Evening public ledger. [volume] (Philadelphia [Pa.]) 1914-1942, 1917-10-09
THE COMMUNITY CHORUS

To the Editor Of the EUeHiHO Ledger:
Sir-Unless we have power, born Of the
Spirit, we cannot effectively WELD the
sword. General Bell realized this when he
gave utterance to that remarkable state
ment, Singing men are fighting men,"
and every soldier in his command will be
encouraged to learn many song to
strengthen his spirit in our fight for the
worlds democracy.
And while the great war is being waged
the nation will walt in eager expectancy for
the news of defeat or victory. We must
have a song to lit the need of every oc-
casion, and no dbubt that is the reason why
the community chorus spirit has gained
such a worldwide impetus in these last
few months, until there seems to be an
immediate prospect of chain of these
choruses established from coast to coast
to learn the great songs of the hour.
The National Community Music Associa
tion, organized for the purpose of CO.
ordinating these splendid civic forces, is
acting as a clearing house for all inquiries
pertinent to this work, with the amazing
result that we find any number of choruses
working along uniform lines on virtually
the same music, until now it seems near the
time that great annual festivals will be
planned which will be participated in by
thousands in choruses such as have never
been heard or dreamed Of except possibly
by John of old in his remarkable vision of
times yet to transpire. Thus through such
great unity of endeavor new conscious
ness already born will now develop into
| great national spirit.
Philadelphia has a community chorus
champion in Albert n. Hoxie. During the
summer he has invited the multitude to
sing. Thousands of persons have responded
to his invitation to participate in these
unique song festivals, which have been
held in Hunting Park, Mcpherson Square,
Bryn Mawr, Vernon Park and elsewhere
Mr.. Hoxie has also conducted many inspir-
at the latter place will soon come under
| the direction of the Navy Department Com
| mission on Training Camp Activities The
| inauguration OF mighty chorus of those
who have a desire to sing seems to be the
| natural outgrowth of the summers actIv.
| tiles and a great response is expected To
| the call that Mr.. Hoxie has issued TO those
who have signihed their interest to join
| this effort.
The first rehearsal of the chorus will bs
held tonight in the auditorium of the Free
Public Library, Sixth street and Lehigh
| avenue, at o'clock. Miss Anne Mo
| Donough. who has also become a national
| factor in the community chorus move
| ment, will be associated with Mr. Hoxie
Glasses will be formed for sight singinG
under her direction, which will put tbs
| work on constructive basis Miss Agnas
| Clune Quinlan, recognized as being one ~
the most able and efficient accompanists' In
| the city, will preside at the piano Ja,,as
Francis Cooke, we'll known in musical
| circles and editor OF the Etude, will cali tbs
| assembly to order and will introduce - ~
Hammer, who has the appointing power ~
the directors OF music in the arny and
navy. Mr.. Hammer will discuss The i'm
portant phases Of the community chorus
Musical experience is not wholly nscss,
| sary as a qualification for membership mr.
desire to sing Is the main consideration
though doubtless the tremendous entbn,
siasm that seems TO pervade in a choTns os
this character will draw many fine singers
VINO VIII slady blend their voices with
munlty effort 70 awake PHILADELPHIA 10 mar
great possibilities and duty IN this world
crlaia
COMMUNITY Aruslc kssocr 4 4,o,,