The Guardian

O'Banyoun's Observations

No, I will not say that the date of the Whalom Park picnic was left out, last week, for the purpose of stimulating curiosity; but I will say that more persons have inquired about the picnic than would ordinarily be expected, and that the interest in the picnic was definitely stimulated by the trick. The Go-Getters will leave at the hour scheduled, 9:00 A. M. LABOR DAY, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, and you had better not miss that bus, if you want a pleasant holiday. Genial Geanie Powell is president of this club one of whose object is donating to charity.

I hear little or none of the old home talent concert, now-a-days. As late as the turn of the century, scarcely a week passed, but some church, Sunday School, or other organization staged a musical and literary concert with home talent for the patronage and enjoyment of relatives and friends of the participants. Now, everybody who can sing "Home Sweet Home" so that is can be recognized, wants to perform in Symphony Hall. It is true that the law of evolution is immutable and that the Universe is going steadily on to perfection: but it is also true that we are not all Symphony Hall caliber, although most of us think we are. Then we have hundreds of "unappreciated" students, who are not willing to perform at all, and who are not encouraged to perform by concerts which would suit them. Broadfield, with his community sing, set me thinking about this condition, and I recommend to organizations the initiation and perpetuation of many musical and literary performances for those who will participate. We can draw a lesson from baseball; there are two big leagues and many minor leagues of different ratings. All ball players are not, and some never will become, big leaguers; but there is some mighty good baseball played in the minor leagues, and many hearts are gladdened by their games. In education there are different classes of schools. All are not Class A, by a long shot. Certificates issued by some schools are comparatively worthless beside those of other schools. It all works back to my much-expressed program of self-examination. Turn the light of criticism upon yourself, find the level where you belong and "brighten the corner where you are." We cannot all be tops. I admire the fellow who aspires high, but pity the fellow who pouts when he can't make it, and goes around with a grouch because he is "not appreciated." If you are worthy of appreciation, if you are serving where you belong, if you are operating on a program of peace, good-will and love, I believe you will make it.

Let us get some of these home talent affairs going. My choir, St. Paul, A.M.E. in Cambridge, is going to have one Sunday night, September 3, at 7:30 P.M., and this one is free to get in. Don't know how much it will cost you to get out. Let's see you there.

After ever so many years' experience in teaching voice and piano, coaching, conducting, performing and general activities, I announce proudly, the beginning of another season, immediately after Labor Day. I welcome all who seek instruction, do not pick my pupils, never shut the door of hope in the face of one who wishes to learn, and can boast that never a pupil who cooperated and obeyed but has improved under my tuition. Come in and talk it over. 776 Columbus Ave. Phone connection.

Enjoyed Broadfield's program, Tuesday night, for ever so many good reasons, among which are: Prompt beginning, exactly 8:30 as advertised; informal atmosphere, setting the audience at ease, and making them part of the program with the community singing; generally a Broadfield production, which added another scalp to his belt.