GIPSY SMITH ATTENDS CHOIR REHEARSAL.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18008, 19 November 1926, Page 5

GIPSY SMITH ATTENDS CHOIR REHEARSAL.

In the presence of Mr Gipsy Smith, a special practice was held in the Durham Street Methodist Hall last evening: by the combined choir of over 300 voices, which is to lead the singing in the evangelistic campaign to commence on Sunday next in the King Edward Barracks. Mr V. C. Peters was the conductor. Mr Edwin Young, Mus. Bac., played the accompaniments. Their skilled work had a wonderful effect upon the choir.

At the close of the practice Mr Gipsy Smith said:—“From what I have heard to-night I am quite satisfied with the music you are providing for the mission in Christchurch. Mr Peters Is without doubt the best song leader we have encountered in Australia or New Zealand. The interpretation to-night has been a musical revelation to me, a spiritual revelation. A simple melody sung from the heart will lift many a weary soul. I don’t know how you feel, but this has been one of the happiest nights I have spent in New Zealand.” The remarks were warmly applauded. The Christchurch committee ha.ve arrangements well in hand for the setting out of the King Edward Barracks. A platform is being erected for the choir, and seating accommodation for some thousands is being provided. The

committee have been advised that In Dunedin there were attendances of over 4000 in the Exhibition buildings. As the location of the mission here is more central, the committee expects that there will be even larger attendances. The veteran missioner Is this week celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of the turning point in his life which caused him to become an evangelist. His friends In England are planning a jubilee celebration after his return from New Zealand. Although the missioner is supposed to be resting, he is entering heartily into various undertakings. This evening in the Trinity Congregational Church he will conduct a conference of ministers and laymen from various churches in Canterbury. A public welcome is to be given in St Paul’s Church to-morrow night. The mission will commence on Sunday afternoon, and a second united service will be held in the evening.