Chicago Daily Tribune Newspaper, January 24, 1875, Page 7

WHE CHICAGO DAILY TRIBUNE: SUNDAY JANUARY 24, 1875.~--SIXTEEN ‘PAGES. AMUSEMENTS. Vicker’s. Qur New York Correspondent on Thomas’ Concerts, Mr, Grover’s Intention of Intro. ducing Beer at ihe Adéiphi, John Blaisdell's Efforts to Get Aid for the Moral Drama, John McCullough’s Qualities es an Actor. qhe Theatres During the Past and Present Week. HUSIC. THE OPERA. THE FTRST WEEK OF THE OPERA SEASON jsover. Financially it has not been a success, Ofconrsé, tho hard times have had much to do withit, but we fancy Mr. Strakoach hag been try- ing an experiment which bas proved so expensive that be will abandon it another season and re- tarn to the old-fashioned ** star" syetem and big For this season he organized a troupe, the material of which, although it embraced ‘no names of ‘World-wide fame, wes remarkably strong. Tho ensemble of this troupe has hardly ever been excelled. The general performances bsve rarely been sb even. smooth, aad finished. ‘When have we had better baritonea than Taglia- pietra and Del Puente, better prima donnas than Albani and Heilbron, a better contralto than Cary, or better tevora than Carpi and Benfra- telli? The chorus is. as good7as choruses aver- age; the orchestra better than any we have ever had, except the old Anéchuetz one. The reper- toire has been x tery attractive one, aod yet what is the reault? Jnst one paying house, the “Lohéngria” night, when there were $3,400 in the house, The result shows that people want sensations; that they will have one great name, even if they have to pay more than tho one grest name is worth; that they care little Tor excellence of ensemble and conscientious performances. Mr. Strakosch has at lénst the consolation of knowing that he has satisfactorily tested the question, althongh the test bas cost him a good many thonsand dollars. Next ycar bo will undoubtedly return to the star system. ‘The people will have one part well done, the rest s0-20, and the manager will make money. The repertoire for the week has included “Traviats,” “Ltcis,” “Fanat,” “Lohengfin,” “Ernani,” “Mignon,” and “Aids,” and every one of these performances was above the aver- age of excellerice, with the possible xoeption of “Ernani,” in which the third prima donna, Maresi, appeared. “Lohengrin” was the avent of the week, and, although the thoral fostnres of it were frightfully msrred, the maguificent personstions and vocal efforts of the five principals, Albani, Cary, Carpi, Del Puente, and Hall, and the handsome work of the orchestra, were something for which to be thankfol. There has never been anything on our operatic stage tocompare with the Prayer Finale of the first act in massiveness, grandeur, sodimporing majetty of vocal effect, nothiog- which bss 60 electrified an audience, and, : this troupe done nothing else, its visit would have been a memorable one, There is one point which will be particularly consoling to the artists of tne troupe. The audiences have been composed almost exclusively of musicians and musical connoisseurs, arti it is upon these that the newcomers, Albani snd Heilbron, Carpi, Tegliapietra, and Bevfratelli, have made thor impression. The estimation of those capable of appreciating sud judging is the best aesurance artista can bave that they lave made success. ‘The repertoire for this week is eyen more at- tractive than that.of last week. It is possible that the representations may not be any better attended; but one thing is certain, there will be miny ho will regret not going when it is too late. The repertoire will be as follows: ~ ‘Benday—“ Lobengrin,” with the old cast, Tuesday—“ Nozze di Figaro.” Priday—“ Rigo'etto,” with Albani, Saturday—<aiatines) “Barber of Bevel tog) Maxchottl's new opera of “Buy Blas.” MUSIC IN NEW YORK. THOMAS CONCERTS. 7 From a Special Correspondent, Rew Your, Jan. 19, 1875.—The lovers of music in New York have had numerous opportunities ; of becoming acquainted with some of the vory greatest works by the greatest composers at the numerous concerts given by Afr. Theodore Thomas, The “Suite” in B minor, by John Bebastizn Bach, has been heard several times with constantly increasing interest. His stringed band is ao remarkable for solidity, largeness, and volume of tone, that it pleys this stately, gnified music with good effect. Hia now first- flautist also produces s full, rdund tone, and therefore succeeded well in the obligaio solo flate passages which are found in thie wonderful vork. The grave introduction, spirited fugue, slow coda; ‘the Sarabande, with its fascinating motion; the Polonaise, with its double, and dadinerie (badinage), with its bright and genial themes, were alf admired. Though 150 years old, this musio still appears young and fresh. Schumann's Symphony in B flat has also been Played more than once, and with such magnifi- eence that new boauties have been revesied. ‘The grand opening phrase for horna snd trum- Peta, which is immediately thundered forth by the whole orchesira witn stupendous emphasis &4.an anuouncement of the first importance, was delivered in the most remarkable manner. This itis! motive et an increased speed