BANDS PROUD RECORD

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 203, 28 August 1943, Page 4

BANDS PROUD RECORD

WANGANUI GARRISON GOLDEN JUBILEE MANY CONGRATULATIONS An indication of the high esteem in which the Wanganui Garrison Band is held in all parts of the Dominion was given at the band’s Diamond Jubilee concert in the Savage Club Hall last night, when many letters and telegrams of congratulation were read by the president, Mr. H. H. West. The hall was filled to capacity and the occupation was celebrated by a concert, in which the band took a leading part, followed by supper amd a dance. “I believe we are the first band in New Zealand to have th-e record of celebrating a golden jubilee,” said Mr. West. “I think we also hold the record for contests in New Zealand. In 1910, after scooping the pool in New Zealand, the Wanganui Garrison Band went to Australia and scooped the pool over there. This was a great achievement for any New Zealand band.” Mr. West added that it was a pleasure to see so many friends, old bandsmen and supporters present at the jubilee concert. Because of the war the band had lost 21 active members —

a large percentage for a combination of 35 players. It had been a struggle to continue with the work, but the old bandsmen had rallied together and junior members had also done splendid work. Finance played a large part and there was room on the honorary members' list lor more support*Mr. West read apologies and letters of congratulation item bandsmen and others in all parts of the Dominion. The Mayor of Lower Hutt, Mr. J. W. Andrews, who is also president of the Wellington Bands’ Association, conveyed by letter the good wishes of all members and commented that the Garrison Band’s jubilee was an historic event in the life of Wanganui. ‘■The record of achievement, to your credit is one that should fill you all with pride.” Mr. Andrews added.

The Mayor, Hon. W. J. Rogers, whe is also patron of the band, said Wan-

ganui owed a great debt to past conductors and others responsible for the band’s success. In the present “push-the-button” days and age of canned music it was a help and an inspiration to look back over the years and recall the efforts of those enthusiasts who were tho driving force of the band. The work called for much human effort, but parents whose sons . were junior members were enthusiastic and helped in every way. .These junior players devoted much time to becoming masters of their instruments and were deserving of every encouragement. Mr. Rogers also paid a warm tribute to Mr. T. Gray and other past conductors.

Old bandsmen present at the concert recalled memories of other days when Mr. Gray, who was greeted with applause, gave a historical review of the band's progress from its inception to the present day. After opening the concert with the National Anthem, the Garrison Band played the march, ‘‘Mendora,” followed by selections from “Maid. of the Mountains,” and the descriptive item, “In a Persian Market.” The cornet solo, “You Are My Heart's Delight,” with E. Buller as the soloist, was included, and the band also played the Spanish two-step “Eli Abanico.” Selections were subsequently played by Trussell's Orchestra.

Assisting artists were Mrs. O. Scoullar (songs), Mrs. Brown (elocution), Mr. H. C. Unwin (double B bass solo), 'Mr. P. Buchan (humour), and Mrs. G. Perrett (songs). The conductor was Mr. J. Bevan.