" TOM TOM'S " MINIMS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 7667, 28 March 1903, Page 6

" TOM TOM'S " MINIMS.

THE LATE MR JOHN" LILLY. The sudden death of the. late Mr John Lilly, on Sunday last, robs the ranks of "the old brigade" of a member whose services must be well remembered by the old generation of Canterbury bandsmen A native of Gloucestershire and an ex-English player of ability, John Lilly was a most welcome help to the old Canterbury leomanrv Cavalry Band. Canterbury people can score a clear point, for it is a fact that they had a band which used to play on •horseback. After that the old Yeomanry did meritorious work, led by the late- Ben Button, and he was, surrounded by enthusiastic players of the same- calibre as: the late Mr John Lill. Those days were prehistoric to contests. It was a periodwhen musical enthusiasm reached its dead level, and a player was assessed at his actual musical worth. Mr John Lilly always scored, and on his E-flat bass was a telling 1 , correct and willing bandsman. Years ago he retired from active service, but up to his death took an inordinate interest in local band matters, ' and his pet section, viz., the bass, was ever interesting to him. He was a congenial counsellor, and a friend and adviser to young players. 'The deceased's funeral was not attended by any particular body of bandsmen, but many old comrades attended the funeral. Mr John Lilly was a bandsman of the old order, a player for natural love and affection, and one whose local work and geniality endeared him to all who knew him. Young and old regret his death, and from Buhi- | wayo to Christchurch many an old Canter -

bury bandsmen will learn with regret that genial John Lilly has joined the band of tlio old brigade.