Correspondence.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 173, 1 December 1868, Page 3

Correspondence.

VA VOLUNTEER BAND. TO THE EDITOR OF THE STAB. /TSib, — I should hare thought the late encampmeot would bare been the means of showing our officers one thing we are sadly deficient in — music. The Cavalry had their band, the Port Artillery theirs, Rangiora and Kaiapoi (each town only having one company) sent their fifes and drums, while we in Christchurch, who style ourselves the headquarters, with a battery, three companies, and a fourth, I hope soon to see on parade, viz., the Royal Irish, are under obligation either to the St John's boys or to the Asylum drummers for a little music on the marcq) Men must hare either singing or a band while marching. Witness the going ;and coming from the camp. One does not j feel tired till the music ceases. Does it not seem strange that when the two towns before Mentioned, with only one company, can each support a fife and drum band, we are' told in Christchurch i* is too expensive ? Al few concerts a year, and a flight subscription from each man, would be sufficient to furnish enough funds for a good battalion fife and drum band. If you want men to attend drill,

make it as attractive as possible ; for the common complaint is, "I do not care to go to parade, it is such dull work." If our colonel, who does his utmost to promote volunteering, were to call a meeting of officers, and see if some icheme might be arranged to further this idea, he would merit and obtain the thanks of all, and a salute from Your obedient servant, DRUMMER.