OPEN-AIR CONCERTS.

Press, Volume XVIII, Issue 2668, 17 November 1871, Page 3

OPEN-AIR CONCERTS.

A meeting of gentlemen who were de- ™™ °| promoting open-air concerts by the C.V.C. Band during the summer months, and who were willing to promote the object in question by subscriptions, took place yesterday afternoon, at four o'clock, in White's Hotel. Mr W. Wilson occupied the chair. Captain Strouts said that the city had been partially canvassed, and that promises of subscriptions had been received, amounting to nearly £40. He was further of opinion that with a little energy that sum might, without much difliculty, be increased to £60, an amount sufficient to carry out the proposed concerts during the entire summer season. He thought the next thing to be done was for the subscribers to name the locality where the band should play, and likewise the hours of performance. He said that twelve members of the band, and he thought, that number sufficient, had promised to play for a very reasonable remuneration. He thought that the band should now be asked to commence playing without unnecessary delay on the strength of the promised subscriptions, and he believed there would be no difficulty in making up the requisite amount of £60. He believed that the band would commence playing under the present prospects if the subscribers present would sanction the beginning by their authority. The CHAIRMAN thought a start should be made at once, as the attraction of the music would induce so large an attendance that the necessary funds would gradually be largely augmented. A letter was read from Messrs Hanmer and Harper, apologising for their inability to attend the meeting, but suggesting that tbe band should play in the Government Domain during Saturday afternoon. The Chairman did not think Saturday the best day, for although it would no doubt suit professional gentlemen, it would be inconvenient and ineligible for business men. He was of opinion that the most favorable time to suit all classes would be the evening, and on some other day than Saturday. Mr Pratt remarked that the probable success of the half-holiday movement would remove this obstacle. The playing of the band would contribute in a large degree to the greater enjoyment of the holiday. After further discussion. Mr Pratt moved —" That for the present the day fixed upon be Saturday afternoon, from the hours of five to seven, and that the performance take place in the Domain gardens, subject to -the approval of the Government, and that the first performance shall commence on Saturday afternoon, the 25th November." Mr Slater seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. The meeting then terminated.