National Republican. (Washington City (D.C.)) 1872-1888, 1875-03-20
HE MUSICAL JUBILEE

There is no apparent reason now why
the centennial celebration of the nation s
independence should not be observed in
Washington by National Musical Festi,
val. The proposition, although submitted
few days ago, received a generous ap-
pToval, and as it becomes better known and
better understood, there is reason 10 believe
it will receive a more extended indorse-
mont. The Philadclphians cannot claim
that II will in any way detract from the I'M
portance of the Exposition to be held in
their city, for they must acknowledge that
the ordinary attractions TO be found at the
Capital of the nation will be sufficient to
bring hundreds and thousands Of EXPOSE
tion visitors 10 Washington, and that the
entertainment to be offered TO them, if this
project is successful, will not compete eX-
CCpt in an indirect manner with their enter
prise. Besides, the citizens of Washington
have ever been friendly to the success Of
the Philadelphia effort, both in a social and
political way, and the press Of the District
has been more effective by reason of its ready
access TO Congress than any other agency
in the country in influencing that body to
enact laws favorable to the progress of the
Exposition. A spirit of justice and fair
play will therefore suggest TO the Philadel-
phians that they shall extend a helping
hand to us. Our morning cotemporary
few days ago added the following pertinent
words TO the reasons already advanced why
the project should be taken up and made a
complete success:
at is proposed to add to the ordinary at
fractions of the Capital during the progress of
tie Centennial International Exhibition at
Philadelphia grand musical jubilee, which
will give our foreign visitors an adequate i'm
preston of the extent of musical culture among
Americans. Doubtless nearly every foreigner
of consequence will find his way to this city to
view the public buildings and visit the other
objects of interest for which it is celebrated;
but the jubilee would serve to increase the in.
centive, besides drawing many citizens Of our
country. The project is thoroughly feasible.
We have in our midst large number of tai
ented musicians who would lend their efforts
to making the affair a grand success. With
best proper management the cooperation ofthe
musicians ofthe United States could be secured,
and with such aid the Centennial Musical Fes-
tival at Washington might be made one of the
greatest features of the celebration of the ma
TONS one hundredth anniversary of independ-
ence. 1t must be borne in mind however, by
those who engage in it, that all former demon
STATIONS of this character oughtto be eclipsed.
The aim should be high. No imitation can be
tolerated. Originality must mark the affair
from beginning to end, for an attempt to copy
the Boston or any other jubilee would prove
insip'd. Success requires prompt and thor
ough organization. Genius and ability are
abundant, and will come to the surface as soon
asa demand is made for their exercise. 1t rests
with the musicians to start the ball, which,
once set moving, will be kept in motion by the
community, and by all lovers of music through