Hong Kong Daily Press, 1865-04-05

The performance of Monday evening should certainly be chronicled in the annals of Hong-kong. The stage decorations were mostly improved, the orchestra was well filed with the string band of the 9th. The forces were ephemeral and absurd, short and well noted, very funny and very rattling. Simonsen's fiddling is magnificent - the applause and "bravos" several times burst out in the very middle of his pieces. He uses no music books, and has a magic hand. His wife is a great attraction. We do not know what to say about her. There has never been any one to compare with her in China. She reminds one of the Grand Opera. Her voice is a deep contralto; she has great execution, and does not shirk her work in the least every word, every note was given. We are mightily pleased with her, and so was the audience. The piano used on the occasion is a very fine instrument and Madame Delingre's performance on it was most excellent.

 We never previously spent so pleasant an evening in the Theatre. We have given above a slight and unvarnished idea of what took place. We would not have missed it for the cost of a bench full of tickets.

大公報 1939-11-03: 香港歌詠協進會 當局已批准立案 定本月五日成立

香港歌詠協進會　 當局已批准立案　 定本月五日成立 〔本報特訊〕「香港歌詠協進會」係由本港十八個歌詠團體合組而成者，兩月前著手訓練規模甚大之合唱隊，在何安東．馬國霖．伍伯就諸君之指導下，成績甚為可觀。日前向港當局立案，最近已獲批准。該會爰定本月下午二時，假九龍青年會舉行成立典禮。屆時歌協合唱隊及各單位團體之歌詠隊，亦參加唱奏，歡近各界人士參加云。（志芸）

The Hong Kong Telegraph, 1925-10-01: Advertisement of Mischa Levitski's Recital

The China Mail, 1929-11-13: ORCHESTRA AT THE QUEEN'S THEATRE

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ORCHESTRA AT THE QUEEN'S THEATRE
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(To the Editor of the "China Mail")

  Sir,－As a good deal of criticism has been levelled at the management of the Queen's Cinema in the past, and the quality of music supplied, I think it only fair to point out that a tremendous change for the better has take place within the last few months.

  The applause which followed "Poet and Peasant" a few nights ago was spontaneous and proved in no uncertain manner that Hong Kong movie fans are capable of showing real appreciation when the occasion demands.

  Mr. Bahaninikoff is to be congratulated on getting together and conducting an orchestra capable of giving us really first-class music.

Yours, etc.,       

Music Lover.

Hong Kong, Nov. 12.

The China Mail, 1925-05-30

The China Mail, 1925-05-30

UNMUSICAL HONGKONG?

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MUNICIPAL ORCHESTRA REQUIRED.

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SINGAPORE EXAMPLE

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Excellent Chance for the Colony's Amateurs.

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The setting afoot in Singapore of a municipal music scheme raises once more the question how much longer Hongkong is going to lag behind in the matter of the provision of facilities for the many who enjoy listening to good music.

A recent visitor to the Colony, a musician of no small attainments, who had been very favourably impressed with Hongkong in nearly all respects, confused to great surprise, in the course of an interview with a "China Mail" representative, that there was no municipal orchestra or band here.

In reply to his question as to whether there had been no attempt made to test the demand for the entertainment such an orchestra could give, the reporter informed him that a military band had been put at the disposal of the community for a period last summer and had attracted large numbers over at Kowloon, although it had proved a financial loss for the Kowloon Residents' Association, under whose auspices it had been conducted. The band's selections also had been much appreciated in Statue Square.

The musician, who had had some experience of municipal music at Home and had been in the Colony long enough to gauge the local temperament to a certain extent, was of the opinion that such a scheme could be tun here with little, if any, financial loss, for the reason that the band would be always open to accept engagements. More suitable for Hongkong would be a party of amateurs under a professional conductor, he thought, and in that case the expense involved would be limited practically to expenditure on instruments and salary of the conductor.

