The Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser.
Liverpool, Merseyside, England, 1835-11-27 00:00:00

Ti4l LivdlPbdi, s'ii.AkbAiib.

this time the expenses of engaging London singers were very
great; and an individual id, an, undertaking of this description
dabotirs'under many disadvasitages,.and.must be more liable to
loss than when managed by ._a committee. .It must, however,
have been a source of general
.regret to those who for many
years had subscribed to these cancers to see that excellent. room
sacrificed in the manner it was: With its downfall fell also the
Liverpool subscription concerts, dud, notwithstanding the great
increase in the population of the tone. and niburbs, the many
families of respectability and wealth, and foreigners continually
settling here; the increased attention paid to, the cnitivation of
music, not only in the families of the higher; but also of the
middling classes; the increase of public spirit in forwarding
other institutions; although we see large suns raised for me-
chanical, commercial, literary, medical, and other scientific
institutions ; additional encouragement given to painters, sculp-
tors, and artists; •to the surprise not only of our townsmen, but
more particularly of strangers, Liverpool is still without
• ONE -PUBLIC MUSICAL INSTITL,TION
It is true many attempts have been made to establish such an
institution, but they have all hitherto failed. And although I
may be accused of presumption in again bringing the subject
forward, yet I point to other important works which have been
at times opposed by great majorities, and afterwards carried by
majorities as overwhelming, and, when completed, the wonder
has been that they were opposed at all. In this case we are
differently situated, every one approves of the principles yet aso
one hitherto has been able to carry it into effect.
It is true we have had concerts occasionally in the Amphi-
theatre and the upper part of the old concert room, (buildings
totally unfit for such a purpose;) sometimes of a minor scale at
this room and the Adelphi•
The only plan at all approaching to that which in my opinion
should form a basis for subscription concerts was brought for-
ward in a very praiseworthy manner by Mr. Holden last winter;
and, notwithstanding the encouragement he received from the
Wellington Committee, who liberally granted him the use of
those excellent rooms—the efficient support given him by our
present excellent chief magistrate, who has at all times evinced
a warm anxiety in promoting musical science—he (Mr. H.Y did
not consider himself justified iti proceeding with the andertak-
lug. It was much to be regretted by several who wished to be-
come subscribers, and more so as Mr. Holden was at con-
siderable expense in making those preparations, and form-
ing preliminary arrangements with Mr. Philips, Clara No-
velle, and a regular succession of London stars ; to fact, Mr.
Holden's well-known ability as a. conductor was a sufficient
guarantee for the good management of such an undertaking ;
and I consider the inhabitants of the town much indebted to him
for the very liberal manner in which he has come forward on
many occasions, and those only who have been placed in similar
situations can at all be aware of the difficulties and disappoint-
ments which a musical conductor has to undergo. I ant not
onie.who would make fulsome aud undeserved compliments, hut
I consider that in what I have stated I have only paid a just
tribute to the merits of one of the most talented musical pro-
fessors in this part of the country.
If it be your wish that these concerts should be carried into
effect this winter, Mr. Holden is ready to proceed as soon as he
lets a sufficient number of subscribers. to guarantee him from
oss, (he does not seek individual profit;) and as the scheme
which I shall shortly develope cannot be completed before the
ensuing winter, I recommend that the committee, which I hope
to see appointed to carry this into effect, will, for the present,
take the superintendence of these concerts.
The repeated failure of several musical schemes may be urged'
as an argument in opposition to mine; but I deuy that there is a
want of public spirit in the encouragement of good music, and
will point out as instances the fashionable attendance at the
Italian operas and the great support which is giveu by the town
and neighbourhood to the festiVals. The Other day Grisi and
Lablache- were delighted with the patronage they received. I,
therefore, maintain that the taste for music in this town has con-
siderably advanced,.and is still upon the increase; but it is un-
necessary here to adduce further arguments to maintain this
position. The lateness of the dinner hour and the numerous
private engagements which are made in fashionable societies
have been brought forward as powerful arguments against con-
certs. In answer to the first objection, I would say, that it does
not prevent a very numerous attendance at the theatre when
any thing attractive takes place, although an hour earlier than
concert hours; and to the latter, that an arrangement might
be made with the Manchester committee to give our concerts
the same week as theirs, which would be productive of a two-
fold advantage, viz., first, a very considerable saving in the
expense, and, secon, by fixing stated days, and informing the
subscribers by timely notice, so as to prevent their making any
other engagement for such nights.
Another argument which has been adduced against this esta-
blishment is the want of an efficient professional and amateur
orchestra compared with Manchester. This position, too, lam
enabled to refute, and do it upon the authority of a professional
gentleman who occupies a distinguished station in the musical
world. Through his kindness I have been furnished with a list
