The Jubilee Singers among the Maoris.

Wairarapa Standard, Volume XX, Issue 2033, 21 February 1887, Page 2

The Jubilee Singers among the Maoris.

.'.irnviih: -muling till xluiL the Jubilee kin ;vr.i luii os vju during years of travel, i„ was i\,s,mved for thu Maoris of Grey, town to show them something now and give them something to remember. On Saturday afternoon the Singers went to the Papawai pah by invitation of the natives and were received with a feeling akin to joy. It wac evident that a strong sympathetic feeling exists between these people of color. The welcome was such a glad one that the Singers soon felt av ease and scattered among thu native women and children, chatting in a most friendly way. After inspecting _ some carved slabs, which are to be used in the erection of a meeting house, the Singers were entertained at dinner iu the large building close by. In the evening about twenty Maoris dressed in striking cost unics and gave a dance of welcome; this was followed by other dances of varied significance, and concluded with a soug of farewell aud dance combined. The Jubilee Singers had never seen anything of the kind before, and they were much interested iu watching the grotesque attitudes and listening to the peculiar shouts of the dancers. A presentation of a mat to each of the Singers concluded the exercises. The Singers expressed their warm thanks to the natives and Mr 0. Jury, in return, thanked the Singers for their kindly visit. Then the Singers gathered in a group and sang “ Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” the rich harmony telling upon natives and Europeans with good effect. Again they sang and then concluded with a beautiful parting soug addressed more particularly to the Maoris. The Singers returned to Greytown well pleased with the events of the day.