THE BESSES O’ TH’ BARN BAND.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXI, Issue 8768, 21 March 1907, Page 2

THE BESSES O’ TH’ BARN BAND.

Great Reception in MartonThe weather iuMarton on Monday and Tuesday did not look very promising for an out-of-door performance, but fortunately the sun came out yesterday and a drying but rather chilly wind* helped to remove the signs of recent rain. The fame of the Besses Baud had gone forth far and Wide, and the favorable weather drew hundreds from outside the town to the afternoon concert in Marton Park. Popular estimates differed widely as to the exact number present, lint the statement by tho officials that just over 2000 passed the gates is conclusive on the point. That such an assembly could bo brought together and afford to pay the prices charged for admission is it sure test of the reputation of the hand, and also provides good evidence? of the marvellous prosperity of the country at present. It also disproves the idea that people cannot bo expected to take an interest in anything higher than racing or football. Wo feel sure that all who heard the concerts yesterday felt amply repaid for any trouble or expense to which they had been put. For anyone but a competent musical critic to attempt to comment on the programme iu detail would be ainero impertinence, but the veriest (amateur must have realised that the Besses are in quite a different class from ordinary bands. The fine tone of the instruments, tho absolute accuracy of the time, the perfect control tho conductor lias over his band and the skill of each separate instrumentalist all combine to produce a marvellous effect. Mr Owen is not one of those conductors who appear to think that enormous energy is required to direct a baud, and a slight motion of his hand is enough to produce the strongest crescendo or as an indication of tho pianissimo passages. In tho evening the Opera House was crowded for the second performaue, which Was even more admired than that iu the Park. A great proportion of the audience wore ladies, who were unable to provide the volume of applause that the occasion demanded, but appreciation was shown of every item. Tho cornet solo by Mr P. Hallam brought down tho house, and he gave as an encore ‘ ‘ The Better Laud ’ ’ with a sweetness and effect quite unequalled. The selection from Lohengrin was also much admired, but what will probably remain lougost iu the minds of those present was the magnificent rendering of ‘ ‘ Lead Kindly Light ’ ’ as an encore. The organ-liko tone of tho hand and the restrained power of tho players was a marvellous example, of tho highest art. Balfo’s wellknown duct “Excelsior” was a popular item, and the “ Reminiscences of all Nations ’ ’ gave scope for the full power of the Baud. For the best results the Baud should undoubtedly ha hoard out of doors, as, though no hand is , less noisy, a comparatively small hall like the Marton Opera House seems to bo unable to contain the full volume of sound produced. The visit of the Besses to Marton was a triumphant success for the Baud, and we feel sure that as it continues on its tour it will meet the same well deserved welcome iu every town.