forma the principsl theme of the Al- legro.. ‘This spirited, fiery, energetic Borement, with its gorgeous ‘barmonies, bold rhythns, and startling, mtrepid modulations, Won golden opinions. The gentle and serene etts forma an agreeable contrast to the impetuosity and onward rush of the preceding hovement. The Scherzo and Allegro were also fally enjoyed. Liszt's Symphdnic Poem ‘Die ideale" gained for ite gifted composer additional Admirstion. He is here seen yoiuntarily placing himself under tne dominion of the poctic ides aa siven by Schiller in the firat sketch of his poem, And therefore has been led to vary the classic form of the symphony in all those points where strict an adherence to it would hamper and restrain him in the expression of. hia meaning. Yet respect for this fixed mold is everywhere ‘“pparent, for it is always found preserved when- Svar. suitable to the satisfactory expression of ‘be spiritual contents. In no case does he seem Arevointionist, but as a reformer in this matter form. He is neither a formalist, nor does he Teject all restraint, but merely claims the right € the creative artist to be free in the manifesta- ions of his inner impulses. The Introduction, ‘xpressive of dissatisfaction, the excited Allegro, mournfully aad and pathetic Andante mesto, the Allegretio mosso, the subject of which re- fembles to some extent that of the Allegrettc in pndeletonn ‘a B flat Symphony, and the grand es te, with ite magnificent peroration, combine to a Work of art worthy of highest praise. One Single leading motive is here seen transformed #0 Wonderfully that it 1s the leading ides of each Movement, and finally at the Apolhcose attains & flmarx displasing consummate, passion and an c Seats, eloquence. Gade’s Symphony in fimioor, which sfendelesohn loved so much thst sae to thank the Danish composer for it, been also beardhere. This vigorous, aturdy, road, noble, masculine niusic, with ita solid ra harmonies, potential rhythms, empbat- marcblike progressions, and compact strac- fual forms, is in marked contrast to that of ‘any other schools, some of which, though ‘autiful, is often effeminate and weak. It may 2G, ckprese uoheslthy meutal conditions—an Mattiabla innwing far a atatan? Inneing. am 1 | jectionable, This symphony is highly otigival, whe Italian Opera at Hes | {muebly vel written, ‘but im no case Rives evi- 1 piauiata, other morbid, sickly cravings—which, if transi- tory, aro to be tolerated, but the idulgence of them leads to an habicual frame of mind being } induced which is enervating and otherwise ob- dencs of Mendelssohn's fsacinating influence, like many of Gade's later compositions. Mr. Thotnas has also played once moro'Rsif’s favor- ite “Lenore” Symphony with such art that again new beautiea have been revealed. Many oft hearing stich ® composition for the first time are occupied chiéfly in regarding the general effect.of tho whole as s musical composition, and also with some slight reference to the char- acteristic significance ofthe music. Subsequent- ly tho detaila in a technical sense may receive attention, such as the harmonio tissue, the com- plicated web of melodies, the rhythm, the formal structure, the orchestration, etc.; then the do- tails with referenco to the general and. special intentions of the composer, and thus new beau- ties which had hitherto remained concealed are bronght under notice. Eventually they become fully conscious of considering the composition in many aspects, and, as it were, simultaneously, while listeniig to’ such éceptionally good performances, and then the underlying poetical idea appears to come forth with constantly in- creasing clearness. From tho soft, tremalous sounds of the viols and violoncello with which it begina to the fine] pianissimo chord, not » single flaw was perceived, The new symphony by the same composer, Herr Joachiin Raff (opus 189), in D minor, bas been rocently playéd in America for the first time by Mr. Theodore Thomas. It consists of feur regular movements in the classic forin, that are eatisfactory from 2 mubical potat of view, but do not appear to be altogether in keeping’ with, the motto, which is given as affording an indication of the com- poser’s menuing. The words “ Gelcbt-Gesirebt, Gelitten, Gestritteu,—Gestorben,—Umworben,” do not cripple or-contine the imagination by special and partiesiar application, it 1s true, and therefore this cannot ba regirded as “pro- gramme music”; yet the movements, especially | the second, do not appear to agree with the motto eo that the intention is rendered clear. Much remains obscare if not actually inserata- ble in this work when regarded with reference to the motto. ‘The idea of a great artist, living in advauce of his age, striving, suffering, fi:hting, and aftet desth boivg for tue first time sppre- cisted—his merits recognized, bis works eagerly sought, his name revered and his statue adorned with laurel wiéaths enwoven by lovely bands—is so familiar to the musical composer that one would expect such a them to bs productiva of great results. ‘The ‘*Cisconne” by Bach, adapted for orches- tra by Raff, aud dedicated to the New York Phil- harmonic Society, bas