart, the duties of conductor were fulfilled by Mr. H. A. Wellard. The exacting task undertaken by the choir of sixty and the orchestra of twenty-five was ably carried out, and the interpretation was one of considerable spirit and expressive merit. The soloists were Miss Marion Perrott, Mr. Samuel Masters, and Mr. Bertram Mills. Scenes from Elgar's King Olaf' supplied the bulk of the programme ably carried out by the Finchley Musical Society and Orchestra at Woodside Hall recently, under the direction of Mr. Herbert Baggs. The principal artists were Mrs. W. Hollis, Mr. George Foxon, and Mr. Montague Borwell. Miss Maud Crouch was at the pianoforte. The annual meeting of the Tonic Sol-fa Association took place at the Park Hall, Cardiff, on May 10, with the Lord Mayor of Cardiff in the chair, and Lord Pontypridd, Dr. Coward, and Professor David Evans as chief speakers. Demonstrations of sight-singing and musical dictation were conducted by Mr. W. T. Samuel, and a choral programme was provided by the Cardiff Harmonic Society and juvenile choirs from the district. A full report is given in the School Music Review for June. Music in the Provinces. (BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENTS.) BIRMINGHAM. The Moody-Manners Opera Company gave a week's operatic season at the Prince of Wales Theatre, from April 22 to April 27, the only novelty connected with their visit being the first performance here of the dramatised version of Mendelssohn's oratorio 'Elijah.' Much interest was attached to this event inasmuch as Elijah' has always been-ever since it was first given here in 1846, under the composer's direction-the most attractive oratorio for local audiences. In some ways the stage production proved a disappointment, as there was little action and the few dramatic instances fell somewhat flat, the only really stirring episode being the scene with Elijah and the Widow, which was exceedingly well enacted. Mr. Graham Marr quite carried off the honours. his magnificent and earnest singing in the rôle of the Prophet being remarkably impressive. The chorus was augmented by a contingent of local choristers culled from various choral Societies, to whom the choral portion of the oratorio offered no difficulties. other operas given were Carmen,' Faust,' Maritana,' 'Tannhäuser' and 'The Bohemian Girl.' The The great musical event of the month was the Midland Musical Competition Festival, an account of which appears in the Competition Festival Record. The eighth annual season of the Theatre Royal Promenade Concerts will be held from June 3 to June 22, under the direction of Mr. Max Mossel, and under the conductorship of Mr. Landon Ronald as hitherto. The scheme is an interesting one, and of special interest will be the first performance here of the 'Jena' Symphony. Elgar will be represented by his two Symphonies. BOURNEMOUTH. But a momentary cessation of musical activity is entailed by the ending of the winter season, for the summer season treads close upon its heels, and although during the next few months there will be an appreciable slackening in matters artistic, yet sufficient will be going on to occupy the attention of that section of the public which is unable to follow any but sedentary pursuits. In connection with the future, it would not be out of place at this point to emphasise the fact that on May 13 a vital reorganization of the Borough's musical arrangements came into force. The double-handed' instrumentalists are now done away with, and from henceforward the Municipal Orchestra and the Municipal Military Band will be two totally distinct bodies. The financial considerations attaching to this change have been very complex, but great credit is due to Mr. Dan Godfrey that he has been enabled to launch his scheme upon what he hopes will prove to be a profitable basis; it would be superfluous, of course, to speak of the vastly increased artistic efficiency that will arise out of the new policy. Adverting to the concluding weeks of the winter series of concerts, allusion must first be made to the Symphony Concerts. At the request of many subscribers to these excellent concerts a Beethoven programme was put forward