parties in St. Petersburg, have spoken of them in terms of high praise."

These are good tidings, inasmuch as the character of the Russian national melody is such as to present a world of fresh resources to composers worthy of the name; while Russian history and Russian legend offer inexhaustible materials to the ingenious and experienced dramatist.

The Operas.

HER MAJESTY'S THEATRE.-On Tuesday evening, the last night of the subscription, there was a performance, in length and variety recalling those memorable "fong Thursdays in which Mr. Lumley, dating from as early a period as 1844, used once a week to crowd together all his attractions, operatic and choregraphic. The entertainments began with Lucrezia Borgia-Lucrezia, Mlle. Titiens; Maffeo Orsini, Mad. Lemaire; Alphonso, Signor Gassier; and Gennaro, Signor Mongini. It was the last appearance of Signor Mongini. The professional services of this gentleman being required at Milan, he is unable to remain for the extra nights, which (in accordance with a custom perhaps "more honoured in the breach than the observance") are to follow the regular season, and to keep the house open for an indefinite period. The opera was very favourably received, and Signor Mongini who sang so admirably, especially in the death scene, as to make the necessity of finding a substitute for him in future representations of Oberon a matter of regret-was more than once recalled, with Mlle. Titiens and M. Gassier.

Between the last two acts a scene from the ballet of Orfa introduced Mile. Amalia Ferraris-who, since her last appearance at Her Majesty's Theatre, a good many years ago, when a mere beginner, has risen to the highest eminence among European dancers. This lady, now a consummate mistress of her art, combines a marked originality with all the best qualities that constitute the perfection of Terpsichorean display. At present, however, we can merely add that she achieved a success as unequivocal as it was well merited, and that she was twice summoned before the curtain at the end of her performance in an elaborate pas de deux with M. Chapuy (also a new importation). The last act of Lucrezia was succeeded by a further novelty, in the shape of Meyerbeer's celebrated "Shadow Song," given by Mad. Marie Cabel with such fluency, neatness, grace, and brilliancy of execution as to raise the enthusiasm of the house and elicit a unanimous recall, although it was nearly midnight when she made her appearance. Mad. Cabel (whom all our musical readers must remember) has apparently lost none of those attractions which made her so distinguished a favourite when "Opera Comique" reigned paramount at the St. James's Theatre; but this she will have a better opportunity of showing in the Figlia del Reggimento to-night.

"It is some years," says a contemporary, "since we have seen Mad. Marie Cabel in London, and we are glad to find that time, so far from exercising any deteriorating influence upon her, has not merely improved the quality of her voice, but has also given the final perfecting touch to the vocalisation that was already above reproach. Although Mad. Cabel did not make her appearance till considerably more than half-past eleven o'clock, and then only sang the 'Air de l'ombre,' from Le Pardon, she was enthusiastically applauded, and more than justified the choice of the not easily satisfied composer, who entrusted her with the original impersonation of the heroine of his last opera. Mad. Cabel's voice is singularly even and equal in quality throughout its entire compass; and nothing can exceed her brilliant and absolutely perfect execution of the difficult cadences in the Shadow song, nor can anything surpass in delicacy the deliciously-modulated shake with which she concludes the air."

To conclude, the entertainments of this (very) "long" Tuesday wound up with "God save the Queen," in which all the principal singers (except Mlle. Titiens) took part.

ROYAL ITALIAN OPERA.-Meyerbeer's grand opera, Le Prophète, was produced on Thursday night for the first time in the new

theatre, with a splendour and magnificence that we believe has never yet been equalled. We must, for the present, be satisfied with announcing that Signor Tamberlik made his first appearance this season in the character of Jean of Leyden, that his singing was as much distinguished as formerly for correctness, vigor, and energy, and his impersonation of the mock prophet characterised by a manliness which invested the character of the impostor-prophet throughout with wonderfully sustained interest. "Tamberlik's John of Leyden"-says the Morning Post-" is well known to our public, who have long justly regarded it as one of his very greatest efforts; and never did he play the very arduous character more finely than on the present occasion. All the great points' of the part were taken,' as formerly, with an unquestionable appreciation of their merit; and the Re del cielo,' in which the marvellous voice of Tamberlik, animated by truly heroic ecstacy, gives out those famous B and C naturals di petto, with a force which makes the vaulted roof rebound,' again created what the Italians would call a furore, quelled only by the reappearance of the singer twice before the curtain at the end of the act to which the air in question forms the finale." Mlle. Csillag gives evidence of additional powers in every part she undertakes, and her delineation of Fides will place her in a higher position than she has yet occupied. To appear in a character which some of the most consummate singers of the day have stamped with their individuality, indicates no small ambition; but Mlle. Csillag has proved herself capable of grappling with the extraordinary difficulties of a very arduous task, and of grasping the salient characteristics of the most original and masterly creation of the lyric drama. Berta was carefully performed by Mlle. Corbari. Signor Tagliafico looked as if he had stepped out of a picture by Velasquez, and sang unexceptionably the music allotted to Count Oberthal; and the three Anabaptists were admirably represented by Signors Neri-Baraldi and Polonini, and M. Zelger. The scenery, costumes, and mise-en-scène are even more splendid and complete now than when the original production of Le Prophète, eleven years ago, was the town-talk of the season. From the Cuyp-like beauty of the opening view to the massive grandeur of the cathedral interior-cleverly taken at the junction of the south transept and the choir, thus giving the effect of unlimited extent-each scene was exquisite in itself, and gained an effect by the constant changes of the crowd of auxiliaries, who always-and as if by instinct, so thoroughly were they drilled-formed into harmoniously-balanced groupings. The skating scene, of course, was the main feature of the scenic display, and the " Quadrille des Patineurs" was so exceedingly well managed that it was enthusiasti cally encored. The dancing of Mad. Zina in the pas de deux was absolute perfection. We have no doubt that, placed on the stage with such profuse magnificence, Le Prophète will now, after its five years' banishment, be a great and continued success.

