Service of Song.

Gisborne Standard and Cook County Gazette, Volume III, Issue 368, 24 October 1889, Page 2

Service of Song.

Another of those enjoyable entertainments which are given in the Wesleyan Church monthly, took place on Tuesday evening, when, in the presence of a crowded church, a Service of Song entitled “ Biddy,” was rendered by a choir of twenty voices, assisted by an efficient orchestra of string and wind instruments. The choir had evidently under, gone assiduous practice, and the whole service was gone through without a single hi’eb, the various choruses being especially appreciated for the spirit in which they were given, and the excellent time kept by the singers, Some of the soloists were a little nervous, a not uncommon thing with yonng singers, but nevertheless they acquitted themselves very creditably, and some of the numbers were sung so well that it was difficult to obey the ini unction of Bev. J. Ward (who conducted the service) that there should be no applause until the conclusion of the service. The following pieces (besi les some ten others by the whole choir) were given. Solo: ‘ Nobody ceres for me,’ Miss F Parn-H; quartette: ‘ Kind words can n -ver die,’ Misses Lowndes and Chrisp, Messrs Steele and G. Searle; nolo; ‘Hark! there comes a whispar.' Mrs Harding ; duet: ‘ Home, sweet home I ’ Misses Chrisp and F. Parnell; solo: ‘Beautiful voices.’ Mr East; quartette : • Jesus >s a'wavs near,’ Misses Voalre and Lewis, ai d Messrs C. Goldsmith and J. Searle; solo: • The Christian’s sweat song.’ Lowndes; solo : 1 Remembered,’ Mr E. S. Go dsmith. The connecting narrative was read by Miss Spence, and she deserves ‘’rest credit for the manner in wh ch she unfolded the wonderfully pathetic story of poor Biddy's life and death. Miss Spence possesses a sweet voice, which was pitched in a tone that, with her clear enunciation, prevented a single word from escaping the attentive ears of the listeners. She is also happy in having a power of selfcontrol which S'nod her in good stead as she be'rayed not the slightest sign of narv>u«. ness. She had a number of Irish and Scotch phrases to grapple with, but these seemed to give her no difficulty whatever. Shortly after half-past nine the musical part of the entertainment concluded, and coffee and cakes in great variety were parsed round among the audience. There was an abundance of good things which were pressed upon all by the young ladies with such pertinacity that it was almost impossible to dedine their good offices, even if one desired it. It was certainly not the fault of the servitors if anyone departed hungry or thirsty whan the gathering broke up at ten o’clock, er spending a very pleasant evening.