"In the first place," said Mr Lmvn, '' yoxi are probably aware feat I have been intimately connected for some years with the conduct of brass bands on the West Coast, and latterly in the Auckland province. Before coming to Te Aroha I never had the slightest trouble to obtain fair average musters of bandsmen on practice nights. When I first came to reside in Te Aroha. I found you. had a band which lacked one essential —a con ductor. I volunteered my services, which were accepted. I then got my brother and a friend (both, musicians) to join, and for a few sights tilings looked fairly promising. After a while, the absence of certain members became too pronounced, 'as it materially affected what is termed . the balance of the band. The band con tost then came on the tapis, and soon after the question of procuring a number of now instruments. The instruments I obtained from Auckland on my own re sponsibility, and for about three practices, following their arrival the members of the' Band took their accustomed places. Since then, however, a number of the' members have displayed a total lack of interest in the band, and have neglected the practices. Although three of us have come down from the Tui for band prac tice regularly three nights a Aveek, the local bandsmen have shown a total dis regard for any voluntary efforts put forth to further advancement. I did once hope to make a bid for one of theorizes at the forthcon.ing contest; but that has, of course, been completely knocked on the head. The non-attendance of members at the practices set down for Thursday and Saturday nights of last week, and again on the Sunday afternoon, so dis-. couraged me that I felt compelled to hand in my resignation forthwith. It is my intention, if possible, to retain the new instruments and establish a band in connection with the Tui mine.; I must tender my hearty thanks: to all those members of Te Aroha, Brass Band who stuck manfully to their posts throughout, and I also wish to thank the residents of Te Aroha who have so generously contri buted towards the funds in aid of the Band Contest." "

COLEWINSOR—COLEWINSOR EXTENDED.