THE BRASS BANDS AT THE CRYSTAL

PALACE.

"THE Great Brass Band Contest," "The Great National Contest," "The Sydenham Contest," and "The People's National Festival," as it has been indifferently called, came off on Tuesday and Wednesday, and was a decided success. On the first day, when half-a-crown was the charge for admission, nearly 7000 persons assembled; and on the second, a shilling day, over 22,000. The preliminary contest on each day commenced in the grounds, from ten until half-past two, when the whole of the competing force congregated in the Great Handel Orchestra, and played the following selection, under the direction of Mr. Enderby Jackson :-" Rule Britannia;" "Hallelujah" (Handel); "Wedding March" (Mendelssohn); "The heavens are telling' (Haydn); "God save the Queen." The forty-four bands included about 1200 players, and the effect of their united powers was literally deafening. The precision and correctness of the immense body of instrumentalists was remarkable, considering how few opportunities they could have had of rehearsing together. Mr. Enderby Jackson directed, and proved a most admirable and energetic general. The new monster-gong-drum, seventeen feet in diameter, manufactured expressly for the Bands Festival, and played in furious reverberations by Messrs. Charles Thomson, of

the Crystal Palace Band, and Middleditch, of the London Rifle Brigade, constituted a most worthy accompaniment to the brass thunders. On the Tuesday, the " Wedding March" from A Midsummer Night's Dream, and the National Anthem, were encored; and on the Wednesday both these pieces, with "Rule Britannia." After this grand ensemble, the twelve best bands selected from those who had exhibited in the grounds had to contend for the prizes in rotation in the Great Orchestra, before the judges, who pronounced their decision accordingly. On the first day forty-four bands appeared on the platforms, terraces, and various parts of the grounds. They were divided into sections of seven or eight bands, each section having three qualified judges to decide as to their fitness to compete for the prizes. The twelve candidates on the first day were "The Saltaire" band (maintained by Mr. Titus Salt, of Bradford), who played a selection from Lucrezia Borgia; "The Cyfarthfa" band (from Messrs. Crawshay's Ironworks, South Wales, and from the ranks of which came the celebrated ophicleide player, Mr. Hughes, introduced to the public by the late M. Jullien, and other good performers), who executed a selection from Mr. Balfe's Bondman; "The Deighton Mills" band, who gave a selection from Ernani; "The Witney" band, who essayed their powers in a selection from Trovatore; "The Stanhope " band, a selection from Preciosa; "The Chesterfield" band (in the costume of the Chesterfield Rifles Sir Joseph Paxton's regiment), selection from the Trovatore; "The Staley-Bridge" band, the overture to Guillaume Tell; "The Dewsbury" band (the crack band of Yorkshire), selection from Preciosa; "The Blackdyke Mills" band (a subscription band, supported by the wealthy proprietor of the mills), selection from Preciosa"; "The Ackrington" band (the champion band of Lancashire, which has carried off all the county prizes), the overture to Nabucco; "The Holmfirth Temperance" band, selection from Trovatore; and "The Darlington Saxhorn" band (generally known as the Catholic Band, and which plays sacred music exclusively), the "Kyrie Eleison" and "Gloria" from Haydn's Mass, No. 2. The prizes were:- - 1st, £40, in money, together with a splendid cup for the bandmaster, also a magnificent champion contre bass in E flat, value thirty-five guineas, presented by Mr. Henry Distin, of Great Newport Street; 2nd prize-£25, in money; 3rd prize - £15; 4th prize-£10; 5th prize-£5. These were awarded to the following bands in the order in which we name them :-" The Blackdyke Mills," conductor, Mr. S. Longbottom, leader, Mr. T. Galloway. Saltaire," conductor, Mr. Richard Smith, leader, Mr. W. Turner. "The Cyfarthfa," conductor, Mr. R. Livesey. "The Darlington Saxhorn," conductor, Mr. Henry Hoggett; and "The Dewsbury," Mr. John Peel.

