THE SIMONSENS' CONCERT.

Wellington Independent, Volume XXII, Issue 2658, 7 April 1868, Page 5

THE SIMONSENS' CONCERT.

Mabtik Simonsew, the world-ronowned violinist, and Madame Simonson, yesterday evening gavo their last concert but one in this city, prior to leaving for Europe to-morrow in the Rakaia, and, •we are sorry to say, the Odd Fellows' Hall was not crowded as it should have been. The audience proBent were appreciative and fashionable ; they rapturously applauded the fair cantatrice and her truly gifted husband upon every appearance. The programme consistad of selections from the favorite operas of Guillaumo Tell, Lucia di Lammormoor, Der Freischutz, and violin solos. The former were boautifully rendered by Madame Simonsen, whose voice was exquisite. The gem of the evening was the grand valse de concert^ II ]Bacio, with a violin obligato. This popular, though now somewhat hackneyed, song, Madame Siroonsen gang with an abandon truly taking, her rich, well-trained voice being admirably adapted to the air. Martin Simonsen's talent as a violinist is world renowned, and last night's performances brought no discredit on his well-earned fame. Variations on themes from "The Daughter of the Regiment," and a grand fantasie on English and Irish airs were exquisitely rendered, and entranced the aadience, who applauded vociferously and loudly demanded encores. The concert was brought to a conclusion with the National Anthem, ■when the following was substituted for the second verso ; — 41 God save our widow'd Queen, God bless our own lov'd Queen, Give her great joy ! On her young Alfred pour Blessings for evermore ; Preserve her, and soon restore Her noble boy ?" The whole of the audience rapturously joined in the " brave old air," and the curtain foil amidst a storm of applause. This evening the Simonsene will give their farewell concert. Their equal has never yet been found in New Zealand, and we hope the public will mark their appreciation ol the entertainment by a bumper house. Madame Simonsen will take her benefit, and that alone trill attract a large house.