Whangarei To Have Town Orchestra

Northern Advocate, 5 July 1939, Page 4

Whangarei To Have Town Orchestra

‘•I have been 'requested by a number cf musicians to form a municipal orchestra, .and would ask the council if it would agree to the suggestion,” stated a letter from Mr Albert Dobson received by the borough council last night. Mr Dobson stated that he had conducted such an orchestra some years ago, but it had gone into recess with a number of players leaving for the Groat War. The previous conditions were that the orchestra was allowed the free use of the’ Town Hall stage once a week for practice, with the granting of a small subsidy from the council Cor music. In return, the orchestra gave its services as required by the council for municipal functions. Councillor Was In It. “This, is one of the things we ought to favour fully,” said the Mayor, Mr W. Jones, who remarked that such an institution would be of great value. “Years ago we had a very fine orchestra,” he went on. Cr. D. L. Smcdley: A very fine one —I was one of them!

The Mayor: Is that the reason? Mr Jones considered that there were several types of functions at which She orchestra would prove its worth. The previous orchestra had been given a grant of £ls annually, and he suggested that the same figure should again be allowed for the first year together with the use of the Town Hall stage. Cr. J. W. Parkin considered that a “wait and see” policy should be adopted before making a grant of this figure. He suggested a grant of £B. Cr. Srnedley said the orchestra would be of great value, especially in view of forthcoming Centennial functiohs. Cr. Parkin’s suggestion was embodied in an amendment, seconded by Cr. L. Reynolds. No Opposition To Band. “Is this in opposition to the Municipal Band?” .asked Cr. Reynolds. . There v/ere cries of “No!” “We could not take this orchestra out on the street to give us a concert,” remarked the Mayor. The amendment was 'lost, and the Mayor’s original suggestion carried in the form of a motion.