PALMERSTON BAND

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 74, Issue 245, 16 October 1931, Page 6

PALMERSTON BAND

OARBISON CONDUCTOR RESIGNS

A WANGANUI NOMINEE

PALMERSTON N, Oct. 15.

Mr K. Cox, who has been conductor of the Palmerston North Garrison Band for the past two years, tendered his resignation to last night s meeting of the general committee.

Mr Cox first of ail asked for leave of absence, stating that his reason was that the band could not really afford a bandmaster. He added that he had placed the position before the band members and had suggested Air Gordon Bergersen (Wanganui) on trial. The band had endorsed the proposal. Air Cox stated that Mr Bergersen won tho championship of New Zealand the year before last. “That is the position, gentlemen,” added Air Cox. “It is rather hard.”

Air J. Dick: Are you going to come backf

Mr Cox: I am asking for leave of absence, and if in. say, six months’ time the finances are better, 1 will return.

Air Cox said he wanted to leave next Tuesday.

Mr F. J. Oakley (chairman;: Thi: is a bit of a bombshell.

Mr Cox; It will relieve the band of some responsibility. The secretary (Mr W. Newlands): Does this mean you are resigning? Air Cox; I put myself in the hands of the committee. I would be very pleased to know in three months’ time that Mr Bergersen is filling the position quite capably, but if you want me again in a reasonable time, I wi’l come back.

Mr R. Leeder said the band hau been unanimous in agreeing to give Mr Bergersen a trial. On a suggestion from the committee Mr Cox decided to hand in his resig nation so as to leave the committee with a free hand.

Members of the committee voiced appreciation of the work Mr Cox had done as conductor, and regret at his departure. Mr W. Boon: That puts an end to all talk of contest.

It was explained in reply that the band was not anxious to go to th. contest, and in any case it was doubt ful if a contest would be held thi year. Palmerston North could not afford to send its band.

Mr Cox’s resignation was accepter with regret, the chairman stating that he was leaving Palmerston North witl the best wishes of the committee. “We appreciate your work with tin band, which has improved from a musical point of view,” added th< chairman. “You have also carried oui your duties consistently and have worked harmoniously with the band and the committee. It has always bee: a pleasure to ask you to do anything and we are perfectly satisfied with th way you have carried out your duties.” A letter of appreciation is to be handed to Mr Cox.