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Hawke's Bay Herald, Volume 13, Issue 1047, 11 May 1869, Page 2

The St. Kilda, which left Napier on Sunday for Wairoa, having on board ten pack bullocks and other campaign adjuncts, returned to porfc lsst evening, having been unable to communicate with the shore in consequence of southerly weather. Napieb Bbass Band. — It may be predicted that at some future time, when Scinde Island is beautified with many sumptuous edifices, and the approaches to the town are covered with substantial buildings, the fact will be recognised that the picturesque formation of Napier renders it especially well adapted for promenade music. Even at present the truth is partially realised, for music appears to be considerably patronised in Napier, seeing tbat the services of the band are required at parade, funeral, or bazaar. Neither are the bandsmen found wanting in public spirit, for, in addition to subscribing liberally to the maintenance of the band, they practice gratis two nights in each week. Now it cannot be denied that the public, for whose sole benefit the band is kept up, should do something towards its support ; and there is little doubt the public will, now it is found that, owing to the res angusta domi, from which all more or less suffer, the band must dissolve, without extraneous assistance is given. It is of importance that the band should be supported. Irrespective of other i reasons, there are two of great value : it ia admitted by all who have written on the subject, that good music exercises a humanising and refining influence ; and we know that many young mon devote to the practice of music time which otherwise might be passed in the pursuit of low and sensual indulgence. Such considerations should have great weight with those who can afford to lend a helping hand towards a worthy object. It is proposed by the band committee to obtain 100 honorary members at sixpence or a shilling each per week. Sixpence seems to us too small a sum ; doubtless 100 members at a shilling each can be fouud, to place the band upon a respectable and firm basis : at any rate, the band must be supported ; its loss would be a publio misfortune. — Communicated.