WITATI

Otago Witness, Issue 2669, 10 May 1905, Page 35

WITATI

A concert in aid of the funds of the WaitaK District Brass Band was given in the Good Templars' Hall last week by the " Dresden Concert Company," under the direction of Mr J. A. X. Reidle. The various items on the programme were very much enjoyed by a very appreciative audience, which was unanimous in pronouncing thi3 one of the best entertainments ever given in the district. The Waitati Band, under the couductorship of Mr J. Wil6on, played a number of selections very creditably during the evening. To attempt to criticise the various items of a programme every one of which was very well rendered would be out of place ; but a trombone solo by Mr Boyd was exceptionally well rendered; while the humorous items contributed by Mr Blackmail fairly brought down the house. The chair was occupied by Mr James Green, who spoke in a very complimentary strain of the manner in which the company had carried outl the entertainment, and called on Mr Blackmail to convey to Mr Reidle the hearty thanka o£ the members of the band. Miss Robert&haw acted very efficiently as accompanist throughout the evening. There was a largely-attended social m the Methodist Church, Waitati, on Thursday evening last. The purpose was to welcome tha Rev. J. Ward, the newly-appointed minister to the Port ChalmeTS-Waitati circuit, and, in connection therewith, to celebrate the anniversary of the church. Addresses of welcome and cheer were delivered by Mr C. Duke (the chairman), the Rev. Mr Fihlayson, and Sister Olive (who was visiting in the district). The church was beautifully decorated, and Ilia refreshments were bountiful and choice. Ma Ward replied, thanking all for the welcome so genuine and wide. A number of friends front Evansda-le and other parts of tha district was present. la addition to the addresses, whick

«rere full of interest, there was a large and varied musical programme. Four anthems were rendered with precision and taste by the local choir, under the batonship of Mr F. Hilgendorf, Mrs Hilgendorf presiding at the organ; solos by Miss Allan, Sister Olive (with xnandoln accompaniment), and Mrs Carrad (an Oamaru vocalist) ; duets by Miss Allan and Mr Mawson, and Mesdames Carrad and Hilgendorf; and a dulcimo selection by Mr Raper. The whole function was very bright and hearty — pronounced by several to be one of the best ever he'd in connection with the church. It was stated that similar functions in other parts of the cireui-t are to be held to welcome the newly-appointed minister.