HOSPITAL GARDENS CONCERT.

Press, Volume LVII, Issue 17104, 28 March 1921, Page 8

HOSPITAL GARDENS CONCERT.

A magnificent concert was given by the TVoolston Band* under the conductorship of Mr R. J. Estall, in the-Hos-pital Gardens, yesterday afternoon. The concert was given under tho auspices of the Royal Christchurch Musical Society, and the money raised goes to the Destitute Patients' Fund. .At least 25()b people were present, besides some 600 or 6UO patients and hospital staff. Tho Mayor, in welcoming the band, referred to tne triumphs of Mr EstalJ and his men at the recent Nelson con- • test, and said he was svire tho citizens of Christchurch were proud of their band. He uoped that before long they would have a hall in which the peoplo could have listened in comfort to this performance, should the weather have proved unfavourable. Mr S. E. McCarthy, S.M., president of the Royal Christchurch Musical Society, in proposing a vote of thanks to Mc Estall and his bandsmen for the magnificent trelt afforded to the largo audience, including the unfortunate sick, spoke of tho efforts the Society were making to secure for tho children of' the Dominion better musical education in our schools. This, he considered the birthright of every child, poor and rich alike. He was pleased to see such a large attendance of the public. He announced that the money received at the gates amounted to £lO9 19s od (since made up to £111). This would, in all probability be subsidised by the Government grant of 34s in the £. At the Christmas concert given in these grounds £250 was raised by the Musical Society. The band then proceeded to play the contest. selections, and other items: March ''Black Knight," hymn "SimeqnSimiramide," Le Prophete, Hallelujah Chorus, 20th century march. Lieut;. Osborne, of Ashburton, played the champion cornet .'jolo, "Weber's Last Waltz." The performers received a great ovation from the large gathering, showing that their services were greatly appreciated.