at the thirtieth Symphony Concert on April 25, the very interesting selection of works comprising the Egmont Overture, the C minor Symphony, the Rondino in E flat for wood-wind and horns (a charming yet little-known composition that is much appreciated in Bournemouth), and rewarded by some very fine orchestral playing, and by a the G major Pianoforte concerto. The large audience was delightfully expressive performance of the Concerto at the hands of Mrs. Farnell-Watson, the talented artist who is associated with Mr. Hamilton Law in the direction of the Bournemouth School of Music. Interest in the two remaining concerts was concentrated upon Glazounow's Symphony No. 7, in F, Wagner's Siegfried Idyll,' Beethoven's Ninth Symphony (the choral section omitted), and the performances of Godard's 'Concerto Romantique' for violin and two movements of Reinecke's Harp concerto by Miss Leila Doubleday and Miss Jacoba Wolters (of the Municipal Orchestra) respectively. The first-named artist hardly sustained the reputation she had already won for herself here; Miss Wolters, on the other hand, surpassed all her previous efforts. For the rest, one can only briefly mention the visits paid by Mischa Elman (orchestral concert), Theodore Byard, Stella Carol, Tivadar Nachez (orchestral concert), and Mr. Vernon Warner, to whom fell the rather thankless task of winding up the season. Lastly, reference must be made to the spirited performance by the combined forces of the Municipal Choir and Orchestra of the concert version of Gounod's Faust.' The music, of course, did not put the capabilities of the choir to any very severe test, but the singing was expressive, and the work of the orchestra was exceedingly fine. The soloists were Miss Emily Breare, Miss Marie Stiven, Mr. Alfred Heather, Mr. David Brazell, and Mr. Charles Tree. Mr. Godfrey's admirable control of both choir and orchestra was particularly marked. (Ambroise Thomas), brought out the dramatic capabilities of the choir, whose good tone and balance were further heard in pieces by Sullivan, Müller, Brahms, Reichardt, Maunder and Dudley Buck. The event was made specially important by the appearance of Mr. William Henley, violinist, whose remarkable virtuosity was displayed in somewhat small pieces by Tchaikovsky, Bazzini, Strelezki and Vieuxtemps. On May 12, the choir of the United Methodist Free Church, Ebrington Street, augmented to a hundred voices, sang choruses by Handel, Mendelssohn and Sullivan, Mr. W. Quiller conducting, and Mr. L. Liscombe playing the organ. The only fault to be found with the final symphony concert given by Mr. R. G. Evans on April 24, was the liberality of the programme. As the first number the second Symphony of Beethoven was interpreted with true musicianly feeling. Then, after some songs by Vaccaj and Nevin, sung with intense power and beauty by Miss Eileen Buck, came the lengthy and emotionally exhausting Concerto in B flat minor of Tchaikovsky for pianoforte and orchestra. Miss Florence Smith interpreted the solo with wonderful resource, contributing in eloquent and sincere manner as fine a performance as could be The Bristol Choral Society on April 20 gave a miscel- desired. After this the 'Tannhäuser' Overture was played. laneous concert at Colston Hall before a large attendance. The band of the Duke of Cambridge's Own Middlesex Band and choir numbered 500, Mr. George Riseley Regiment gave a popular concert on May 1, conducted by directing the performance with skill. The choir were Bandmaster W. F. Hawkins. According to custom, Mr. heard in a fine interpretation of Stanford's Revenge' and J. W. Newton compiled the programme of his final symphony Elgar's From the Bavarian Highlands.' Miss Lucy Nuttall concert at Stonehouse on May 9 by plébiscite. The result was the solo vocalist, and afforded gratification by the charm showed that among the symphonies played during the with which she gave her songs. Herr Bachus, the pianist, season-Mozart's Jupiter,' Dvorák's From the New displayed his great ability in compositions by Brahms, World,' Schumann's No. 1, and Rubinstein's 'The Ocean' Chopin and Liszt. The band, with Mr. Harold Bernard as the last-named was