"The

On Wednesday seventy-two bands entered the lists, and, as on the former day, underwent a preliminary examination by the judges. The twelve bands qualified to contend for the prizes were "The Chesterfield," The Hay as follows:-"The Brighouse," wood Amateurs," "The Goldshill Sax-Horn," "The Keighley," "The Huddersfield," "The Darwen Temperance," "The Dawley Green," "The Cyfarthfa," ," "The Dewsbury," "The Mossley," and "The Meltham Mills." The prizes were:- 1st, £30, in money, together with a silver cup for bandmaster, also a complete set of "Boosey's Brass-Band Journal," sixteen volumes, bound, value twelve guineas, presented by Messrs. Boosey and Sons; 2nd, £20, in money; 3rd, £15; 4th, £10; 5th, £5. These were severally adjudged to "The Cyfarthfa" band, conductor, Mr. R. Livesey; "The Dewsbury," conductor, Mr. John Peel; "The Goldshill Sax-Horn" band, (from Mr. James Bagnall's iron-works, Staffordshire,) conductor, Mr. J. Blandford; "The Chesterfield" band, (who, in the costume of the Derbyshire Rifles, gave a selection from Lucrezia Borgia) conductor, Mr. H. Slack; and "The Meltham Mills" band (who played the "Hallelujah Chorus "), conductor, Mr. H. Hartley, leader, Mr. Cyrus Mills.

In addition, two special prizes were given: a beautiful electroplated cornet-à-pistons, by Antoine Courtois, presented by Messrs. Chappell and Hammond to the best soprano cornet player of the two days' contest; and one of Boosey's best B flat euphonions, electro-plated, presented to the best bass player of the two days' contest, by Messrs. Boosey and Sons. The judges had some difficulty in coming to a decision on these two points; and in the case of the

bass prize were compelled to have a separate contest on the platform of the great orchestra, and ultimately awarded Messrs. Boosey's splendid gift to John Walker of the "Cyfarthfa" band. The judges were unanimous in awarding the cornet-à-pistons to Mr. W. Blandford of the "Goldshill" band.

When the final award was made, Mr. Bowley, the general manager, proceeded in a few brief but appropriate words to hand the prizes to the victors, and in doing so expressed the pleasure the Directors of the Company and himself, in common with the visitors, had felt in the complete success of this novel and interesting gathering, from which he augured most satisfactory results to the progress of music among the humbler classes. He tendered the thanks of the Company to the performers generally, who, though nearly all connected with our large manufacturing establishments, had devoted so much time to the cultivation of music. Mr. Bowley further acknowledged the liberal gifts of prizes by Messrs. Chappell and Hammond, Messrs. Boosey, and Mr. Drstin, and especially commended the energy and ability with which Mr. Enderby Jackson, of Hull, had organised and conducted the undertaking. The proceedings, which were of a most animated character, did not terminate till half-past eight o'clock.

DR. MARK'S COLLEGE OF MUSIC. THE annual examination of the pupils resident within, and attending at, the Royal College of Music, took place on the 28th of June in the large Lecture Hall of the College. As a more certain test of their abilities, it was considered desirable to have a written paper instead of a vivâ voce examination as formerly. The Rev. J. S. Sidebotham, M.A. chaplain of New College, and city lecturer at St. Martin's, Carfax, Oxford, and the Rev. J. B. Wilkinson, M.A., curate of St. John's, Manchester, very kindly undertook the preparation of questions and inspection of papers. The result was made known on Thursday at the institution.

The Rev. J. B. Wilkinson, addressing the boys, said, that although the first time they had been put to so severe a test as a written examination, he had much pleasure in the perusal of their papers; many showed very considerable intelligence; all were highly satisfactory, while some (which he should preserve), were drawn up with such care,

and showed such good sense, that he was quite surprised and delighted. The rev. gentleman in the kindest manner pointed out any faults he had discovered, in order that the boys might avoid them in future; and concluded by bearing testimony to their uniformly good conduct, and to the marked attention they paid to the religious instruction he had given them on his weekly visits to the institution.

answers.

The Rev. J. S. Sidebotham said it gave him very great pleasure on the invitation of Dr. Mark to examine the school, and he was happy to say that the inspection of the papers, although numerous and necessarily involving considerable trouble, had afforded him much satisfaction. It was to be expected that among the papers of boys so very young (the average age being ten years) would be found many erroneous A few, however, were very amusing; and on the whole they sound instruction they had received. were very sensible, and indicated that the boys had profited by the As thus early evincing such intelligence, he felt a deep interest in them, and would be delighted, with Dr. Mark's permission, to have an opportunity at the next examin ation of witnessing their further progress. The rev. gentleman then read over the names of the boys who had distinguished themselves in the examination, and stated the number of marks each had obtained.