also been brought forward by Bir. fheodore Thomas, in common mtb Herr Brahms’ Hungarian daucee, and other works, especially the new Raff piano-forie concerto. Air. Mills nas unable from ill health to perform tte truly artistic production, and theretore the NEW YORK PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY had thé honor of giving the work a ieariog for the first me in the country. It is a noblé com- position, aud one that will becoma popular ith In each of the threo movements the | themes are develoved with great contrapuntal sil The melodies, especially those in the andante, ara exceedingly graceful, free, and ultra-modern in character; yet, al- thongh they are handied in such a scholastic style, there is nc appearance of btiff- ness or formality resulung tueretiom. In no case does it appoar ttiat they were originally de- signed s0 that they would be snacep:ible of this highly artistic treatment, nor are their beantifal forma and motions cramped or impeded in the most complicated passages. The chaste aid delicate tracery and lovely arabesqucs with which the pianoforte adorus tbe whole are evidences of arétined taste, and also even of a slight fas- tidiousness, which is seldom perceptible in com- positions so absorbing and deep-felt a3 this elo- quent movement... Schumann's third 1 ayinphony in E flat was played at the last Puilharmonic concert in 8 mabnor which brought ont its grind and sublime character. ‘This orchostra being extremely large. is eminéntly adapted to per- form broad, eublime nmsic; though it does not succeed so well in Scherzi or in such extremely delicate work as for instance the introduction to Wagner's “ Tristan and Isolde.” The instra- mental introduction to the Besthoven-Cantata, written by Liszt for the Beethoven calebration at Weimar, has also founds place in theso pro- grammes. It consists of the Andante from Beethoven's sixth trio for pianoforte, vit and ynoloncello, scorea for fail orchestra with harp. Words cannot reveal the emotions berem ex- pressed. Tho music is fervent and toul-stirring, and yet seems alsd tranquil and: serene. It is deeply pathetic, serious, and grave, an bei core ‘cheerful. With the love and devotion of a troe disciple of the great master, Liszt selected these heartfelt ut- ferances, acd employed the orchestra to proclaim them with unanimous voices, that take, as it were, Beethoven's Own expreasions, sod return them multiplied seventy-fold. as the cordial re~ sponges of kindred souls. Thus did they who petformed at this celebration, in an ideal eense, place themselves ip = measure in direct com- Imunion with the spirit of him they delighted to assemble to honor. 7 THE OPERA, 8 Atthe Strakosch Italien Opera the principal works given towards the close of the season were Wagner's “Lobongrin™ avd Mozart's “Don Gicvanni” both of which drew erpwdea houses. In “Lohengrin,” Mule, Emaia Albani appeared to great advantage. Shé had evident- ly made the part of Elsa a special aud conscien- tious study. In many respects’ it was an orig— inal impersonation. ith scrupulous fidelity to the composer's directions, and with an earnestness which of itself did mach to gain admiration. Sigoor Carpi was paturally eii- nently well fitted to sustain the part; and Bliss Caryaa Ortrud and Signor Del Puente as Fred- erick accomplished much, and fully sustained tho interest, especially in the second act. But the opera season, on the whole, did not realize the expectations of tbe subscribers, and the revults were not entirely satisfactory, either in a pecuniary or artistic sense, Although great works were promised, hese were not produced, and it was in the end discovered that the -mauazement relied for success on the principal singers alone; for weak and faded Verdi operas, in which some special atiet_ might display special gifts and ac quirements, were put forward, while the great Productions of modern art were set aside, Slar- chetu’s ‘Ruy Bins” was a failure, and Verdi's ‘Moses da Hequiém,” though announced as the “+ greatest and latest” work of its most celebrated composer, did not prove to be a production of great inthineic excellence, or appear worthy of the congidcration which was demanded for it previbus to its performance. The wo1k con- tained somo awbitious attempts at fagal writing which immediately betrared tho incapacity of the epniposer to create roally grand ideas and do- velop them with perseverance and consistency into large organic structures worthy the text and tho occasion of its use. , Notwithstanding the length of time that was consumed in mesterips ita objectless difficulties, ahd the best efforts on the part of the conductor, soloists, chorus, and orcheetra to mako tho atraugo, uncouth, often alinost ludicrous, passsges acceptable, this mass proved a failure, and it was immedintoly with- drawn. It is now thonght extremely unlikely that it will ever be welcomed in the opera-house, the concert-room, tho sacred offices of the church, or eveh find a place in the libraries of art-students. On the return of the compavy, ezrly in March, weare promised arepresontation af Wagner's “ Flying Datchman” aud Meyerbeet's * Le Prophets,” both