GERALDINE BAND.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXIII, Issue 17693, 6 July 1927, Page 5

GERALDINE BAND.

To the Editor of the “Tiraaru Herald.” Sir, —Kindly allow me space to answer a few of “Reform’s” rash statements re the Geraldine hand. “Reform” in one statement remarks “What is wrong with the Band helping themselves?” Now, since “Reform” seems to know so much of the Band’s business, lie should know that about eighteen months ago the Geraldine District Band was the promoters of a successful Queen Carnival which benefited the town. From its share of the proceeds the Band was able to secure the finest set of instruments that has ever landed in New Zealand; and since, through hard plodding and sticking together, the' band folk have been able to reduce their debt on the instruments to a small amount. “Reform,” instead of slapping the face of the Band, should give it a pat on the back, and show appreciation of the way the bandsmen are turning upi to practise these nights —sitting two hours, twice a week, in a cold bandroom, trying to help themselves to become more proficient in

music—while, perhaps, “Reform” is sitting in warmth and comfort at home. “Reform” admits that the public of Temuka are doing the right thing by giving financial support to their Band, and in the same breath “Reform” condemns the right of his own town Band to be supported. Why, surely “Reform” cannot be one of those who, when the Band’s collection box is passed around, donate a button or a washer. As for leading the public of Geraldine astray, “Reform” would do both the public and myself a kindness if bo would, state what three paid engagements the Band bad last year. If, in doing so, “Reform” gets aj little* bit mixed in his idea of a paid engagement

and a donation, I trust that the public of Geraldine will find an excuse for his many cramped ideas. If “Reform.” who seems to know so much of how a Band should be run, would come forward and place a few of his suggestions before the Band, instead of being so much the “dog in the manger,” the Band would appreciate liis kindness. “Reform” suggests that the Band, to obtain support, must look for a better man to stand in the ring and throw hi? arms around. - Perhaps “Reform” is after the position himself: or perhaps he has had a try at it, and found himself a failure, owing to the lmsition

calling for brains. Can “Reform” mention the Geraldine Band .ever having a belter man than the Band’s present conducin'' a - — '"it pn?ho'is “Reform's” musical ability is like his mind, narrow, and lie cannot answer this question. Like other people I have met, he may have a better enP for pick--niff up gossip than niusic. Trusting Ihe.t if “Reform” lias anything' further to snv, he will first learn th" real meaning of reform, and by doing so On n"->v bp able to do iusticc both to himself, and his own town band. —I 1 am, etc., ALLEGRO.