Cheerful Musicians Coming To Palmerston North

Manawatu Times, Volume 60, Issue 195, 20 August 1935, Page 5

Cheerful Musicians Coming To Palmerston North

THE BLIND INSTITUTE BAND. Expected in Palmerston North on Tuesday, October 8, tho entertainment party from the New Zealand Institute for the Blind promises to bo both novel and outstandingly good. The magnificent results achieved b,y the institute in the training of the blind arc Avell known, blit it is not often that Pahncrstoniaus have the opportunity to see an actual demonstration of them. Depressed, as avc sometimes are, by our difficulties, it is an inspiration to see how these young men make light of wliat seems tho heaviest of burdens and expect no concession on that account. Some have never scon tho light of day, some havo been blinded in youth or early manhood by unfortunate accidents or illness, whilo others have a certain amount of vision, though not enough to read or write or to earn a living without special training, but all are equally happy, independent and doing a useful day's work at tho institu to.

Most of tho band members, prior to taking up band Avork, had a thorough initial training in pianoforte and partsinging, and others as piano-tuners. The various parts are transcribed into Braille, which can effectively present the ordinary musical notation. These are learnt by heart, and difficult and intricate pieces arc played by the. band with little obvious leadership by its quiet, confident conductor, Lieut. G. W. Bowes, late of the Stli Hussars. The party, which also includes a number oC excellent vocalists and instrumental soloists, will present a programme on Tuesday, October S, at Palmerston North. The arrangements for the visit are in the hands of the Rotary Club.