The Rev. W. Huntington said it always afforded him great pleasure to come among them, and he was delighted to hear from the rev. gentleman who had examined the papers that they had so well acquitted themselves. Of their manners in general he could not speak too highly, especially of their conduct at church, which was always most exemplary. He assured Dr. Mark that he took such interest in the institution that he hoped to visit it even more frequently than hitherto.

Dr. Mark desired to express his best thanks to the reverend gentlemen for the great patience they had exercised in the examination, which had afforded him the highest satisfaction to learn that his "Little Men" for many days had occupied their valuable time. He assured them it had paid so much attention to their religious training, convinced that no education could be complete or effectual unless accompanied by tutoring the heart in the moral and religious duties of life. Dr. Mark then proposed three hearty cheers for the examiners, which was warmly responded to by his "Little Men."

At the close of the examination the masters and pupils presented to Dr. Mark a silver cup, bearing the following inscription :-" Presented to Dr. Mark, by the masters and pupils of the Royal College of Music, as

an affectionate token of regard. June 18, 1860." Also the following address:-"Dear Sir,-Will you kindly accept this present from the masters and pupils of the Royal College of Music, in testimony of their affectionate regard and esteem, and on this, the anniversary of your birthday, permit us to express our wishes for your future happiness, and for the prosperity of your great National Institution, in which we have derived so much benefit, both from your care and instruction, and spent so many happy days." Signed by 200 of the masters and pupils of the institution. Dr. Mark, returning thanks, said he felt very deeply this token of affection; the expression of confidence was most cheering to him. He would spare no effort to add to the comfort and happiness of his young charges, and trusted they would zealously co-operate with his endeavours to raise the institution to the highest state of efficiency.

were

The examination in the musical department was, as usual, highly successful; the ability of the "Little Men" was well sustained by the performance of a selection from Lurline, and other favourite pieces, including solos both by the least and most advanced pupils; all rendered with such precision and good effect as to call forth warm commendation. These interesting proceedings ended, the "Little Men" regaled with plum pudding, cakes, &c., in commemoration of Dr. Mark's birthday; and after terminating a happy day with games and pastimes the boys repaired to their several homes to spend the holidays. The names of the boys who distinguished themselves in the examination are T. J. Ireland, J. Jones, Colbeck, Sibbit, King, Gribbin, Marsden, Field, Hawley, Green, Taylor, Wood, Fairbrother, Higginson, Wheatley, Brunner, Guest, and Shrive. The reports of the Examiners are subjoined:-"To Dr. Mark,-I have great pleasure in forwarding my report of the examination of your Little Men.' Their information was tested in the five Books of Moses, the Gospel of St. Luke, and the Church Catechism-doctrinally and practically, and I have very great satisfaction in saying that my expectations have been exceeded by the result. The papers evince very careful teaching on the part of the master, Mr. Powell, and attention and perseverance on the part of your pupils; and from this, the first public test of their examination in general knowledge, I hopefully look forward to the next as calculated to afford you every encouragement to prosecute your great and laudable efforts for the more effectual development of the system you have at heart. I feel thankful that the community possesses an institution such as the Royal College of Music, where, to a sound education in general knowledge, and the study and practice of music, a high moral training is joined, while the social comfort and well-being of the pupils is affectionately considered. I heartily wish you success in the great and good cause, and trust your efforts may meet with the return they so fully deserve. Believe me, Dr. Mark, very faithfully yours, J. B. Wilkinson, Curate of St. John's, Manchester."

66

:

Concerts.

99

PRINCE GALITZIN'S SECOND RUSSIAN CONCERT at the St. James's Hall achieved an extraordinary success, the audience not only trebling in number that of the first, but comprising the élite of the musical connoisseurs of the metropolis, who are so rarely seen in a concert-room, except upon some very special occasion. Applause under any circumstances is gratifying, but the genuine enthusiasm with which every piece was received, emanating, as it did, from such very critical hearers, must have been in the highest degree satisfactory to the illustrious chief, whose noble bearing and classical head would at once command attention and make him “the observed of all observers." As a proof of the warm appreciation manifested, there were no less than half-a-dozen encores in a programme numbering fifteen pieces. Two choruses of Bortniansky, Te ergo; "Sanctus and an air of Glinka, sung by Mlle. Parepa; Prince Galitzin's "Pater noster" and "Kozlow" Polka, the latter a delicious musical "sell," which would have made the fortune of poor Jullien; and Glinka's "Mazurka," charmingly played by Miss Arabella Goddard (who modestly contented herself by bowing in lieu of accepting the "bis"), were the morceaux thus honoured. The least effective portions of the selection (no fault of the executants, however,) were the arrangement of Chopin's étude in F minor and "Les adieux de Schubert" (which, by the way, is not "de Schubert ") both of which fell somewhat flatly, despite the best efforts of Mad. Sainton-Dolby, Herren Ries and Pollitzen, and Mr. Patey. In addition to the pieces already named, Prince Galitzin contributed the following of his own compositions: Chorus, "Sancta Maria; " Romance for voice, Mad. Sainton-Dolby, with violoncello obbligato, Mons. René Douay; and the Herzen Valse, all of which showed that the Prince was as thoroughly at home in writing for, as he is in conducting an orchestra. Signor Mongini gave a solo of Glinka, from the Russian opera, Life of the Czar, and also joined Mlle. Parepa and Mr. Patey in a trio, from the same pen. A Polacca for orchestra and chorus (Glinka again) brought this most interesting concert to a brilliant termination, and we are glad to learn that a third concert will take place on the 27th inst.

