AIR FORCE BAND

Southland Times, Issue 24433, 13 May 1941, Page 6

AIR FORCE BAND

VISIT TO INVERCARGILL

The appearance of the Band of the Royal New Zealand Air Force in Invercargill will probably prove one of the most notable musical events in the history of Southland. This military band is touring the Dominion to assist lecruiting for the R.N.Z.A.F. and local patriotic efforts. It is claimed that the band is one of the best in the British Empire and the only military band in the Dominion. The enthusiasm created by the appearance of the band in other parts of New Zealand is without precedent in band history in the Dominion. Throughout New Zealand all traffic in the streets and intersecting streets was held up and the cheering that broke out was something to make staid folk blink with astonishment.

Every man in the band is said to be master of one 01 - more instruments and the glowing ensemble is directed by Flight-Lieutenant Gladstone Hill. The performances of this band are marvellously colourful and their marching exhibition is a spectacle never to be forgotten. On Monday of next week hundreds of Invercargill residents will set eyes on the now famous band, and they will experience a thrill of emotion which military music and Air Force blue uniforms and marching men always provide, and they will, too, feel a sense of pride in the R.A.F. and its deeds. The band will arrive in Invercargill on Monday next at 1.10 p.m. At 2.30 p.m. there will be a recruiting parade, and at 3 o’clock the Mayor (Mi - J. R. Martin) will tender to the conductor and members of the band a civic welcome. The band will then give its ceremonial marching display, and also a programme of popular music. On Tuesday evening at the Civic Theatre the band will make its appearance on the concert, platform. At this performance the items will be outstanding. Prices are 2/- and 1/-. The box plan is at Begg’s, the booking fee being 3d.