THE CHORAL AND FLORAL FESTIVAL AT NAPIER.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XVI, Issue II, 11 January 1896, Page 25

THE CHORAL AND FLORAL FESTIVAL AT NAPIER.

THE group reproduced on this page is of those who took part in the recent Choral and Floral Festival in Napier, the fame whereof has gone from one end of the colony to the other. The thought which prompted the idea, the patience and perseverance which carried it through to so successful a termination, can hardly be over commended. Not only was the object served in assisting a deserving cause —a most excellent one, teaching children to think of others besides themselves—but the musical training imparted cannot fail to bear good and valuable fruit. From our amiable contemporary, the Hawke's Bay Herald, we extract the following graphic account of the performance : — * The sight when the curtain rose was striking in the extreme, for there, packed tier upon tier right up to the ceiling, sat the loveliest group of little girls which a Napier audience has ever been privileged to gaze upon. And they were seen at their best, for abetting nature’s charms were worn the most tasteful of white dresses, supplemented by the prettiest of sashes, blue on the one side, pink on the other, with both amalgamated in the centre ; and when they rose, precise as soldiers, at a signal from the baton, and voiced the opening anthem, all the care and trouble and practice and drill for weeks and weeks past were rewarded. The last note was the signal for public testimony loud, prolonged, and hearty. As the programme proceeded, not a false note marred its performance, the children attacking even the most difficult passages with a confidence begotten of thorough and systematic practice; and when they added to accomplished vocalism a display of banners and flowers waved in rhythmical sympathy, the effect was indescribably happy. The assistance given by the “ advanced choir ” of adult voices, and by the soloists, Mrs J. W. Reid and Mr R. P. Mackay, contributed largely to the general success. The most successful items were the anthem “ Oh Festive day so Bright ” (with

banner and floral display); the “Christmas Echo Song”; “Children's Praise" (with bass and soprano solo and humming accompaniment); “ Hail Lovely Spring,” by choristers and advanced choir ; and “ Hear the Trumpet Loudly Calling,” with banner display and cornet accompaniment. During an interval Dean Hovell, on behalf of Mr Tiffen, the president of the Children's Home, who is on the sick list, thanked all those who had contributed in any way to the undoubted success of the festival.’ Thus the local press. It is matter for regret that space prevents our giving the report in exlenso ; but one thing must certainly be done, and that is to chronicle the fact that the success achieved was to a great extent due to the energetic efforts of Mrs J. XV. Reid and Mr XX". J. Bardsley, who were untiring in their efforts in training the children. Miss Townshend and Miss Hitchings also deserve great credit. On the 25th ult. the children taking part were entertained by the Ladies* Committee at a Christmas tree, etc.