the most popular. The King leader, executed the 'Jena' Symphony in C major, which Stephen' (Beethoven), 'De Phèdre' (Massenet), and 'Der Professor Stein believes to be an early effort of Beethoven's. Freyschütz' Overtures were beaten in the ballot by Wagner's It is a melodious production, and won much applause. Rienzi'; and among suites and characteristic pieces Boellmann's 'Variations Symphoniques' for violoncello and orchestra received most votes. This latter was therefore repeated with much effect, with Mr. C. G. Pike as soloist. Miss Georgie Andrews sang songs. BRISTOL. On April 24 Bristol New Philharmonic Society held a concert at the Victoria Rooms and gave satisfaction by excellent performances of Haydn's Spring' (from 'The Seasons'), Debussy's 'Blessed Damozel,' and Stanford's Songs of the Fleet.' The principal vocalists were Miss Dorothy Silk, Miss May Shepherd, Mr. David Appleyard, and Mr. Percy Heming. Mr. Harold Bernard was leader of the orchestra, and Mr. Arnold Barter was an efficient conductor. The Clifton Male-Voice Choir gave a gratifying concert at Redland Park Hall on April 25, and, under the direction of Mr. Walter P. Price, sang a well-arranged programme of part-songs, the performance being varied by instrumental pieces. There was a pleasing concert at St. John's Parish Hall on April 29, when the Clifton Choral Society, under the direction of Mr. A. Ernest Hill, sang a number of glees and part-songs in a creditable manner. These were much appreciated by a numerous audience. Some songs were contributed by Miss Grace Baldwin, Miss Margaret Dennis, Miss Anstey, Mr. E. Redwood, and Mr. E. R. Hill, and there were solos by Mr. Eric Lewton (violoncello) and Mrs. Stanley Hill (pianoforte). At the annual concert of the choir of St. Matthew, Kingsdown, in Redland Park Hall on May 2, Mendelssohn's 13th Psalm was carefully given, Miss Marjorie Lockey taking the solos. A miscellaneous selection followed, there being songs by Miss Lockey, Mr. Lionel Venn, and Mr. A. W. Packman, and compositions by a band of which Mr. Edwin Jacobs was the leader. Mr. A. H. Tocknell directed the performance with ability. DEVON AND CORNWALL. THE THREE TOWNS, A violin recital was given by Miss Grace Thynne on April 25, her most important item being the Symphonie Espagnole' of Lalo. On the same day, Mr. Reginald Waddy closed his series of organ recitals in Emmanuel Church with a programme compiled by plébiscite, the choir singing pieces by Bullock, Stainer and Handel. To close the series of Plymouth Library Lectures, on April 27, Mr. Waddy gave a paper on 'Elizabethan Lyrics,' with copius illustrations performed by members of Emmanuel Choir and others. OTHER DEVONSHIRE TOWNS. Okehampton Choral Society of sixty voices sang 'Hiawatha's Wedding-feast,' Mendelssohn's Hear my prayer,' and Gaul's The singers,' on April 24, with good attack and balance. Mr. S. J. James conducted. Mr. W. J. Bown, conductor of Newton Abbot Choral Society, obtained a good performance of "The Messiah' on April 25, on which date also the Axe Vale Musical Society performed Barnby's The choir, Rebekah' with the same Mendelssohn motet. numbering forty voices, sang with precision, conducted by Mr. W. C. Walton, and Miss V. Shapcott led the band. The Messiah' on The Sidmouth Choral Society sang April 30, conducted by Mr. J. A. Bellamy, with a band led by Mr. R. H. Passmore, and the Misses Carter and May Currie, Messrs. H. Turnpenney and Charles Knowles as principals. 'Judas Maccabæus' was sung by the Exmouth Choral Society on May 1; Dr. D. J. Wood was at the organ, and Mr. Raymond Wilmot conducted; and Crediton Musical Society gave a miscellaneous concert on May 2, with Mr. Dean Trotter as conductor. The Paignton Quartette In every direction the music season is drawing to a close, contributed glees to the programme of a successful concert and may now indeed be considered ended. The season of direc by Mr. E. C. Drew, on May 6. Good choral work open-air music is in Plymouth a prominent feature of the list of was achieved by the Exeter Choral Society in performances attractions, and this year it will be more comprehensive than of Parry's 'The Pied Piper of Hamelin' and