MR. LINDSAY SLOPER'S ANNUAL MORNING Concert (June 27) took place at St. James's Hall, and was one of the most attractive of the season. With Mr. Sloper were joined, in the instrumental department, M. Sainton and M. Paque, and in the vocal, Mad. Lemmens-Sherrington, Mlle. Artôt, Mad. Sainton-Dolby, Mr. Sims Reeves, and the English Glee and Madrigal Union. Mr. Sloper played Beethoven's Twenty-four Variations in D major; with Mad. Sherrington and Mr. H. Goodban, Gounod's Serenade for voice, pianoforte, and harmonium; with M. Sainton and M. Paque, Dussek's Trio in F major, for piano, violin, and violoncello; with M. Sainton, Spohr's Rondeau Brillant, in E major, for piano and violin; three mazurkas, by Chopin; and some very original, piquant, and charming pieces of his own composition. The incomparable ease and finish of Mr. Lindsay Sloper's playing were displayed to eminent advantage in Dussek's splendid trio, which on the whole was a grand performance on the part of the three executants. The trio was rescued from almost total oblivion by Miss Arabella Goddard, who introduced it for the first time in public in this country, at her matinée in St. James's Hall (Jan. 1859), and recommended it at once and for ever to all lovers of genuine music and seekers of good music for the pianoforte. The trio excited the greatest attention, and made a real impression. A more faultless performance of Beethoven's fanciful variations we do not remember. If Mr. Sloper possesses one qualification more than another, it is that perfect fluency in which he has no superior. Moreover, his taste and refinement are remarkable, and the musical thinker invariably distinguishes his The other performance no less than the accomplished executant. morceaux played by him, besides those we have mentioned, were not less interesting. The Rondeau of Spohr, in which the playing of M. Sainton was faultless, was entitled to unreserved commendation. A solo on the violoncello, by M. Paque, made up the sum total of the instrumental selection. The vocal music presented nothing novel or particular. Every artist chose a well

known piece, as is the custom at London concerts in the " season." Mr. Sims Reeves sang Mendelssohn's "Hunter's Song;" also the new ballad "I love you," which, both through its own merits, and by virtue of the great tenor's inimitable singing, has become one of the most popular songs of the day, and on this occasion, as on every other, was tumultuously encored. Mad. Lemmens-Sherrington displayed her brilliant vocalisation in Adolphe Adam's "Ah! vous dirai-je, Maman,” and Mlle. Artôt exhibited her admirable talent in Handel's "Verdi Prati" and Rossini's "Non piu mesta." Mad. Sainton-Dolby, moreover, showed her artistic versatility in Gluck's "Che farò," and the very pretty ballad "The Skipper and his Boy." The English Glee and Madrigal Union sang Elliott's glee, “Come see what pleasure," and Mr. J. L. Hatton's four-part song, "The homeward watch." The hall was attended by an elegant and fashionable assembly. APSLEY HOUSE. The Duke of Wellington entertained at dinner on the 29th ult., officers of the "Victoria Rifles," of which volunteer regiment His Grace is Colonel. In the course of the evening a selection of vocal music was performed in the Waterloo Gallery, under the direction of Mr. Land, by the members of the London Glee and Madrigal Union, Miss J. Wells, Miss Eyles, Mr. Baxter, Mr. Cummings, Mr. Land, and Mr. Lawler.