of which works are now in course of preparation. Meanwhile, wo are to have ashort season of English opera at the ‘Academy of Music with Miss Clara Louise Kel- joge for prima donna, which will give us an op- portunity of hearing Balfe’s posthumous opers, t<'The Talisman,” that roused the indignation of tho Papal authorities, knd also Meyerbeer'a © Boguenots,” Weber's “ Der Freiachutz,” and other works equally worthy of notice, But the greatost hopes are raised by Mr. Theodore ‘Thomas, who, in this: department, has already eccomplished so much. With bis magnificent orchestra and the assistance of a singer he gives recitals of eelections from operas, which as vet we can acarcely hone to see presented in visible form in all their completeness on the stage. By the aid of an abstract of the plot, and special illustration of the particular scene which he has chosen to perform, the audience are enabled to follow intelligently the music, end thus become familiarized with it and the leading character- istics of the opera, “By instramental perforni- ‘ances sione of selectious from ‘ Lohengrin,” the great public learned to love Wagner's music, snd Fherefore flocked in crowds to see the fol and completo realization of his art-work when it was at last produced in Italian. Similarly now, Mr. Theodore’ Thomas is working to pularize the music of the opers, Tho Ring of the Nibelung,” ° which great yrork occupies fonr nights in performance, and for which the Waguer Festival is being prepared. Tmmediately on the appearance of the pablieh- ed full score of “Die Walkuere” (the second night), Mr. Theodore Thomas announced the re- cital of d finale, with Mr. Franz Bom- Shertz ag voralist. ‘This finale included ‘ Wo- fan's Farewell,” and the ‘Magic Fire Scene.” ‘he music of the farewell bad previously been performed from advanced sbeets in manuscript; but now this portion of the opera has been giv- en entire, aud with such results that the higbest expectations are raised respecting Wagner and fuelacer works, in which he hax followed unhes- jtatingly the mararal bent of bie own gantus. Even the most ‘unsympathetic hearers have beea led to perceive that an opera is not necessarily = combluatinn of cemmoarniace mario, wre! verification, aud sing-song tunes which find a pretext for tune aud placo for the aingerin a atupid plot. For here is at once found highty original and beautiful music, & poem worthy of deep study, 4 combination which employs all the arts of visible representation with power hith~ erto wholiy unknown, a completo festival-drama which we may behold agape, with childish aston- ishment and delight, or ponder desply from many varied points of view, and not fail to find new food for reflection and gratification of the most voluminous dature. | 3 CHURCH amstc. On Obristmas-Day at Old Trinity the service was sung to Schubert's mass in B fiat, and for the offertory the second part of Bach’s Christ- mas oratorio was givep. Mr. Messiter, the anist and choir-master, conducted the chan- cef choir, with the aid of the charicel organ, Mr. Henry Carter conducted the full orchestra, and Dr.S. Austen Pearce presided at the grand organ. In many other churches tho music was elaborate, At the Chtich of the ‘“ Holy Trini- ty;" in Madison avenue, @ now organ is attract- ing very considerable attention. _1t contains the leading characteriatics of ail the Europesn build- ers, and modein physical scieice has sided i i i greatly it the formation of an instrument which fitly represents our time. English ‘‘ diapasons,” | French “trumpets,” German ‘‘gambas,” and electric and pneumatic actions are herein found that enable the performer to produce effecta | hitherto considered unattainable. An organ coucert is given every weok, at which its powers are displayed by the greatest resident orginists. ‘Those who have already appeared are Mr. Goorge W. Morgan, Mr. 8.P. Warren, Mr, James Pearce, Mr. Henry Carter, Mr. G. W. Warreu, and Dr. 8. Austen Pearce. ‘These concerts are increas- ing in interest, and promise to become a wettled | institution with us, and lead to a Jove for and ap- préciation of the great works that the literature | of this truly sublime inatrument contains. Ot Christmas Day, at Steinway Hall, » perform- ance of Handel's ‘‘ Messiah”: was given under the direction of Dr. Leopold Damrosch. The chorus included about 500 voices, and the orches- tra eighty instruments. Air. 8. P: Warren pre- sided at the organ, The ‘Oratorio Society” of New York combined with thd “Handa! and Haydn” Society of Brooklyn on thie occasion. | All'the choruses were oxtremely well sung, even the most difficuit ones, such as ‘Let us broals theit bonds,” and the final “Amen.” The { “leads” were attacked with vigor, the language ; was clear, the tones fresh and of & youthful | quahty. A certain vividness was attained that | gave thi well-lnown work a dramatic force and / power that it would not otherwise be seen to | possess, especially in the fagal choruses. We | ae prone an équally good performance of | Bath's Grosse Passions Musik in Lont, undor ! the same direction, and aiso the production of + “Ruth,” tho new cantata by Dr. Damrouoh. The Liedérkranz choras is busily engaged with | the atudy of & grand requiom by Bralims, which | will probably bé given iu public in February. i MUSICAL MISCELLANY. ® NUE APOLLO-CLUB CONCERT. | eo ‘The second Apollo-Club concert will take placé early in Febrnary (the exhct date will be an- | nounved hereafter), under thd aitspices of the {| new conductor, Prof.. Bergstein. A splendid | programme bas been undorlined, as will be seen below, and in its réndering tho Club, will have the asgistance of Mrs. T. E.Stacey, Miss Jessica E, Haskell, Mra. Watrous, and Mr. Ledochowski. The progratnmié will bé 4s follows: Panr 1 1. “ Glorious Apollo ”. 