of the professional performers in this town. •In this list I find
the following number of instrumental performers, which may be
classed thus :-9 violins, 3 tenors, 3 violoncellos, 2 double bass-
es, '2 flutes, 1 oboe, 4 clarionets, 4 worms, 3 trumpets, 2 bassoons,
3 trombones, -- drums. In addition to these, there are many
amateurs on various instruments, who would gbidly come for-
ward whenever a favourable opportunity was offered them. For
wind instruments, I am informed, a e are superior to Manches-
ter. I had the pleasure to hear a short time ago two favourite
glees on six trombones with beautiful effect by Liverpool ama-
teurs and professional performers; and, from the facilities now
afforded by railroad 'travelling with several of the principal
towns in this county, I am convinced that at a few hours' no-
tice an orchestra might be collected inferior to: none its the
united kindgdom.
Having new brought forward many (I hope conclusive) ar-
guments in favour of the adoption of this principle, and having
also endeavoured to grapple with most, of the leading objections
which have been made in opposition to it, I shall proceed to
develope the nature of my scheme, and at the seine tell you
that, although you may sanction the principle as stated in what
I shall term the preamble, viz., "to erect a musical institution
for the permanent establishment of subscription concerts," &sc.,
you are by no means called upon to approve oft in detail. I
have merely drawn out the sketch of a plan to submit to a com-
mittee Schen appointed, which might form a ground work for
them to act upon ; and, although drawn up on an extensive
scale, I submit it to you in its present shape. It has been ap-
proved of by several, and I trust a cointnittee-witttakt the awe
of the town upon the subject, and be guided entirely by general
opinion and public support to what extent to carry it. So long
as the principle is preserved, the detail is a matter of secondary
consideration. I must at the same time caution you against
adopting it on too limited a scale, and point out the error that
the Manchester committee have made in having their room too
small to admit as many as wish to be'corhe subscribers, although
it has been enlarged at different times at very considerable
expense.
Taking into consideration the great increase in the popula-
tion and commercial prosperity of this important county, the
advantages which have already arisen, amid will continue to
arise, from railroad travelling bringing within a few hours' ride
the extreme points of the kingdom, the importance and advan-
tages to our charitable and other institutions of a room suitable
for orations as well as concerts is obvious, there being no build-
ing in town suitable for either. The Festival Committee would
I am convinced be fully compensated, by laying out a sum of
money for this purpose, by the increased attendance and en-
hanced profits that would arise from a festival taking place un-
der such favourable auspices. The York committee a few years
ago expended about £15,000 out of their funds in building con-
cert and assembly rooms, and this year have given halt' their
profits towards the restoration of the Minster. It is not too late
to apply to the present Corporation for support, and I feel con-
vinced any grant from them would be ratified by the new town
council, as, from the great efforts now snaking to form it upon
a liberal basis, I have no doubt it will be sufficiently liberal to
give very encouragement to an institution so desirable as that
which I now advocate.
Mr, H. W. B. then read the prospectus, and referred to seve-
ral
.drawings and designs he had been favoured with, one of
which was from a design of his own of two rooms, a large ora-
torio-room Capable of holding 4,000 persons to lead through
folding-doors into a concert-room to' accommodate about I,BaJ
persons. This idea was taken from the assembly and concert
room at York, which, when necessary, is thrown open, and
forms a fine suite, There would be separate entrances to each,
and the oratorio-room would form an excellent hall formally pub-
lic purposes. To carry such a design into effect a sum of not less
than £20,000 would be required. To raise this sum it is proposed
(after ascertaining the support that such an institution is likely
to receive from the town council, festival committee, and other
public bodies, and the donations of private individuals) that the
balance be raised in shares of £lOO each, granting to the °rig!.
nal shareholders a free admission to all concerts excepting at
festivals, and dividing annually a small per ventage out of the
funds, at the discretion of the committee, that upon the sale or
transfer of shares the free admission ticket should cease, but
interest continue to be paid; the committee, however, having
the option of purchasing the share at a valuation.
That• the numbersif subscribers to the concerts be limited to
eight hundred, with two tickets to each, making with the share-
holders about one thousand eight hundred in all, the tickets
transferable to ladies and strangers, but not to gentlemen resi-
dent in or within seven miles of the town.
That the subscription be five guineas per annum, and that
after a certain number of subscribers are admitted an entrance
fee be demanded for the purchase of music and the other ex-
penses incidental to a nest establishment.
That there be private or undress concerts every fortnight as
rehearsals, and as many public or dress concerts as the funds
may admit of, and the committee appoint. ,That the affairs of
the society be managed by a toniunittee to be chosen by the sub-
scribers from the shareholders and themselves, a certain num-
ber retiring in rotation annually ; two or three members of
which shall be chosen by the committee as directors of the busiz
ness of the orchestra, with full power to engage the performers,
&e. &t.