ROYAL SURREY GARDENS.-The first of Mr. Balfe's series of three concerts attracted an audience that filled the enormous music hall of the Surrey Gardens in every part, and overflowed into the surrounding grounds. The attractions were sufficient to justify this large attendance, for the programme was, with one exception, devoted exclusively to Mr. Balfe's own music; and the vocal part was supported by Mlle. Parepa, Mad. Weiss, Mad. Laura Baxter, the Misses Brougham, Mr. Weiss, Mr. Kelly, Mr. Perren, and Mr. Sims Reeves. Mlle. Parepa, in the melodious song from Satanella, “The Power of Love," was encored, and the effect was much enhanced by her distinct articulation. The clever trio, "Vorrei parlar," from Falstaff; the laughing trio from The Rose of Castille, sung by the Misses Brougham and Mr. Perren, and encored; the ballad, "In this old chair my father sat," Maid of Honour, sung by Mr. Perren, and also encored; and the song called "The Two Locks of Hair," given by Mr. Weiss with true dramatic expression, were all more or less worthy of notice. Mr. Sims Reeves was, of course, the "lion" of the evening, and on his appearance received the lion's share of applause. He sang the new ballad "I love you" - Mr. Balfe's latest production, and which promises to be as popular as any of his former compositions with such expression that an enthusiastic encore was the result. Mr. Reeves instantly complied. His next piece, a new song, entitled "The British Volunteer," composed by Signor Alary expressly for this occasion, was also redemanded; but no sooner had Mr. Reeves commenced the song a second time than a scene took place, alike disgraceful to the audience and creditable to the vocalist. After Mr. Reeves had for some time vainly endeavoured to make himself heard, he bowed and retired. The Misses Brougham then appeared, but were also compelled to retire. The disturbance continued some minutes, when Mr. Reeves again ascended the platform, and was received with deafening applause. No sooner, however, were the first notes uttered of Signor Alary's "Volunteer" than the tumult again began, and the singer was again compelled to retreat. Mr. Balfe, after some time, succeeded in obtaining a hearing, and asked the audience what they wanted. Amid the indiscriminate shouts that followed, disjointed words were at times audible, supposed to have reference to certain songs which our great tenor has made popular, and the audience wished to hear, although they had not come to a decision as to which of them was to be sung. Mr. Balfe now said that Signor Alary, whose song they had encored, was in the hall; but all to no purpose. Mr. Reeves again appeared, and was again received enthusiastically, but had no sooner, for the third time, recited the opening lines,

"Let others long for sleek repose, I'm never happy when at rest than the disgraceful scene was resumed. To cut the Gordian knot, Mr. Balfe then announced that Mr. Sims Reeves would sing his last song, and, as if to shew his superiority to his audience, the great tenor gave "Then you'll remember me," with infinite pathos

and effect. The audience were unconscionable enough to raise another cry of "encore," and Mr. Sims Reeves, with the utmost good humour, unhesitatingly acceded to the unreasonable demand, and repeated the last verse. We cannot contrast too strongly the extreme forbearance, the imperturbable good nature, and the willingness of Mr. Sims Reeves to make any concession, short of offering an insult to a brother musician, by singing another song as an encore to his composition; in other words, the thoroughly gentlemanlike behaviour of the vocalist, and the obstinate, deliberate, selfish cruelty-the intense vulgarity, in fact that distinguishes a portion of the Surrey Gardens audience. The only reproach that could possibly be made to Mr. Reeves is that he showed almost too great solicitude to flatter the caprices of a turbulent minority. It is really time that such disturbances should cease.

It is scandalous that Mr. Sims Reeves can never

sing on the other side of the river without subjecting himself to persecution of this kind; and in the interest of art we protest against our greatest English singer injuring his voice for the mere purpose of gratifying unreasoning selfishness. We trust that for the future Mr. Reeves will not submit to such dictation, but refuse to sing more than the number of times that his name is mentioned in the programme. We feel sure that he will be supported by all well-judging persons.

SIGNOR BILLETTA'S MATINÉE took place at Campden House, Kensington, on Tuesday week. Fortunately the day was fine, and the aristocratic visitors were afforded an opportunity of varying the agremens of the concert by a promenade in the beautiful pleasure grounds. Mesds. Borghi-Mamo, Lemmens-Sherrington, Rieder, and Lemaire; M. Depret, Signors Neri-Baraldi, Solieri, Cimino, Dragone, and Mr. Patey, were the singers. The special features in the performances were a romanza by Broga, sung to perfection by Mad. Borghi-Mamo, and unanimously encored; the "Shadow song," from Dinorah, by Mad. Sherrington; and a very pleasing duet of Signor Billetta's composition, sung by the same in Algeri, by Signors Solieri and Cimino, and Mr. Patey; and lady and Signor Solieri; the "Pappataci" trio from the Italiana Signor Billetta's song, "Lettre au bon Dieu," by M. Depret.