Cliffe's 'Ode to usual; but this description of music cannot be considered the North-East wind' (first performance in Exeter). This educational, hardly indeed serious, from the point of view of art. Society, which is worthy of encouragement, sang with Only two belated choral events remain to be recorded this welcome vitality as well as accuracy. Mr. Allan Allen month. On May 4 the Plymouth Orpheus Male Choir gave conducted. Gaul's 'The Holy City' was given on May 10 their spring concert, and performed the test-piece which they by the Buckland Monachorum Choral Society, with assistance are preparing for the National Eisteddfod, Jenkins's Deep from Miss Ethel Pascho, Miss Margaret Toop, and Jordan's banks.' The descriptive song, The Tyrol' | Rev. E. J. White. LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT. Dr. D. J. Wood's Orchestral Society at Exeter gave their spring concert on April 22, when they were enterprising The Church Choir Association has completed the enough to undertake a Beethoven Symphony (No. 4); preliminary arrangements for the ensuing annual Festival in a 'Miniature Suite' by Eric Coates, the overture to Stanford's November next, an important event into which many "Shamus O'Brien,' and the Scherzo from Mendelssohn's considerations enter. music to A Midsummer Night's Dream' were also given, Mr. C. E. Bell leading. Miss Beatrice Spencer was the vocalist. Beethoven's Overture, Leonore,' No. 3, was played by the Teignmouth Orchestral Society on April 25, led by Mr. S. Harris and conducted by Mr. A. J. James. Other numbers were Haydn's Oxford' Symphony and Meyer-Helmund's 'Sérénade Rococo.' A new organ was opened at Honiton on April 25 by Mr. Arthur Trevithick. The choir of Plympton Congregational Church on May I contributed the most important numberMendelssohn's Hear my Prayer'-to a sacred concert organized by Miss Winifred Blight, organist. A recital given by Mrs. Bruce Spooner (pianoforte), Miss Gwyneth Plumbe (violin), and Mr. H. Warner (vocalist) at Yealmpton, on April 25, was successful, and on the same date the Cornwood Band, conducted by Mr. G. Crompton, gave a concert with help from various artists. CORNWALL. The Truro and Falmouth Philharmonic Societies 6 continue to work in collaboration, though they have this season severed in respect of conductor. Rev. Canon Corfe remains in that post with the Falmouth party, and Mr. J. H. Williams has taken the baton of the Society in the Cathedral City. The members assist each other with goodwill, and to that end select the same work for performance; thus King Olaf' was given on April 14 at Truro, and on April 15 at Falmouth, both events being successful. Selections from The Creation were sung by Camborne Wesley Choir on April 18, conducted by H. V. Pearce, and at a concert given by the Gunnislake Male Choir on April 24, opportunity was taken to make a presentation to the conductor, Rev. W. W. Bickford, who is leaving the neighbourhood. Maunder's cantata, 'Olivet to Calvary,' was well performed on April 24 by Saltash Baptist Choir, assisted by members of the Mutley and Mount Gold Wesleyan Choirs, conducted by Mr. C. M. Clarke, and on April 30, Mrs. C. Rawling's Saltash Singing Class sang part-songs and choruses. The enterprising little choral Society at Linkinhorne, which is ably worked by Rev. C. C. C. Bosanquet, gave a very good performance of Rogers's cantata, The Garden,' on May 2; and the same date was chosen by Newquay Choral Society for performances of 'The song of the Vikings' and part-songs, conducted by Mr. L. N. Bradley. Penzance Orchestral Society has this season numbered thirty-five players, who gave highly-enjoyable interpretations on May 3 of Schubert's overture Rosamunde,' Luigini's Egyptian Suite, two of the Brahms Rhapsodies, and Sibelius's 'Valse Triste.' Messrs. A. W. Robinson, trio, No. 7. Mr. Walter Barnes conducted. Helston Band gave concerts on May 5 in aid of the 'Titanic' Disaster Fund. GLASGOW. will for the second time lend distinction to the Festival; he The concert given by the Liverpool Village Choir in the Sun Hall on April 20 attracted a large audience, who had the additional enjoyment of feeling they had provided