Markdale Band Concert.

We were in doubt as to the success of our Amateur Dramatic Club, from the fact that the club comprised nearly all the members of the Brass Band. However, we were very agreeably disappointed last Monday evening, not only at the excellence of the music, but the delineation of Nature, and Nature's Laws, as described by the various actors in the various scenes which has crowned the native talent of Markdale with an undying success. There were not less than 800 persons present, being the /elite/ of our town; and the programme, which was almost exhaustive, was carried out successfully. John Lyons, Esq., was called to the chair, and gave a lucid description of the enobling influence of music upon human character; its patriotic development upon national sentiment, and the social elevation of its influence. _Band.--Oratorio._ Recitation by Miss McDuff, descriptive of an amusing family scene, wherein Irish wit, humour, and the usual burlesque, were introduced in the scene of Mrs. Rabby was rendered, as was evidenced by the enthusiastic applause of the audience. Violin Solo by Mr. Currie, accompanied on the organ by Mr. Jones, and was well appreciated. Duett, by Mrs. R. D. Irvine and Mr. J. Cæsar, in the play of "Mr. & Mrs. Wright," was a rendition of too many matrimonial infelicities from extravagance; and its excellent manner of description "brought down the house." Reading, by Miss M. Dundas, was highly appreciated. Song, by Miss F. Ford, with piano accompaniment, possessed a thrilling tenderness that enchanted the audience. Musical Duett, by Messrs. Jones and Mason, was rendered in a manner which elicited the applause of all lovers of correct instrumental music. Song (in character), "The Dandy Young Dude," by Mr. W. J. Benson. This was the "take down" of the first part of the rpogramme, and so "took" the audience that encore came from all parts of the assemblage, to which Mr. B. responded by singing a rare comic, which even brought down higher applause than its predecessor. After a short interlude, the Band opened the second part of the proceedings with an excellent march tune and executed it with admirable precision and musical ability. Musical Quartette, by Messrs. Jones, Mason, Jackman & Armstrong. As far as musical was comprised in the entertainment, these gentlemen acquitted themselves in a manner equal to the best practitioners we have heard for many a day, and gave the audience a medley, which, for sweetness of tone and soul-speaking melody, has never been equalled in Markdale. The Orchestra gave a very enlivening air on violin, organ and cornet. Recitation by Miss C. McDuff, who gave expression to some excellent hits at many of the youthful absurdities of the present day, interspersed with occasional glimpses of genuine wit and humour. Song (in character) by Mr. W. J. Benson, "Miss Fogharty's Christmas Cake." The applause of the evening was hearty throughout, but Mr. Benson evidently "brought down the audience." Recitation by Mr. R. O. Currie, on the serious aspect of a battle-field, recounting the scenes in some of the engagements in the Crimea. Mr. C., even as an amateur, possesses rare histrionic talent. But perhaps the best part of the performance was the burlesque of "Courtship in the Kitchen." Miss Johanna (Mr. A. J. Truss) acted the part of daughter, a seeking spinster. The sex was undiscernable in the anxious maiden. The coy youth was well sustained by Mr. Benson in his cool repartee to the supposed boarding school miss and shook the rafters with their applause. Our Band, and Dramatic Club deserves the commendation of our citizens. Our efforts in behalf of their organization is well worthy of the patronage bestowed. Let our youths work, and they will meet the approving "Slap on the back" of an approving public. The Band played "God Save the Queen," and with thanks to the Chairman, whose abably and well-timed remarks, added much to the enjoyment of the evening. All departed well pleased with the evening's entertainment. Proceeds $50.