Band of Hope Competitions.

Taranaki Herald, Volume L, Issue 12649, 6 September 1904, Page 3

Band of Hope Competitions.

' it is gratifying to the promoters of these contests that their efforts last year were so well rewarded as to induce them to hold another series this year. Indeed, they have d-joidod to make them an annual affair. Tn-j educational value of such competitions cannot be overstated. The !!amo of youthful ambition in the direction of the higher realms of art and intellectual attainment burns loniuwhat feobly. This is probably due, not, to the fact that our young people lack tho necessary ability and desire, but to the dearth, which has existed in the past of the requisite stimulus and opportunity. Both these patent iVctcrs havo arrived, and it is to be hoped that the fullest advantage will be taken of them. Tho syllabus for the competitions to be held in November is interesting. The various sections are well chosen, j and afford ample scope for local and J other talent, for, of eoxirse, the contest is not conh'ned to New Plymouth. Last yeaa-'s contest' drew competitors from tall parts of the" district, and tho interest has been so well sustained that uumbers of inquiries from a distance, relative io the next gathering, havo already come to hand. Section. 1 will be devoted to instrumental musicSolo, piano ; duet, piano ; violin solo, with piano accompaniment. These arcj popular accomplishments and b<: the means of inducing a number of ] competitors to take part. A special I feature has been 'introduced into this < section, and is set down as "Novelty Instrument, open to all classes." Thisi means that the competitor may usu anything that originality inspires or i otherwise from which anything-, approaching the semblance of a tune can be produced. This is certainly novel j and should be the means of imearthing some remarkable instruments. Section ~, vocal music solos, with or without piano accompaniment ; duets and quartets without accompaniment. This is equally popular amcag all classes, and tho items should be keenly, contested. Section 3 : Keciting own selection, not to exceed seven minutes in delivery in classes A and B, and ten minutes in classes C and D. i^locu- i tion. though perhaps not so popular as the former sections, is undoubtedly an accomplishment of a very high order, and is singularly fascinating to those who engage in its study. It is the hall-mark of perfection in public speaking, and all young aspirants for a public career would do well to giveit a cloce application. Tho lists for this section should bo well filled. Section 4 : Heading own selection ; length as in. section 3. In these days of free education there should be no dearth of competitors for this section. Section 5 : Model Band of Hope oi"al addresses. Here is a splendid opportunity for young and old orators to distingfuash themselves, for this section is open to all. Last year tho age was limited. The alteration has been made in the hope of making this section ( more popular. Section G : Impromptu essay, to be written on the promises ; subject to be announced by the chairman ; fifteen minutes allowed ; paper will be supplied. The various sections havo been arranged into classes and entrance fees are within easy reach of all. They aio as follows : — Class A, under i> years, entrance fee 3d ; Class B, under 12, entrance fee (3d ; Class C, under 1(5, entrance fee Ud ; Class 1), under 16, entrance fee Is. On the whole the promoters are to be congratulated on inaugurating a movement which was badly wanted, and which must have a ■distinct beneficial effect upon all those taking an activo part, and we cordially wish themi every success in their .November competitions, which are annoumced in outadvertising columns. All applications for entries should bo made to the secretary, Mr J. Christopher, LVmont Boot Co., who will supply all necessary information.