HERR LOUIS ENGEL'S ANNUAL MATINÉE, which was given at 13 Gloucester Place, Portman Square, on the 29th ult., was a brilliant affair, highly patronised, fashionably attended, with a capital selection, performed by unexceptionable artists. Herr Engel, one of the most admirable players ever heard in this or any other country on the harmonium, an instrument fast rising into fashion and repute, chose for his solos a fantasia on Don Pasquale, a fantasia on Irish and Scotch airs, and Garibaldi's March, all his own composition, the last a "palpable hit." The ease and finish of his playing on an instrument almost as refractory as an organ are indeed remarkable, and none but a performer on the harmonium can estimate such talent at its true value. Herr Becker on the violin, and Messrs. Blumenthal and Ritter on the piano, gave pieces of their own composition. A new song, "Comment est ce arrivé," written by Herr Engel, was given by that admirable artist, M. Jules Lefort, with great effect, and is likely, from the graceful character of the melody, to become very popular. Three of the choruses from the repertory of the Orphéonistes, which duced the most effect at the Crystal Palace, were performed, viz., "Les Enfants de Paris," "La Retraite," and "The Recruit." Vocal pieces were also contributed by Mad. Lemmens-Sherrington, Mile. Parepa, and Signor Solieri.

pro

MR. JOHN THOMAS'S CONCERT was given at the Hanover Square Rooms, on Monday, the 2nd inst. It opened with the "Meditation on a prelude of Sebastian Bach," by Gounod, a piece well adapted to exhibit the thorough mastery which Mr. Thomas has acquired over the harp. He was ably supported by Herr Becker on the violin, and Herr Engel on the harmonium. A descriptive piece composed by himself, entitled "Winter, ending with a Hymn," is extremely ingenious, and was received with loud applause. Two pieces, the first his own composition, entitled "La Meditation," and described as a "Rapsodie," followed by Alver's "Danse des Fées," were eminently successful. His other contributions were "L'Esperance," designated as a Mazurka; a "Grand Studio," entitled" Imitazione del Mandolino "; " March of the Men of Harlech," his own composition; and Handel's

“Harmonious Blacksmith." Herr Ernst Lubeck executed two pieces of his own on the pianoforte. The singers were Mlle. Artôt, Miss Augusta Thomson, M. Depret, and M. Jules Lefort.

cation.

MLLE. FINOLI'S MATINÉE MUSICALE was given on Monday, the 2nd inst. Mesdames C. Hayes and Rieder, Signori Oliva, Fortuna, Delle Sedie, and Solieri, assisted as vocalists, and Signor Pezze and Signor Regondi as instrumentalists. Mlle. Finoli possesses great talent, which has been improved and refined by eduHer fine, real mezzo voce was heard to perfection in one of Rossini's brilliant airs. Mad. Rieder astonished all with her flute-like variations, and was encored unanimously. The matinée was held in Messrs. Collards' new rooms, and was well attended. Mlle. Finoli, who is a person of superior birth, has many friends among the upper classes of English society, and is largely patronised by amateurs and connoisseurs of rank.

MR. AND MAD. R. SIDNEY PRATTEN'S MATINÉE MUSICALE, given under the most distinguished patronage, on Thursday, June 21, at Messrs. Collards' new concert room, was a very elegant affair, and attracted a large crowd of fashionables. The vocalists were Mad. Rieder, Miss Augusta Thomson, Mad. Louisa Vinning, Miss Palmer, M. Depret, and Mr. Santley; the instrumentalists-Mr. W. G. Cusins (pianoforte), Mad. Pratten (guitar), and Messrs. Pratten and Rockstro (flutes). The concert commenced with a novelty in the shape of a quintet for flute, violin, two altos, and violoncello, by Kuhlau, which received every justice at the hands of Messrs. Pratten, Willy, Webb, Hann, and Pettit. The remaining instrumental performances consisted of solos on the flute and guitar by Mr. and Mad. Pratten, and on the pianoforte by Mr. W. G. Cusins. Mr. Pratten-one of our most eminent professors of the instrument, and, as we need scarcely inform our readers, first flute of the Royal Italian Opera band-played two fantasias of his own composition, one on Marie Stuart, the other on the Trovatore, both with the greatest success, using his New Perfected Flute with the old system of fingering. Mr. Pratten's splendid tone and brilliant execution excited universal admiration. Mad. Pratten-one of the most accomplished guitar players in the country-having sprained her left hand a few days previously, could only introduce one piece in consequence, and that with so much distress as to make it painful to look at the fair artist playing. In her performance, nevertheless, of a "serenade" and "Lord Raglan's March," both by C. J. Pratten, she exhibited those admirable qualities of execution and style which place her in the very foremost rank of legitimate guitarists. Of the vocal music the most effective performances were the grand air from the Etoile du Nord, for soprano and two flutes, sung by Mad. Rieder, with Messrs. Pratten and Rockstro as accompanists, and the trio from Spohr's Zemira ed Azor, "Senn' fugge l'ombra intorno," by Mad. Rieder, Misses Augusta Thomson and Palmer. We may mention, too, a new Italian canzone, "O tu'l più bel sospir," written by Mr. Sidney Pratten-a graceful and melodious composition-given by Miss Augusta Thomson. Mr. Santley introduced the romance from Dinorah, "O live, or let me die;" and M. Depret-who although he is not a Duprez, is, nevertheless, a good tenor-sang some couplets by Clapisson, and a romanza by Schubert; and, to conclude, Miss Palmer Mr. Hatton's song, gave The Sailor's Wife;" and Mad. Louisa Vinning sang "Vedrai carino," and the Scotch ballad, "Within a mile of Edinbro'."

