An Irish Concert

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XLIX, Issue 21, 1 June 1922, Page 13

An Irish Concert

The Cumann na n-Gaedeal, Wellington, held its first national concert on the night of the 15th ult. (writes a correspondent). It was an unqualified success from tho point of view of finance and of art. The programme opened with a selection of haunting airs by Mr. W. McLaughlin's orchestra. Master " Maunder followed, his bird-like notes delighting the audience. For his ' second number he gave "The Dear Little Shamrock." Mrs. Crawford sang with pleasing effect "The Hills of Donegal" and "Asthoreen!" Misses Griffin and O'Connor, and Master Eustace danced the Three-hand Reel, the delicacy and verve of their movements being a revelation and reflected great credit upon Miss Eustace and Mr. O'Tuathail. Miss Eustace herself combined grace with spirit in her Irish hornpipe, and her brother was enthusiastically encored for his Irish jig. Miss A. Sullivan gave a sympathetic and spirited rendering of "For the Green," and had to respond to a recall. Mr. Fogarty, in response to an encore for "Molly sang an entirely new song, "The Green, White, and Gold," t that brought forth a storm of applause. Wellington can be proud of Mr. Hickmott. He has a fine vojftfTand a fine repertoire. "The Comemara Boat Song" had an arresting lilt to it; and his encore brought smiles, "The Battle Hymn," Ireland's poem of sorrow and triumph, was rendered with force and stateliness. Miss McEnroe, the queen of Irish ballad, made "The Island Spinning Song," and "I Know Where I'm Going," things of sheer beauty. As a recall she gave "The Fairy Tales of Ireland"; already we long to hear her again. Mr. Tuohy, of Christchurch, sang his way into Wellington hearts at the Relief Concert and was accorded an Irish welcome. His "Flag of Freedom," and "The Soldier's Song" were sung with a spirit that will keep his memory green till he returns to us again, which we hope will be soon. Miss Connolly made a most dainty and accomplished accompanist. Too much credit cannot be given to the committee, particularly to the capable and tireless secretary (Mrs. T. J. Bourke), who, it will be remembered, was organiser of the great Relief Concert. The Cumann thanks deeply the Editor of the Tablet, whose sympathy and encouragement contributed so much to the success of its initial venture.