He had understood when in Singapore that the authorities were confident the scheme along those lines just started there would put but little tax on the municipal pocket. An ex-military man was to conduct and the majority of other members were recruited from the Police Force. If the talent among members of the Police Force in Hongkong was not sufficient his suggestion was that the scope should be extended to other services. If it was the expense which was keeping the Hongkong Government from setting afoot such a scheme the lead of Singapore would be a better one to follow rather than that the expense of maintaining an entirely professional band should be borne, for he understood that the municipal band at Shanghai, consisting of professionals, had involved heavy loss.

Asked if there was any criterion on which to form a more definite opinion of the music receptivity of Hongkong people, the reporter recalled the concert given by the band of the East Surrey Regiment at the City Hall on April 2 when a very large audience sat out a long programme to the end and obviously enjoyed every minute of it. The works of Beethoven, Tschaikowsky, Wagner, Becker, Ansell and Sullivan had figured in the programme that night. There would be little difficulty in obtaining the services of a very capable leader, the reporter thought, and the opinion of the musician interviewed was that if this was so there was no reason from the observations he had made why a scheme should not be put in hand and prove most successful.

Hong Kong Daily Press, 1870-07-02

Hongkong, July 2nd 1870.

The Hongkong Choral Society certainly deserve well of the community for their efforts to make periodical amateur concerts one of the institutions of the place. In distant parts of the world like this, the opportunity which the generality of people have of hearing anything like good music are necessarily of the most limited description. The love of music in Hongkong has none of the facilities which at home enable everybody who desires it to hear the best music performed by the best performers; but still there is no reason why from time to time a little good music should not be available to the public even out here, and it may be hoped the efforts which are being made by the Choral Society will end in the establishment of a Philharmonic Society, somewhat similar to what which has been formed in Shanghai. The plan which is there adopted might be well worthy of consideration here. The Society consists not only of the performers, but also of the audience - the subscription, which is low, being also the price of entrance to the concerts, of which it is understood four will be given every season, though,  as a rule, about six are given. By this means, the Society numbers some two hundred subscribers, and sufficient funds are, therefore, obtained to pay for the assistance of a talented professional gentleman, who conducts the concerts, as well as to meet the other expenses which have to be incurred. If such a plan were adopted in Hongkong, it would probably be found equally successful. If the subscription were placed at ten dollars, there would, in all likelihood, be at least a hundred or a hundred and fifty people quite willing to pay that amount in return for half a dozen concerts in the course of the season, and thus the Amateur Philharmonic Society would be placed upon something like a permanent footing. and there is no valid reason why in the course of a few years this Society should not be in a position to do greater things than the mere organisation and performance of vocal concerts. The idea of converting the concert-room in the City Hall into a miniature St. Martin's Hall, with a well arranged orchestra and chorus, surmounted b a really good organ, is not too chimerical to commend itself to an enthusiastic mind. It is very true that "you must first catch your hare," but if you picture to yourself the subsequent delight of eating it, the chase will lose none of its interest, xxxxx as there is a definite object to be attained in the catching. If, however, this object in the present case is ever to be realised, this is, if we are ever to have a genuine concert-hall with all appurtenances and means to boot, we must begin, not with the organ, but nearer the beginning. It would, of course, be necessary to introduce some more instrumental music; but if efforts were made with this object, it would probably not be found very difficult. The idea was entertained, before the last two concerts were given, that instrumental music would not be so much appreciated as vocal, but this is proved to be a mistake, ad the discovery will no doubt induce more instrumental amateurs to come forward. The concert which  is announced for Saturday next, is, we notice, to be mixed, so that it is evident attention is already being paid to this point; and it is probable that if in addition, some such plan as above suggested were put in force, an Amateur Philharmonic Society might be organised, such as would be no less creditable to the amateurs than pleasing to the general community.

