People's Pilot, Volume 3, Number 22, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 17 November 1893 — NOW'S THE TIME. [ARTICLE]

NOW'S THE TIME.

The Band Boys Want Help and Should Have it. Rensselaer Nov., 14, ’93. To The Editor:— I noticed in your edition of the 10th inst., the following: “We learn that our brass band is rather on the decline. What’s the matter boys? There is nothing like a good band of music. Everybody enjoys it and more interest should be taken in its organization, and then w r e can have a first class band. Other townshave good bands that during the summer season, give out door concerts for the enjoyment of the public.” In answer to the above we would say, that it is not astonishing that the band is “rather on the decline.” If the proper encouragement was given us by the citizens, Rensselaer would have one of the best band organization in the state. As it is at present, we are playing under difficulties. We are badly in need of a set of new instruements. and the only manner in which these could be procured, would be by a donation from the citizens, but wuthin my personal knowledge this has been attempted several times, but no success whatever was attained, and under these circumstances we do not feel inclined to “give out door concerts for the enjoyment of the public.” Should the people assist us, we would be pleased to render what services we could in exchange for their kindness, but as it is. we do not feel under any obligation to them. The citizens of other surrounding towns have not only purchased instruements, music etc., but have presented the members with the proper regalia. Such a gift from the town would be heartly appreciated, and I can assure you it would be cheerfully repaid by what service we could render. A Member.

From past experience in such matter, we fully appreciate the remarks made above, and we believe that it is the duty of the citizen of this place to lend our band a helping hand, that they may better equipped for any and all occasions. In this day and age of the world, music is among the first things. It gives a town a reputation abroad if she a good band or orchestra. Now, what we would like to see done is, that the citizens take the matter in hand and help the boys. Donate liberally and you will be fully repaid for all that you give them. Stir them up, boys and we will help you do it. Get the right ones ahold of the matter and we believe that the proper thing will be done by the boys.