2 Domanza, from * Mrs. 7. #. 3. Wanderer’s Night-Soi 4, “ Gretchen sm. ‘Spinnra #, ‘ ATiss Jest ca Haskell, 5. “ The Tear ” (Quartette, with baritone solo)—— es ~. Mozart i i 6. Quintetts, from ‘ Magic Flute Mra, Stacey, hiss Haske:l, Mrs, Watrous, ‘brook and Bergstein, FART 1. 7. Piano solo. & Ritter’s choi 9, Bequital,... Blumenthal jumming clorus).- ira. We 10, “ Trus Love” (Duet, wi ‘Ars, Stacey and vss Haskell. 11, Priesta’ chorus, from “ Magic Flute *. 12. “ Le Bora —Tric as Aliss Haskell, Mrs. Stacey, ‘atrous, | 13, “Hunter's Chorus,” from “ Der Freischutz”. Weber ‘Allactiva mémbors aré requeatéd to be prompt at thé next two rehearsals, being the last prior | to the concert. ‘THE ACADENY OF MUSIC CONCERT. The third concert in the Academy of Music series wil be given this evening. upon which oo- casion Mz. V. H. Stanloy, recently of the Kel- log Engliah Opers-Tronpé, sill make bis appaat- ance. ‘The programme will be ax follows: PARTE 1, Overture—" Maritana”... ses Orchestra. 4-3 2, 'Cello solo—“ Fantasia from ‘ Trovatore’”.Eichheim Afr, H. Etchhetm, 6, Overture—“ Ruy Blas”. Orcheatra, 7. Clarinet—“ Alexis *. dr. B. i. 8. Caprice Heroique—" The awakening of eres : 9, Ballsd—“ Good Byo, Srectiven Hr. W. I, Stanley. 10, March—“ Ansie Laurie CONCERT OF THE OLDEN TIXE, ‘The Young People's Society of the Ads Street | Methodist Episcopal Church, between Lake and Fulton streets, will give a fall-dress concert of the olden time, at the church, on next Thursday evening, Jan. 25, with the following programm PART I. % n. 1 “strike the Crnibal <=. - 1, © Complains". 2, Madzigals— {3° 1G thy Merry Harvest inse 3, “Last Base of Summer”. 8 Ans H, Dé J. Starr. 4, ‘Hall Smiling Mora * (Glee), 5, “The Profesor at Home” the ~-Koutaky Hatton . dr, G. We 3. “ Dost Thou Love Af Mr. H, A. Wrht.and Mri 4, © The Month of Maying” (Glee) 5, “Swoot Night”... . Alss Starr, Miss Hinchclije, Mr, Brown, Mr, Cham- bertain, & “ The Singin’ Skew!” .. 7, “ The Marv/lous Work _... MOBNER HALL. eek ‘The following is the Turnér Hall programme for this evening : 1, “Medley March ” (new)... +. X Overture to “Tne Black Domino 3. Finsle from “ Masariiello”... 4. Orerture toa German Nati 5. Concert Polka........ 6 Preludio and Farentolia. ‘The foarth feubios of the Beothoven Society takes place at its rooms on Friday evening, the 20th, the programnle for which will be as followi i on vk i .. «Mendelssohn Allee jante expresaivo ; Motto, Allegro, quasi Presto ; Finale, Allegro, eppageiohato,) Meare, Wolftoin, Lewis and Hichncim, ng“ velcome 9 Forest,”.. - ae ri wit Je P, See, Song—""Th ea? Bay Song,”. . Mra Poot Ballad—G Minor—for_plano..:1......ss0s+-sOhopin Ars, Reaina Watson, Song—Here ‘neath tho trees,”. der Welamath onge—a , Songe—# Nous Elebe, peues Le ‘Aisa Jesswa Haskell. Andante and variations for two pi pianos..,..Schamann ‘Hiss Aqnes Ingersolt and Ur, Car Wolfeohn, , MUSICAL GOSSIP. Mr. C. A. Havenu bas been enzaged as org: and director of the music at the First Presby- teriun Church. ‘Tho chotr at present consists of ania’ iss Jensica Haskell, soorano ; Mrs, O. K. Jobn- son, alto; Mr. Phil Otis, tenor; and Mr. 0. T. ‘bass. Reet ends exening, Dec. 21, Mr. Jule E. Per- 4 basso in Her Majesty's king, the well-known Drury Lane Italian Opera Company at London, was unanimously elected honorary life member ofthe “Grand Masters’ Lodge No. 1” of that city. In response to calls he, ag the represents. tive of the Unted States, made some very fittin; romarka and sang géveral songs, both of whic! were warmly applauded. He then was the re- Cipient of the most bearty congratulations of the craft, who extended to him the hand of friendship, with the asdurances of » cordial wel- come.” “On last Friday evening » very enjoyable vocal and instremenial concart was given at the Grant Place Methodist Church. Tne programme was quite varied. After an introduction by the or- ganist of the church, Mr. J. F. Popo, the French Quartette, consisting of Messrs. Edward and Napoleon’ Decelle, Alfred Frenchere, and G.. Letourneux, | sang some . beautiful pat songs, which were well recei ved. en followed jelection in the Swedish lan- e'by Miss Emma Larson aod Mr. Alfred erpren, after which » sextette chosen from the Swedish Singing “Freja” sang sev ! York’ ready 15, by the Darpabee Operatic Company, which | Consists of the folidwing arcsts: Mrs, H. MM. 2. | Overture—“ Willian Tell ”. It is almost unnecessary to spenk of tho excellence with which these pieces were given, as the Socioty itsolf too well known in musical circlés