The Worcester spy. [volume] (Worcester, Mass.) 1898-1904, 1901-12-06

last festival was unusually interesting
musically and possessed many features
of special excellence. The corps of art
lists was superior, mediocrity was not
discerned anywhere, and some discoV-
cries We're made that will be available
for future occasions. The orchestra, al
ways so satisfactory was at its best
l fear some of our patrons do not fully
appreciate their privilege in being able
to hear this exceptionally accomplished
body of musicians. Substitute a lower
grade of musicians or a smaller band?
Never! And may the day be far dis
tant when Mr.. Kneisel will feel obliged
to resign the first desk. As in all late
festivals this accomplished and amiable
musician gave most efficient assistance
in many directions, contributing mate
rally 10 the artistic success of the
week
Conductor and chorus were in better
accord and results showed an advance
over previous years. Referring to
previous allusion to the subject, eX-
peTience confirms my opinion that our
conductor carries burden in these
festivals too heavy for any one man,
and that a more equal division of the
labOrs would be to the advantage Of all
concerned.
Mr.. Chadwick has accomplished more
in bringing up our chorus to artistic
standards than was expected of him,
his work has been eminently satisfac-
tory. But he is handicapped somewhat
in his efforts by lack of that material
that his talents as musician and drill
master entitle him to. If the many
singers in this community, who now
stand aloof, realized the advantage and
pleasure that would accrue to them by
attending his practices I believe they
would hasten to join our chorus. The
chorus of last year was an excellent
one; the greater number were faithful
conscientious and efficient, but these
very members would do better work if
their numbers were augmented by
those singers Of like character who for
one; the greater number were faithful,
rolled with us. Such progress has been
made by our present corps | am anX-
ious to see perfection attained if posi-
BILE. l commend this subject to the
chorus committee and the board of
government.
The programs were exceedingly inter
esting. Standing conspicuously was Mr..
Chadwick's work, which was accorded
such a reception from the laity and the
profession as to firmly establish him in
the front rank of American composers.
1t must be repeated here, and it will
undoubtedly become a drawing card"
with other able musical societies.
Knowing the difficulty such bodies have
in finding worthy works, they will be
grateful to the composer for this SUI
perior example, the first performance
of which added lustre to the reputation
of composer and society.
Now, summing up all conditions, I
feel the balance is on the right side In
the educational work in which the asso-
citation is engaged-the advancement of
the cause of music-such was the prog
ress that we may be justly proud. And
l believe our friends will assist us in
solving the financial problem. With
these thoughts in mind, 1 believe we
should be encouraged to put our Shout
ders to the wheel with such determina-
ton and confidence that the 45th fes-
tival will be a success in every par
ticular.
Respectfully submitted.
CHARLES NJ. BENT.
President.