VIVA ITALIA.

Gisborne Times, Volume XLV, Issue 4057, 11 October 1915, Page 2

VIVA ITALIA.

RECORD SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT, While contributing so generously to tlio war chest and relief funds, Gisborne can still spare something to help along the Allies, who are so loyally bearing their part in the present great struggle for liberty and: justice. There was a record attendance at His Majesty’s Theatre last night at the sacred concert organised by Messrs. Vita Bros, in aid of the Italian Red Cross fund. Every available seat in the building was occupied, and many had to be content with standing room. The programme submitted was one of the most enjoyable ever put on at a Sunday night concert here. The entertainment was opened by the National Reserve Band, 29 strong, under the baton of Mr. J- Davies, playing the British and Italian national anthems. The Band was then heard in Greenwood’s melodious overture, “The Silver Star,’’ which was most capably played and very keenly enjoyed. A. feature of the concert was the work of a strong orchestra, 25 strong, comprising the full force of the PathoPictures, Opera House, and World’s Pictures musicians, as well as several members of the Orchestral Society. They were first heard in Edward German's “Grand.—March _ Coronation,” which was a delightful piece of orchestration. Mr. Mainland Foster wielded the baton, and' got the very most out. of the talented band of instrumentalists he had the good fortune to have under him. The second number by the orchestra was Mozart’s overture, “Directoire,” which provided another delightful musical treat. It is a pity such an orchestra cannot he hoard more frequently in Gisborne. It would certainly serve a good purpose in educating the public taste to a love for music of the highest class. An enjoyable concert programme was also submitted as follows;—Song, “Fiona,’’ Mr. R. Bell; song, “Return, o,Gcd of Hosts,” Miss Daisy Keiha; song. “Belgian Love Song,” Mr. S. Nelson; song, Tosti’s “Good-bye,” Mrs. F. I. Daniell ; song, “Angels Guard Thee,” Mr R. Watson; song, “The Children’s Home,” Miss M. Hale. Tlie accompaniments were tastefully played by Mrs. Grayson and Messrs. Salvatore Cinrino and J. Dods.

During the evening, Mr. Watson announced, on behalf of Messrs. Vita Bros., that the silver coin collection at the door had realised) the handsome sum of £27 4s 7d, which constitutes a record amount for a Sunday night concert in Gisborne. _ Messrs. Vvtn Bros, wished to heartily thank tlie public for so liberally patronising the concert and the performers for .so kindly giving tlieir services on behalf of ..the Italian Red Cross f und. The sum raised at the concert will be forwarded to the; Italian. Consul at Wellington, Mr. Leonard H. Tripp, for transmission to Italy.