in thid city. Mr. Charles Harris followed pith selections of the guitar. Another prominent feature waa the piano duet from ‘:Barbo Bleus,” performed by the Misses Mayer. Thé whole tas conducted by Mr. George C. Congdon in a matitérly man- ner, and went off very pleasantly, ‘Leonard Grover, the mehager of the Adelphi, is contemplating a spring season of Germén opera with a troupe headed by De Mureka. AN DIPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT, The Springfield (Maas.) Republican makes the following announcement, which will be of inter- est tothe numerous frionds of Dudley Buok in Chicago: - ‘Theodore Thorass has determined fo seck rest and recreation from his arduous labora in a visit to Europe, the coming summer, and wo learn that he has selected to succeed to hia baton the musician ond composer, Dudley Buck, This is 4 Nigh compliment and no light responsibility for Mr Buck, but Ale, Thomas bas wit- nested him condiict the great orchestra for a few even- ings, and fa satisfied that he can do it worthily. Mr. Buck has, of late years, mado avery painstaking study of orchestration, a9 indeed his “Don Munio” be.ra Witness, He haa resigned his position as organist of | the Shawmut Avenue Church in Boston, to take effect April 1, and will probably go to New York a¥oat the .! firet of May, when Mr, ‘Thoroas habitually opens his summer-garden uear the Central Park, It is good to hear that Mr, ‘Thomas intends to rest & wEile, for, as ‘Mr, Hussard says in bis interesting sketch of the man and bis career in the Febriéry Scribner’s: “It is clear that the labor of the past five years ought not to go on much farther. No man is strong enough to bear the intense pisysical and ments! strain on this perpetual travel, worry, responsibility, and excitement.” Per- hapa, when Mr, Tuomas returos, ho may find New to keep him and enablo him to carry out the grand achemes he has cherished from the start, NEW MUSICAL WORKS. ‘Tho Leipzig Wochendlat sunouhteli new symplionies by Ph. Rufer, H. Urban, add W. Bargiel, which will oon be brought out in Ber- lin, ‘Mr, Bonawitz’s new opeta, ‘Ostrolenka,” was produced last month at tho Philadelphia Acade- my of Musio before & large and fnendly audi- enco. ‘Qstroleuka is en improvement upon: “The Bride of Messens.” It has more force and originality. Many of its airs ard exceeding- ly protty. ‘Tho story of “Ostrolenka” ia takon from the history of Poland, and hss considerable dramatic spirit. The quartet was composed of Mme, Lang Ziegler, Mile. Lamara; aud Herr Fritsch and Herr Remmertz, of New York. Horr Tommertz sang the tulle role, The operetta outitled “Sir Matinaduke; or, Too Attentive by Balt,” comedy by Madison Morton, libretto by Benjamin E.. Woolf, music composed expressly for it by Julius Kichberg, will bo given in Kennody Hall, Boston, Feo. Smith as Mrs. Mouser; Mise Alice Carl as Belsy Raker; Mi, William J. Winch a& Afr. Crumry; Mr. H. O- Barnabso as Sir Marmaduke Mouser; Jur, Howard id. Dow, pianist. The followivg uew music bas just been re- | céived by the Root & Sous Music Coinpany: | * Friendless and Sad," sodgand chorus by Hast- bura; “I've Gwine Back to. Dixie,” song aud chorus by C. A. White; ‘Tho Lane that Led to | School,” song and choras by H. P. Danks; “Golden Locka Have Turoed to Gray,” song and chorus by G. W. Peraley; “Sweet Ione,” a quar- tette in canon form for mixed voieos, by F. W. | Root; “Tne Stranger's Btory," an arrangement for piano, by G. D. Wilson; “Thy Voice, On, ; Wind,” Bir, Gill’s new son: d ‘The Shining | Streets of Gold,” by Arthur Baker. _ Solma Borg, the ‘well-ktiown Sivedish writer, and Mario A. Brown, the equally well kaown translator, have commenced the publication of "Phe Lays of Sweden aud Finland,” the first of which, * Fifang Onekau"(** Vain Desire”), by Kari Kollan, has already appeared from the mu- sical press of Louis Meyer, Philadetphia. The scheme is od adotiratle ond, and will subseve s very important purpose in making the Ameri- can people acquainted with the quaint and bean. tifui Noithern music. Each number will bave the Eogligh and Swedish words. De Long & Oster- lind, 70 Dearborn street, Chicazo, will nave the whole series for sale as fast as issued. orrfuany. *_ ' Azhong the deaths of musicians reported since our Inst review aro tlose of J. Hag, Cupel meister at Vienna; F, G. A. Daaverne, trampet- teacher in tho Paria Conservatory; Thomas Edgar, thé celebrated London oboist; and Heinrich Schaeffer, the song writer at Hamburg. John H. Schomackcr, who established tho Schomacker Plato Manufacturing Company, died in Philadelphia on Saturday, the 16th inst., at the age of 75 years. He came to America in 1837. Ho was a prominent Mason and assisted materially in all German charitsblo enterprises. THOMAS. | Yenterday's programme of the Thomas mati- nee, in Now York, was as followa: Parr Symphony— Harold tn Italy,” Op. 16. Octet for string instrameuts, Up. 20... 1. Allegro modarato ma coli fuato, 3. Scherzo, ART II, ‘Traumerél.,...-+ ie Schumann Introduction, } cq Actof the “ Metstersinger __. Ci Von Nurnberg "...