The Philharmonic concert of Monday—the fifth of the season—was by
no means judicious in selection, and contained so much inferior matter that the audience became cold to what was really good. The symphonies were, Spohr's "Historical Symphony," performed at the Philharmonic Concerts some nine years ago; and Beethoven's Seventh Symphony in A. Spohr's is a great and masterly work; but the self-imposed necessity of imitating the styles of composers of various epochs, restrained the freedom of his inven- tive genius, and this symphony is consequently among the least effective of his works. The last movement, however, in which Spoilt. was "himself again," made a great impression, and was loudly applauded. The overtures were the unrivalled Zauberflute, and Onslow's light and theatrical C4or- few. Mr. Chatterton played a harp concerto, composed by the late Parish Alvan; excellent music, well played; but the harp is among the least in- teresting of solo instruments. Herr Molique played one of his own violin concertos, with faultless execution, but without a spark of fire. Molique and Ernst form quite a contrast. The latter' despite faults of tone, into- nation, and style, often rouses and excites his hearers: the former, irre- proachable in every respect, is listened to with unqualified but cold appro- bation. The vocal music was unworthy of the slightest notice.
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