THE ORPHEONISTES IN THE CATTLE MARKET.-On Thursday a Court of Common Council was held in the Guildhall, the Lord Mayor presiding. There was a large attendance of members. Mr. J. Stewart moved "that it be referred to the Markets Improvement Committee to consider whether it is expedient to return the sum of £350, which has been paid into the Chamber for the occupation, during a fortnight, of the two hotels at the Metropolitan Cattle Market by the Orphéonistes of France." He did not, he said, attach any blame to the committee in any way, as they had never treated with the Orphéonistes direct in any way; but, under all the circumstances, he thought it would be a graceful compliment to return the money. Mr. Deputy Holt seconded the motion, which gave rise to a desultory discussion, in the course of which it was explained, on the part of the committee, that they had treated the whole affair as one of speculation, between M. Delaporte and his agents, on the one hand, and

the Crystal Palace Company on the other; and it was represented that the money, even if returned, would not reach the hands of the ill-treated Orphéonistes themselves. It was also stated that in addition to the rent of £350, it had been agreed that the Orphéonistes, or their managers, should insure the hotels, and pay any taxes that might be demanded owing to their occupation, and it appeared further that the entire expense connected with that occupation exceeded £1,300, no less a sum than £500 having been paid to various army contractors for the hire of the wretched straw beds, &c., with which they lately were supplied. It was further stated that the Crystal Palace Company had guaranteed a sum of £5,000 towards the expenses incurred by the Orphéonistes, and ultimately an amendment in favour of the "previous question' was carried by a large majority. So the motion was lost.

BADEN-BADEN.-The season has been inaugurated this year by a political prelude, which, it is said, is merely the precursor of a European Concert, the programme of which was determined here. Let us hope that, in the performance, there will be no discords or unexpected modulations, and that the future which is in store for us does not resemble the "Music of the Future," but that of Palestrina, pure and serene, and, despite all its richness, never overstepping the bounds of perfect harmony. The musical season began with a concert, to be followed by a great many more, at which, as during all preceding seasons, we shall have the most celebrated artists of Paris. It is very true that the programme of a musical concert is not to be compared to the peculiar concert we mentioned above; still it is attended by difficulties of its own, which the public, and, unfortunately, even the artists themselves, do not sufficiently take into consideration. What would you say of an opera libretto, in which several airs or several duets followed each other? You would say, and very justly, that it was badly arranged; for one of the first conditions of a good book is variety. Again, the composer who should write several pieces of an opera in the same key, in the same tune, and of the same character, would run the risk of your accusing him of a want of discernment and an ignorance of effect! Well, the very same thing holds good of a programme; several slow pieces in succession; two bravura airs, one after the other, or three pieces in the same key, may render a concert monotonous, not to say an absolute bore, though all this has nothing to do with the first concert given here. A fragment of Hummel's celebrated Septet opened the proceedings, and was capitally played by MM. Alexander Billet, Rucquoy, Doerschel, Stenebrüggen, Grodvolle, Cosmann, and Hartmann. M. Cosmann gave some pieces on the violoncello; Gleichauf, a violinist of the school of Vieuxtemps, whom he resembles especially in quality of tone, played a "rêverie" and a fantasia by his master. Alexander Billet, the favourite pianist of the Nice public, besides executing with remarkable vigour and correctness his part in the septet, made quite a sensation in a brilliant and sparkling rondo of Weber. Mlle. Sanchioli introduced "Una voce and a cavatina from La Donna del Lago. This lady might be reminded, however, of the maxim of Buffon-" Style makes the man," or at least of the golden truth, that style makes the artist.

The third and fourth concerts were superb, thanks more particularly to M. Laub, the violinist, who shines especially as an interpreter of classical music, though this in no way prevents his playing with equal success such difficult pieces as Ernst's Otello, &c. Herr Laub performed, with Mlle. Caussemille and M. Cosmann, fragments from one of Beethoven's trios, for piano, violin, and violoncello, and Mlle. Caussemille the variations and finale from Beethoven's sonata dedicated to Kreutzer. Mlle. Caussemille has made great progress during the last two years; neatness, elegance, and feeling being among the valuable qualities she has attained. A violinist of the name of Didio, previously unknown to us, did not meet with a very flattering reception. His play is monotonous, and, moreover, he chose pieces ill suited to his talent. In the vocal department we have not been lucky. Up to this moment, Mlle. Litschner, who, in 1859, carried off the first prize at the the only singer worth naming has been a young Hungarian, Paris Conservatory, and sang last winter at Marseilles.

ARNHEIM.-A grand music festival is to take place at Arnheim (Holland), on the 9th, 10th, and 11th August, the more interesting from the fact of its being given by the famous society Maatscheppi, which, on such occasions (happening once every six