CHORAL UNION'S YEAR

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIII, Issue 46, 24 February 1942, Page 7

CHORAL UNION'S YEAR

The Royal Wellington Choral Union reports for 1941 the excellent support by the public as revealed by the attendances at the performances, which culminated in a record .'attendance for "The Messiah" concert at the end of the year. The accounts disclose a satisfactory financial position, the surplus of assets over liabilities being £1472 9s 3d. The committee decided to purchase further War Bonds.

During the season four concerts were presented—'Merrie England" (in aid of Patriotic Funds), "Cavalleria Rusticana," "The 'Ancient Mariner," and "The Messiah," all of which reached a very high* standard of artistic merit. A strong appeal is made for additional honorary members. Performing members increased by 45.

Appreciation of the services of the conductor, Mr. Stanley Oliver, is expressed. "His enthusiasm ■ and hard work in preparation for the' concerts enthuses the chorus and orchestra alike." Thanks are also accorded to Messrs. ~.V. E. Caldow (hon. secretary), W. O. Bock (hon. treasurer), J. E. Perry (hon. librarian). W. J. Wakelin, and Clement Howe (hon. organist) for time devoted to the union's affairs.

To celebrate the" 200 th anniversary of the first performance of Handel's "The Messiah," a performance of the oratorio will be given. for patriotic purposes in April next.