-scsseee ++ WagBOF OPERATIC GossIP. Clara Loutsé Kellogg and her English opera i gompany bogio a three wéeks’ adason st the Academy of Music, Now York, on the 25th inst. They will produce ‘The Talisman" of Balfe in ; the course of the engasemeiit. Afterward thoy will take the New Engiand tour. Mr. Gye bas visited Vienua to, seo Signor Verdi's “Aida,” with a view to prodaca it at the | Royal Italian’ Opera next season; and it is | rumored that he has been negotiating for the return of Madame Pauline Lucca to London. ‘Niemann, once tho most celebrated tenor of Germany, and éngaged to sing in Wagnet’s trilogy, i said to be ruining bis voice by dissi pation, while Wachtel lives soberly and Fn at Wiesbaden, though now singing at Berli Nochbauer, lesding terior of the Bivariad Opern- House, has got two years’ leave of absence from King Louis, is now starring it around Gcrmany, ‘and will come to this country next season. A Visnna correspondent of the Adtenaitm writes that Mmé. Pauline Lucca bad been 80 succeesful in her ropreseutatious at the Opera Comiqus, in the Austrian Capital, that: she Led beén engerad to sing at the Imperié! Grand Opera-House, and her fit character was to be Leonora in Donizetti's ‘Favorita,” io German, of course, but, for some odd reason, the last act was to be sung in Italian. Bir, Adams was to ba Fernando; he is called an Awarican teuor, but he was.born in Yorkshire. He sanz at Covent Garden Theatre, in tho’ English adaptation of Meverbeer's .** Africaine.” Portions of Wagner's ‘‘Die Walkura” wero given at the third of Theodore Thomas’ syai- phony concerts in Neiv York, Wedacaday evea- ing: This is the first opera of Wagner's Nibe- luugen trilogy, and the composer seems to bave very réadily relaxed his objection to the frag- mehtary performance of these works, which de- mand to bo witnessed as a whole; for orchestral series, and even full opera scores, in. advance sheots, are received by Mr. Thomas, who, to be eure, has earned that favor, if any one bas. The selections from tho “Walkxure” were two, “Wotan’a Farwell” and the ‘The Fire Charm. which form the finale of the work. The critics agree that Thomas’ orchestra did it wondertully, as wis inevitable; Reinmertz sadg, in German, the music of *t Wotan.” _ Sir Julius Benedict has received a valuable tes- timonial in recognition of his 70th birthday. He baa hai an opera on Victor Hugo's **Esmeralds” (in “Notre Dame”) in readmess for these eight years. Itisthe habit of “musical” England, of late yéars, to leave ita own musicians unhon- ored; Balfo's “Talisman” only got represented because Balfe died, and evan thon the libretto had to be Italianized. Artbur Sullivan com- jased, years ago, an opera calted the “* Diamond lecklace ” (libretto by the late Mr. Chorley), of which the overtare, and the overture alone, has been heard in public. Macfarren and Henry Smart have aleo operatic scorces lying unpub- lishéd and unknown in their portfolios. ‘The London Athengum gays of Offenbach's new work: “The admirers of the music in * Les Denx Ayeugles,’ in the ‘Oiphee aux En- fers,’ in the ‘Genevieve de Brabant,’ in the *Pont des Soupirs,’ in La Belle Helono,' in ‘La Grande Duchesse,’ in ‘Les Brigands,’ io ‘Lo Roi Carotte,’ and in other works by M. Offen- bach, will be surprised at the change in his style which is visible in his new opera, ‘ Whittington.’ It is a production of another echool than the opera bouffe, the fame of which he hes spread through Europe, In writingan opera expressly for this conntry, M. Offenbach must have been strongly influenced by our ballad form, and he must have studied old English songs and dances before he began to fet the legend of ‘Whittington and His Cat.’ There is little, in- deed, of hiv usual exaggeration and of his ex- travagance in indalging in.outrageous effects. The story was a tempting opportunity for bur- Jeaque notation; but he haa carefully abstained from distortion and imitation. He hes sunk his bouffonnerie a outrance, snd be hss substitated’ charm of melody, combined mith the illustrative instramentation of the sound as well as the fan- cifol musician,” Minnie Hauck, the American prima donna, has succeeded Pauline Lucca in the affections of the Berlin public. ‘The opera season at New Orleans bas been brought to a premature elose through lack of patronage, a2, © De erica Germany, Wsting te (fives pems account REGEO ARTISTS. Berney, a well Lager Germ: healt present sojourning in i Anseiger des Wesicns, “his father, the violoncellist and tho violinist, be- | with the voice with wonderful effect, and when sicisns with whom. be becamo acquainted Leipzig. ‘The Director of the Condorvstotiaen in that city, Herr Schleinitz, introduced them to Mr. Hernays es smong the best scholars of the iietitution ic which they bad received their mu- sical education. Theso musicians are Senor Jimenez and his two sons. Jone Julian and Ni- casio Jimenez. They are pure negroes, of tlio distinctively negro trpe. Jiminoz, the father, was formerly a slave in de Cuba. How he waa first taken to “urope we are not told, but he Jearned thé violin in the Leipzig Cou- sérvatory under Mendelasohn’s ditection, and then returned to Cuba whe: by giving concerts and playing at balls, he earned money onbdugh to ensbis him, four