Correspondence.

Press, Volume III, Issue 286, 30 September 1863, Page 2

Correspondence.

CHURCH MUSIC. TO THB EDITOR OT TUB 'PRESS.' Sin, —I think that it will be acknowledged thai the public generally were desirous of seeing ah improvemement in the music in the Episcopal Churches in this City ; nnd I believe it was with a view of supplying the want that our incumbent, the Rev. Mr. Jacobs, called by advertisement and otherwise, on members of the congregation to meet for the purpose of forming choirs. I am in a position to lay before you tlie result of these meetings, and maj state that since the preliminary meetings were held nearly thirty gentlemen have put their names down as willing and able to assist in the choral services of the several churches, and the meetings for practice since held have been attended by an average of twenty gentlemen and a like number of boys (for the soprano part). Several ladies have also assisted in the good work in n. ■nr>n/»f.if«fil wo.-r

It lias been proposed that certain scholarships should be given to the boys who are competent in remuneration of their services, and that other boys and adults should be admitted into a preliminary class in connection with tho St. Michael's Church Institute: the boys to receive a musical tuition for their services, and to be held eligible for any vacant scholarship; the adults to pay a small sum to the choir-master for his services.

Preparations are now being made in both Churches for the accommodation of the choirs; but the Committee of this branch of the Institute consider that the Vestry should corao forward to defray all expenses of books and music for the choirs; and I may say that it is probable that the gentlemen who give their knosvledge and time expect to be met fairly by those in authority. The cost of these requirements will be placed before the Vestry at its next meeting; but in the mean time you would confer an obligation by asking any one able to afford the information— What has become of the music brought out for our Churches by the Canterbury Association (worth £80), and why is it retained in Port by private liands ? Is the Colonists Society accountable for it and other music (presented), as well as a piano ? Sold, I believe, long ago. If it be now desirable to consider the feasibility of making the first permanent step toward the formation of the Cathedral choir, and if it be thought advisable to have the worship in our [ Churches at the present time conducted in a reverend manner, it behoves every member of the Church to come forward and render every assistance tliat may lie in his power to bring about so desirable a result. I am, Sir, yours Sec., C