循環日報 1880-12-03 名班再演

名班再演 意大利歌曲名班本月初一晚復在大會堂開演所演唱者乃情韻兼至之戲本也班中子弟有名羅都杜者風韻綽約推為巨擘唱法亦居第一其神情意態摹倣畢真去歲此班至本港時羅都杜尚未見其登場作劇是夜出演蓋其初次耳觀者欲新眼界莫負良辰宜不憚往觀也歟

The China Mail, 1895-11-25

The China Mail, 1895-11-25

The Philharmonic Society gave its first concert on Saturday night, in the City Hall Theatre, before a fairly large audience. With a good programme, and an efficient orchestra, a most enjoyable musical evening resulted. In connection with the instrumentation, a special word of praise in due to the stringed instruments. The vocal items were varied and pleasing. Mrs Hagen sang 'Love's Herald,' which was followed by Ladie's part song 'The Dawn of Day.' Miss Lammert and Dr Meadows then gave a creditable rendering of Rubinstein's duet 'The Angel - the Wanderer.' Chopin's Polonaise (in A) was brilliantly played by Miss Bitohing, whose mastery over the piano was also a material aid in the concerted pieces. Dr Meadows, to whom fell the last item of the first part, sang the solo from 'Esmeralda' (What would I do for my Queen), with his usual acknowledged taste. Miss Lammert's rendering of 'The Promises of Life' was encored; and Mr J Gilchrist, who presence a pleasing voice, sang with acceptence 'I Fear no foe.' The singing of the part songs - 'Cradle Song' and 'Good-night, thou glorious Sun' - was well balanced, and these items were well received. Dr Meadows and chorus of male voices sang with good effect the cavalier song, 'Boot, saddle, to horse' and 'Marching Along,' the tenors, we thought, showing most power. It was pleasant to find in Mr Alsberg a violin soloist of such promise. Hongkong has been particularly fortunate in this respect, and it is a good thing the succession of ??? ?? to be continued. The orchestra played three selections - 'Zampa,' Overture of 'Last Judgement,' and the Symphony from the same work. It is creditable to Mr G. P. Lammert (the conductor) and to the orchestra that those efforts weremost successful, and showed much careful practice. Messr. G. P. Lammert and George Grimble were the accompanists during the concert. We are glad to state that, although the audience was not as large as the concert deserved, the Committee have been able to pay the expenses of the entertainment out of the proceeds.

The Hong Kong Telegraph, 1896-12-18: Philharmonic Society's Concert

The Hong Kong Telegraph, 1896-12-18

PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY'S CONCERT

Lovers of music mustered in strong force at St. George's Hall last night when the Hongkong Philharmonic Society gave their first concert of the season. The hall was filled and among thse present were His Excellency the Governor and Captain Sterling, A.D.C. The overture was a tasteful arrangement from Balfe's "Bohemian GIrl," and the orchestra acquitted itself creditably in execution and time. Kücken's "Goodnight, Farewell," had a pleasing rendering by Mr. E.E. Hill, and he was warmly applauded. Mr. G.P. Lammert and chorus sang the well-known drinking song from "Cavalleria Rusticana," and the number was heartily appreciated, the solo and chorus alike being capably rendered. Miss Coxon, who is a warm favourite with Hongkong audience, sang two exquisite little French songs, (a) "Soupir," and (b) "La Charmante Marguerite." In both mumbers the fair vocalist was heard to splendid advantage and the rounds of applause and the hearty recalls she received testified to the appreciation of the audience. Miss Coxon kindly compelled with one recall and her hearers parted with her very reluctantly. A minuetto and trio and Allegro Vivace from Haydn's "Symphony in C Minor" (Octett arrangement), was given with good taste by the orchestra, Mr. A.G. Ward being a most efficient conductor. The second part opened with a "Choral Fantasia on National Melodies," arranged by G.F. Vincent. The songs introduced were: -- "Let charming beauty's health go round," "Believe me if all those endearing young chars," "It was a lover and his lass," "The banks ofAllan Water," "My love, she's but a lassie yet," "Charlie is my darling," "The girl I left behind me," "Here's to the maiden of bashful fifteen," "Come, lasses and lads," ad "Fugato, leading up to 'The Walls' " (J. Saville, 1673) This proved a very popular number and the catchy music of the old songs was most enjoyable. The vocalists acquitted themselves throughout in an entirely satisfactory manner. For her artistic rendering of the song "My Dearest Heart" (Sullivan) Mrs. Vallings won well--merited praise, and the recall she received unmistakably indicated the pleasure tho talented vocalist had afforded her audience. Mr. W.G. Bently, A.R.C.M., the popular bandmaster of the West Yorks, played a clarinet solo, "Concertino in C Minor, Op.26" (Weber), and his skill as an instrumentalist was abundantly evident. Seldom has this difficult instrument been heard to such great advantage and it is safe to say that many had no idea of his wonderful capabilities in the hands of a master like Mr. Bentley. The recall was inevitable, when another fine selection was given. The Hungarian folk song, "Roses in the Garden," and "Look in my Eye, come near" (arranged by Korbay) afforded MR. E.E. Hill further scope for the display of his talent as a vocalist and for each number he had well-earned meed of praise. The concluding number was a charming "Dance Suite" from the incidental music in "Henry VIII." and comprised theMorris Dance, The Shepherds' Dance, and the Torch Dance. The quaint and pretty music, which was much admired, had skillful interpretation by the orchestra and spoke volumes for the pains taken in rehearsing. Mr. A.G. Ward, woh acted in able manner as conductor, also shared with Mrs. C.B. Gordon the work of accompanist and both performers in this important function contributed to the success of the entertainment. A number of members of the West Yorks Band lent valuable aid in the orchestra with wind and percussion instruments and Misses Humphreys, L. Crawford, and Mest acquitted themselves very creditably as second violinists.  The Hongkong Philharmonic Society is certainly to be congratulated on the successful manner in which it has spread the season, but we prefer to await the second concert before publishing a lengthy critique.