years ago, to take his two eons to the institution in which ho had himself been tanght. All three aré now good inuaicians, days Herr Bernays, all three really great musical artista: Nicasio aid ing the more clegant, feeling performers. ‘Tho younger of the cond, Jose Julian, ia pianist. ‘Though he plays with astonishing facility, thers ig. apparent, it seems, a certain coarseness or in- efiiciency in the execution of strong paseaces, betraying manifest lack of gennixie eeneibility. The two former. accompany their inatritiente tnese colored men play triostogeth peso Play triostogetherthe Ustenor DRAMATIC, THE ILLEGITIMATE IN AGONY. GROVER 4 COLE ARE REDUCED TO THE BOWL. Tf competitiot’ really is the soul of trade (in- | cluding the trade in amusements), it has are- markable way of reducing the body thereof fos degree of wannesa and languor waick barely contains the soul. Competition is beginning to tell, and not in the way anybody anticipated. Competition has forced, ao its managers say, the Adelphi into—no, not bdtikruptty, but beer, or, ifi other words, beorizto thé Adelphi. It is a pleasant fiction, is thid same conipetition, Look atit. Says Grover: “When a show comes along jike the Can-Can, it hurts all the others. There are men enough who prefer such a thing to a de- cent variety-ahow anyday. If the Mayor likes the Can-Can, and everybody finds in the Can-Can something ‘atixfying not to be dicerned in tho | Adelphi, we must come down to their levél, and , offer them a fréé-and-easy entertaininent instead of anindecent one. if they taka it, woll and | Rood. They will;” says Grover, “bécauss the coarseness of thé Can-Can disgusts, and cannot draw 2 second time.” Wel! and good. But Mr. Grover starts on 8 wrong hypothesis. ‘The Mayor is not necessarily a type of the thea- | tre-goer, and it is not certain that he likes the in. He has not officially éaid so, and he | bas only attended it as Mr. Colvin. People go wheré they get the most for their money. ‘They went to the old Adelphi in shoals, and regretted | the destruction of tuat popular placé of amuse- ment, bécdude the performances there were excellant, with bat feiy exceptions. There was ® constant .ron of novelties which dtéw and drow, atid the beer and tobacco were incidentald which the ladies never indulged in, when ‘ladies’ nights” and matinees were attended. The New Adelphi has not given a8 good a performaucé. All the beer brewed in the Nortuwest, coupled with all the Bourbon and cigar stowed away in the city, would not make thé Worrell Sisters attractive, nor Sam Devers @ graceful or whulesonte per- former. The Adelphi has been open a fortnight asa variety theatre, ‘The opening pérformance waa a disappointment, ard there was little im- provement. the second week. Consequently Grover 4 Vole clamorfor that panacea of finan- cial disappointments, beer ana; tobacco, It is “ iMogical, tslge in principle, and false in tasre.” Beer and tobacco are not on trial. celient in their proper use. degrading to add them to sn eater ‘Turner Hall is 4 favorite place of smusement, where excellent musis ig furnialied, where Ger- man Iadieg are a8 mach at home as in McVicker’s ‘Théatre, and wheré no indecorum is evér ad- mitted. But it is not thé begr that takes thie la~ died aud cultivated: gentlemen to Turner Hall. It is the excellence of. the entertainment. It is | not beer which tilled Hooles’s last week, or to- bacco which crowded the Academy of Music and AicVicker’s several nights. It 1s the fact that the entertainments were popular. ‘The free-and-casy style bas its fascination, certainly, to's class, butid it not rather a dese~ cration to convert this suberb theatre into a gigantic béér saloon, with stage attractions thrown in? Isit not rather haaty on the part of { the management to adopt this policy beforé giv- ing the house a fair trial? Would it, not be better-for Mesers. Grover & Cole to secure atr tractions of s superior order, and sed whether they wonld not draw enormous houses; Lf their audiences have been positively large with but a nioderate degree of excellenco un tte staze, would it not be well to make them lirger bys atill greater degree of excelleuco; ana; failing this, then have rocourge to the free-and-easy ? Undoubtedly it would. The sum of’ enjoyment is not in the beer-maog surely, nor in the wine- glasa; nicotine is not the superlative of gratification. It may be, in competition with the Can-Can, but one gains little | honor in. out-Billinsgsting = fish-woman, | even by the use of polished expletives. ‘The Adelphi was to have eutered the lists against McVicker’s, -Hooley’s, the Academy, the Mu- zenm—not Burlingion Hall, and tho Halsted- | Street Opera-Honse. ‘The illegitimate was to rige to the dignity of the popalar, not sink to tho questionable. Thore is no reascn why the exhi- dition of feats of ekill, strength, and daring, or marvels of scenic splendor, should ba mentioned | hekitatinigly in pohte circlea; nor does thére ap- pear sufiicient inducement for men of brains and good tasteto voluntarily withdraw from the safe ground of prosperous respectability to pick their way uneasily upon that of questionable proprie- ty. