THE PURCELL CLUB.
La the course of last summer we recorded a commemoration of PIM. CELL; and it seems that out of this has grown an association intended to perpetuate the cultivation of that eminent writer's compositions, and thus preserve the evidences of his genius fresh and unfading. The Purcell Club, as we learn, consists of twenty professional and as many non-professional members. Among the former are Tease and Bisnoe—each of whom, in a different line of descent, may be regarded 85 PURCELL'S successor— HOBBS, HAWKINS, BELLAMY, GAUNTLET, E. TAYLOR—LUCAS, CLARK, FITZWILLIAM, LORD, and other of his admirers. The first meeting of the club, of which it is intended to hold two in the year, was on Thursday, at the Sussex Hotel, when nearly all the members were present. The music performed after dinner, which was exclusively the compo- sition of PCRCELL, commenced with his Canon " Laudate nomen "The memory of Henry Purcell "was introduced by some appro- priate observations from the Chairman, Mr. E. TAYLOR ; NVII0 rightly characterized the life and writings of that great master, as objects worthy the diligent study and imitation of all who desired to under- stand their art or to attain any eminence in its cultivation. It will be seen, from the following list of pieces performed, over how wide a range of musical enterprise the genius of PURCELL adventured,—with what success, those only can be aware who have given their days and nights to the study of his immortal works. Canon," Laudate Domintun."
Solo and Chorus, " May the Kin:, live." Chorus, (Mayo and Ameas) " With drooping wings." Anthem," Remember not, Lord."
Scene, (King Arthur) " thither—this way." Song, ( The Ftwl's Preferment) '4 'Ti, death alone."
Anthem, " Lord, how long."
Chorus (Bonduca)" Hear us, great Rugwonh." Song, 4, If love's a sweet passion."
Catch, "Soldier, soldier."
Duet and Chorus, ( Timon of Athens)" Come let us agree."
Song, "Arise, ye subterranean winds." Catch, " One, two, three."
Some of these compositions were new to most of the party,—espe- chilly the two first songs, which were admirably sung by Mr. Ilawsiss and Mr. Holies; and each of which is strongly characterized by that deep and tender expression which PURCELL so preeminently knew how to infuse into his compositions of this class. Mr. TCRLE'S accom- paniment on the pianoforte evinced his intimate acquaintance with the style of his great predecessor ; and his young pupils seemed to partake of the enthusiasm which the spirit of Pcaeers enkindled in all who were present.
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