The first concert of the Philharmonic Societn, on Monday last,
was excellent and successful ; though, as usual with these concerts, the se- lection, of music presented no novelty. The symphonies were Mendels- sohn's in C minor and Beethoven's in A. Mendelasohn's symphony was written when he was a boy of fifteen, and was performed by the Philharmonic Society a few years afterwards, when he first visited England. Though less finished than his later orchestral pieces, it is a most interesting work, strongly marked with the individuality of his genius. The novel feature of the concert was the appearance of Madame Clara Schumann ; who, though for many years one of the most re- nowned pianists in Europe, has never visited this country till now. She performed Beethoven's concerto in E flat, and an unaccompanied solo by Mendelssohn. She exceeded the highest expectations of the amateurs who eagerly listened to her, and excited the admiration and delight of the whole audience. Her playing was a combination of all the qualities of a great artist,—power, energy, grace, expression,—and, above all, that chaste simplicity, and respect for the text of a great master, which characterize the classical school of Germany. The only vocalist was Clara Novelle, a host in herself: she never sang more beautifully, and never was more warmly received. The room was crowded to the doors; the subscription this season being greater than it has been for many years. The satisfaction given by the appointment of Professor Sterndale Bennett to the post of con- ductor was strongly expressed by the warmth of his reception when he entered the orchestra, and was justified by the admirable manner in which he performed his duties.
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