There may be some difference of opinion as to the best mode
Of raising money for the building, but my own idea is a simple
one, and only a small amount of interest would be required to
be paid and no doubt it would be considered by many a safe and
eligible investment, and although the shareholders might pos-
sess a free admission, many of them would become subscribers
for the advantage of their Families and friends. The next doubt
is as to the subscription list being filled up, I feel convinced in
any own mind, and I am supported in this opinion by many
more experienced judges, that if the scheme is once embraced
and supported by the leading fashionable societies, then there
is not the smallest doubt of its success; let it once be established
as a fashion, and there will be the same desire for admission
here as in other places.
Having now laid before you the leading principles of my
plan, I shall state what further measures I intend adopting in
order to carry them into effect. I apply to none of you indi-
vidually for support, but i call emphatically upon Act, those
who feel any anxiety in the success of the undertaking to come
forward now when the public spirit is roused upon the subject,
and lend their united assistance in furthering this great objecri
The moment I see a committee formed whose names will be
a sufficient guarantee to the public for the good management of
such an institution, then shall I be convinced that my efforts
have been crowned with success.
I look at no distant day to the prospect of seeing the respect
able inhabitants of this great town, although now engaged in
political discussion, come forward and co-operate in promoting
the public welfare; and I trust they will now set an example so
praiseworthy in the support of an institution so useful as that I
have submitted to your consideration.

It may be asked why I should take so prominent a part in in-
troducing this subject, possessing no musical acquirements my-
self? My answer is, that to me, individually, it is a matter of
little importance; the study of music thoroughly is of itself the
work of a man's lifetime; other important duties debar me from
such a study, but they do not prevent my participating in these
amusements when such duties are at au end. It is true we can
seek musip and enjoy it. in our own private.societies, and, so
long as it is not encouraged here publicly, can seek it in other
toWni where it is to be had; but I have a higher object in urg-
ing this principle in the obloquy which is cast upon my native
town and the disadvantages which so large a portion as that of
my profesSional toWnsmen labour under ; so long as they are
without such an institution it is surprising► that we should find
such a phalanx of musical talent when so Itttle'publie encou-
ragement is give❑ thereto.

We have seen no want of public spirit in LiVerpoth at former
periods—no want of money for promoting public purpoSes.
We have seen .a sum four or five times greater than the amount
now required profusely. lavished in a contested election ; we
have frequently .seen in such excitements the liberality of eye
individual produce a sum sufficient fur the erection of a magni-

ficent concert-room; we see now fitrils expended half-yearly in
political
.purposes sufficient td meet the contingent expenses of
filed au institution, and surely we shall not now see it fall fur
Want of effective support.
I may be ridiculed by smile fur the prominent part I have
•
taken in introducing this subject—l may be told thvt my scheme
is visionary, ephemeral, &c.; but such terms are equally applica-
ble to these who haveapprovedof it, and tbey.tre many: however
the sole responsibility for its introduction I take upon myself,
and, had I stood alone and unsupported, i should have tonsider-
ed myself justified in the course I have taken. 1 trial y, be told
that I am urged on by interested parties, but I decMre here,
solemnly that I have no interested party to serve, no private
object to. seek, no personal ambition to gratify; yet; I have
been. told that lam ambitious. If it be ambition to pro Mote
the improvement of my own town or to advocate the claims of
any particular classes of her inhabitants; if it be anibition fo
. seek the goodwill and respect of my townsmen; or to ebtitt the
esteem and confidence of such an assemblage ifs this; then do I
accept the term and own that I ant ambitious.
It is my ambition to assist in raising an institution worthy of
the first commercial town in the universe; and though I may
tail in the attempt, I feel convinced that it will ultimately be
carried, for it is backed by that powerful support which nothing
can resist, popular opinion. It may be for a time resisted and
retarded by the inertness and jealousies of individuals; but as
to its final and triumphant success, eventually, I have not the
smallest doubt. Though I may fail, it will not have been from
a want of heartfelt exertion in the cause. I have for some
time devoted my leisure hours to its consideration. It has cost
me some trouble and labour: It has required some reflection to
collect my scattered ideasi and develope them to you in their
present form ; but if I meet with your approbation, and any
advantage result to musical science from these exertions, I am
amply rewarded. But why Should I speak despondingly of
present success from the numerous offers of support which I
nave already received from all parties, .and from the further
united . support that I shall continue to receive. So far front
despairiii.; 1 feel convinced that I shall succeed, not tempo-
rarily, but most triumphantly succeed. As it is iu the power of
au infant to urge froM a pivot a weight so overwhelming that
would require a powerl9,ooo times gloater to raise again, so
may it be in the power of an individual to set in motion that cur-
rent of public -opinion which has set in in favour of my scheme,
on which I trust I have drawn up a case sufficiently conclusive
to warrant you in giving it your individual support.
In conclusion, allow me to apologise for the length of time I
have occupied, and to express a hope that the importance of the
case has Justified me in so doing, I will detain you no longer;
but must first thank my professional and amateur friends, from
the warm and united support they have given me throughout,
they are all deserving of praise. I might make some'distinc-
tions; but I feel that they are unnecessary. Many of` you are
known, and your talents duly appreciated. Merit will work_ its
own way, and find its own reward. My thanks are also due to
the honourable body of knights templets, for the handsome
Manner in which this excellent room was.so promptly granted
me. Also to Mr. Banks for the use of this splendid instru•
ment of Zeitter's patent, au improvement snore valuable
than any that has taken place for many years past. Also
to the stewards for their exertions this night, and to my friends
for their valuable assistance and co-operation. I thank you
Mr. Mayor, and ladies and gentlemen, for your company, and
more particularly' for the kinds indulgence you have shown ;
and if we do see an institution raised, that not only we, but
Posterity be justly proud of; we may sometimes reflect upon its
origin from this entertainment. Then can I look back upon this
night es a bright spot in the hemisphere of my existence, the
recollection of which can never be effaced from a heart which
feels truly grateful for the support and encouragement you
have now manifested.

We have to observe that the foregoing speech of Mr. Bate-
son was received with the deepest attention and with frequent
marks of approbation. The allusion to the assistance which he
hoped the existing corporation would give him, with the cer-
tainty that their more liieral successors would ratify any grant
made to further this object, excited a laugh, particularly from
His Worship the Mayor and Mr. James Brancker, who chanced
to be sitting together on the same bench.
Without entering upon an examination of Mr. Bateson's
plan, and without giving any opinion as to its feasibility or
practicability, we cannot dismiss the subject without saying
that we consider the town generally under great obligations to
him for having brought the subject under discussion. Judging
from what we saw and heard on Tuesday night, we are o?opini-
on that he will meet with support from all parties; and, under
this impression we would suggest to him the propriety of losing
no time in forming a committee who would assist him in arrang-
ing the details and bringing forward his prospectus in a more
perfect shape. He has our most cordial wishes that he may
ultimately succeed; of this, indeed, we have no doubt, if Mr.
Batesou and his friends continue to work with the same zeal
with which they have commenced their operations.