The overture to •" The Messiah" was first played ; but with what effect we do not profess to know, because there was a mingled confusion of persons, getting to their seats, and of much chattering by many who were seated. About a dozen gentlemen had given their services as choristers ; and the four, members of the company sang with them. The chorus "The glory .of-the Lord," was-not, however, effectively.sung ; mainly, as it seemed, be cause there had not been sufficient rehearsal. Miss Fanny Carandini was deservedly much applauded for. her singing of the air, "He was despised ;": for. she sang it with deep feeling, and her voice, told well in it. Mr Sherwin wanted fervor in "If with all your hearts.". Miss. Rosina Carandini's solo Was the recitative, "And God said," and the air, ?' With verdure clad." The air was beautifully sung, despite the damping effect of the harmonium .accompaniment, which proved to be altogether a mistake. The harmonium will not accommodate itself to music of so florid a character,.-and the par ticular instrument used seemed not to emit One note that would accdrd.with the brilliant voice of the singer. The unaccompanied trio, " Lift thine eyes," was nicely sung by the three ladies; and so was " Oh, rest in the Lord," by Miss Fanny Carandini. The quartette, "Come, every one that thirsteth," Which, is a most beautiful composition, was most satisfactorily sung, the Misses Caran (jirii and Mr Sherwin being assisted by an amateur -who. has a powerful and good bass, voice. Madame .Carandini's solo was, 1' A-ngels, ever bright and fair;" and the, first part of the concert was ; brought to a close with "The Halle lujah Chorus." Of course, power was wanted, for .the proper effect of this chorus; other wise it was creditably sung. But why did the great majority of the audience remain seated during this sublime piece of music ? Surely, it cannot be necessary to say that custom has crea,ted a rule by which an Eng lish audience invariably rises, and remains standing during this chorus. At least, the writer never saw, heard* or read of an audience hj. England remaining seated while this most grand composition was being performed..; It would be.: useless to inquire j particularly-why such a custom has grown \ to be recognised as a rule. 