substantial assistance towards the fund for taking the eighty-five girls and boys to the Paris Competitions. By their their class, the children showed qualities of tunefulness and singing of German's Beauteous morn,' the test-piece for training which should carry them far towards success. Another feature of the concert was the admirable singing of the well-known 'prize choir,' the Manchester Orpheus I watch' and 'It's oh, to be a wild wind,' and Hatton's Glee Society, conducted by Mr. Nesbit, in Elgar's 'Feasting, When evening's twilight,' an example of the Liverpool composer's work which will long survive. there were songs by Miss Winifred Lewis, Mr. Charles Tree, In addition and a speech from Sir William H. Lever, who admitted his knowledge of music was confined to the National Anthem. to City Police Band has been filled by the appointment of The vacant post of conductor and bandmaster to the Mr. Charles R. Bicks, late bandmaster to the 2nd Battalion Highland Light Infantry. Mr. Bicks, who comes Liverpool with a high record of useful service at home and abroad, has an opportunity of making his new position as a public functionary even more notable, by widening the musical outlook of the programmes as well as by maintaining the high efficiency of the Band. The dates of the Philharmonic Society's twelve concerts for next season have already been fixed. Sir Frederic Cowen, the Society's conductor-in-chief, will conduct six concerts, the other six being directed by Messrs. Mengelberg, Landon Ronald, Sir Henry Wood, Fritz Steinbach, and Harry Evans. last named, who will conduct Elijah With regard to the engagement of the concert, general satisfaction has been given by the committee's at the closing recognition of Mr. Harry Evans's personality as a musician which in combination have brought the Welsh Choral Union and unmistakable genius as a choral conductor: powers to a unique position of more than local fame. in commission, and various players have given recitals on The City organistship has for the present been placed those Saturdays when the great hall is not otherwise engaged by Assize or other business. Since Mr. Edwin H. Lemare's masterly recitals in April, interesting performances have been given by Mr. W. Faulkes, Mr. H. Walton, Mr. Branscombe and Mr. Burstall, who are to be followed by Mr. Goss Custard, Dr. Kendrick Pyne, and Mr. C. W. Perkins. It is probable that the recitals will be temporarily suspended in July, in view of the proposal to remove the central wooden flooring of the Hall in order to exhibit the sunk tessellated pavement, which is usually kept covered. The Easter Concert of the Glasgow Bach Choir (Mr. J. Michael Diack, conductor) took place in the Cathedral on April 23. The Choir's performances almost invariably attract large audiences, and on this occasion the ancient Among recent events of the rapidly-waning season was the building was practically filled. The programme comprised successful vocal recital given on April 16 by Madame Eva the Chorale cantata Christ lay in death's dark prison,' Warren, an accomplished lieder singer, who was assisted by the Church cantata 'I know that my Redeemer Miss Vera Fitzsimons (pianoforte), Mr. Fridolin Weingaertner liveth,' the Easter oratorio, 'Now come, let us (violin), and Mrs. Fitzsimons, a tactful accompanist. Another hasten,' and the Easter hymn, 'Now let our hearts interesting function was the vocal and pianoforte recital given with joy be filled.' A certain jerkiness marred in the Rushworth Hall on May 10 by Miss Mary Turner, some extent several of the choral interpretations, but with whose artistic vocal and instrumental items were ably this qualification the singing of the Choir was highly supplemented by her pupils, Miss Hilda Turner, in two praiseworthy. Of the soloists, Miss Isabel Wilkie, the movements of Grieg's A minor Pianoforte concerto, and contralto, easily carried the honours. Much of the pleasure Miss Mildred Ledsham and Miss Alice Stalker in songs, and of the concert was due to Mr. Herbert Walton's reniarkably by a choir of ladies. fine playing of the organ accompaniments. The only other notable event of the month was the second Choral (competition) Festival, on May 3 and 4, referred to elsewhere. to The Fairfield Glee and Madrigal Society, which is composed of between forty and fifty ladies and gentlemen, conducted by Mr. Arthur Davies, gave on April 23 agreeable instances of the good work of earnest amateurs. Their At the closing concert of the Anfield Orchestral Society on April 24, a new Romance for violin, by Mr. William Faulkes, proved an interesting and musicianly work as played by Miss Mabel Stocks, a clever young violinist and a member of this large amateur orchestra which Mr. Faulkes so ably directs. The Society continues to improve in tone and ensemble. No fault is to be found with the character of the music performed. The chief feature of the works performed by the Carl Rosa Opera Company during their week's visit to the Royal Court Theatre, commencing April 24, was the revival of Boito's 'Mefistofele' after an interval of twenty-five years. This later production was an evidence of the completeness in preparation which this company bestow on their presentations, and the work was exceedingly well put on. Whether the revival meets the present public taste is a moot point. The opera is less inspirational than spectacular. The principal parts were in safe hands with Miss Ina Hill as Marguerite and Helen, Miss Maude Albright as Martha, Mr. Arthur Winckworth as Mefistofele, and Mr. Frank Christian as Faust. Mr. Eugene Goossens conducted. The little company of bandsmen who immortalised themselves by their fortitude and devotion amid the horrors of the 'Titanic' disaster were directly associated with Liverpool in Mr. Fred Clarke, the double-bass player, a young musician of remarkable promise who had a place in both the Philharmonic and Akeroyd Symphony Orchestras. His mother and sisters were largely dependent upon him for a home, and the sympathy felt for them took practical shape at a concert given for their benefit in the Philharmonic Hall on May 10, by a number of instrumental colleagues in both Orchestras. Conducted by Mr. V. Akeroyd, a commendable interpretation was given of the Eroica' Symphony and Mendelssohn's Hebrides' Overture. A brilliant pianist, Madame Marguerite Stilwell (Mrs. Alfred Ross), played Chopin's Andante Spianato and Polonaise, Op. 22, and Miss Amalfi, a local mezzo-soprano whose career is opening with great promise, exhibited her beautiful voice in several songs. · Sir Charles Santley was recently in Liverpool on the occasion of the funeral of his brother, Mr. William Santley, who had for many years been identified with the firm of provision merchants in whose service Sir Charles originally essayed a business career. Mr. William Santley was well known and highly esteemed for his personal qualities. At one time he was a tenor singer of considerable local repute, and otherwise connected with musical circles. The local musical profession has lost an old member in Mr. Richard Burgess, organist of Christ Church, Sefton Park, for the past twenty-seven years. He had an apoplectic seizure while seated at the organ during morning service on Sunday, May 12, and died on the following Tuesday. Mr. Burgess had formerly been organist of Holy Trinity, Walton Breck, a post at one time held by Mr. W. T. Best. MANCHESTER AND DISTRICT. A chronicler of Manchester's musical life during the past month would be constrained to admit that the phrase so frequently heard on the Cotton Market, 'Nothing doing,' most aptly fits the circumstances. Fugitive concerts have been given, but up to the time of going to press the annual meeting of only one of our premier Societies has been held-the 'Gentlemen's Concerts'--which reported a small credit balance. been chairman of future, Mr. Broadfield added: Mr. Balling will give us old favourites with interesting novelties.' Among the artists already engaged are Eugen d'Albert, Siegmund Feuermann, Campbell McInnes, Plunket Greene, Elena Gerhardt, Paula Hegner, and Doris Woodall. At the Royal Manchester College of Music a very important post became vacant owing to the retirement of Miss Fillunger. The authorities have tackled the situation boldly by appointing a singer of such universal renown as Miss Marie Brema, probably the most challenging figure in the ranks of women singers of our time. Such a choice is big with future promise, should opera take firm root in Manchester. The proceeds of the last series of Brodsky Quartet Concerts yielded rather under £50 (much less than the average of past years), so that expenses must be curtailed next year in order that the Students' Sustentation Fund may not be so seriously crippled. The authorities of the College have granted the use of the College Hall for these concerts, a return thus being made to the room in which the earliest of these now famous Chamber Concerts were held. On March 16 Mr. Egon Petri paid us another flying visit, the occasion serving also to introduce to us his sister, Miss Helga Petri, who bids fair to become a lieder-singer of much distinction. A highly spirited performance of Verdi's Un ballo in maschera' was given by the Manchester School of Music under the direction of Mr. Albert J. Cross on April 19. Vitality characterized the work of all who assisted, and at the same time the proper musical bounds were observed. The vocalism was refined. The performance, which was an all-round success, was repeated on April 20, and again, in aid of the 'Titanic' Fund, on May 9. In organ-music we had a distinguished visitor in M. Bonnet, and at a meeting of the Royal Manchester College of Music Club on May 20, Dr. Keighley gave an illustrated lecture on the Organ-music of Max Reger.' Amongst the eight items played were the beautiful Melodia in B flat from Op. 59, and the splendid Fugue in D. NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE AND DISTRICT. On Wednesday, April 17, the Darlington Choral and Orchestral Society gave their second concert of the season. The chief number was Coleridge-Taylor's 'Death of Minnehaha,' which received a tasteful performance. The choir contributed also some part-songs, and the orchestra was heard in Tchaikovsky's 'Casse Noisette' Suite, three dances from Elgar's 'Bavarian Highlands' Suite, and other items. Mr. T. Henderson conducted, and the Hon. Mrs. Julian Clifford was the soloist. The report of the young Newcastle Philharmonic Orchestra has been issued, and shows a deficit of over one hundred pounds. This is not an the transference of the concerts to a large hall, the fact that encouraging outlook for orchestral music in the North, but concerts can only be given in the afternoon, and the increased financial responsibilities necessitated by an adequate series of rehearsals, naturally made the possibility of a deficit a greater one. But good work has been done, excellent and wellbalanced programmes have been presented, and the audiences have steadily increased in number. The committee feel that they are justified in arranging for another series of concerts next winter. SHEFFIELD. The senior and junior branches of the Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra gave two successful concerts in the Albert Hall. That given on April 19 brought to a first hearing in Sheffield the newly-found Jena Symphony, ascribed to Beethoven. The work was played with notable finish, and the members were also heard to advantage in Mr. E. J. Broadfield has now German's 'Gipsy' Suite and Weber's 'Euryanthe' Overture. this Society for twenty-one years, and took occasion The junior section played correctly and with carefullyto remind the meeting that the Society was in existence, and gave concerts in the years 1740-50, and although the precise date of its foundation was somewhat obscure, it could with confidence be stated that it was the oldest musical Society in the North, if not in the United Kingdom. Suitable acknowledgment The Chesterfield Orchestral Society is now a well-equipped was made of Sir Henry Wood's services as the Society's body, capable of performing advanced conductor during the past three seasons. Turning to the conductor, Mr. J. F. Staton, leans to the modern and observed expression the same composer's 'Nell Gwyn' Dances, and tackled the difficulties of his 'Hamlet' tonepoem with surprising ability. The soloists were Miss Sarah Birch, Madame Isabelle Foister, and Mr. W. A. Hamer. Mr. J. H. Parkes conducted both concerts. music. The |