The China Mail, 1895-11-21: THE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY CONCERT

The China Mail, 1895-11-21

THE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY CONCERT

The Hongkong Philharmonic Society, who give their first Concert on Saturday, have arranged a programme which should draw together a good audience. Besides several well-known soloists, including Dr Meadows, the orchestra, assisted by the Rifle Brigade bandsmen, will perform. Apart, however, from the excellence of the programme, there are special reason why the Society should receive the support of the public on this occasion for, after have made preparations to perform Spohr's 'Last Judgement' at the first Concert, they found themselves unable to carry our this intention on account of so many of the members being incapacitated by illness, and they have thus made a considerable outlay for nothing To enable the Society to carry on its work it is necessary that the present concert should at least pay its expenses, and all those who listened with enjoyment to The Revenge and The Hymn of Praise, which were practically undertaken by those mainly responsible for the management of the Philharmonic and who would lie to hear some more music of the same kind, should give their support on Saturday , otherwise it is likely that those who find they have given their time and labour in vain will not make any further returns.

The China Mail, 1895-11-21: "Hongkong Philharmonic Society's Concert"

The China Mail, 1895-11-21

HONGKONG PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY'S

CONCERT,

SATURDAY, 23rd November, 1895.

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PROGRAMME:

   PART I.

1. Ferdinand Hérold: Overture to "Zampa"

2. Riccardo C. Gallico: Song - "Love's Herald" (Mrs. Bagen)

3. Anton Rubinstein: Duet - "The Angel" (Miss Lammert and Dr. Meadows)

4. Anton Rubinstein: Duet - "The Wanderer" (Miss Lammert and Dr. Meadows)

5. Frédéric Chopin: Polonaise (Miss Hitoning)

6. Goring Thomas: Recit. and Air from "Esmeralds" (Dr. Meadows)

7. Louis Spohr: Overture to "Last Judgement"

   PART II.

1. Louis Spohr: Symphony from "Last Judgement"

2. Frederic Cowen: Song - "The Promise of Life" (Miss Lammert)

3. Moorat: Quartet - "Ave Maria"

4. Part Song - "Cradle Song"

5. Felix Mendelssohn: Andante from Violin Concerto (Mr. M. Alsberg)

6. Charles Villiers Stanford: Cavalier Songs - "Boot, Saddle, to Horse", "Marching Along" (Dr. Meadows and Chorus)

7. Part Song - "Good night, Thou glorious Sun"

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SEATS can be secured at the Booking Office, City Hall.

Hongkonng, November 20, 1895 

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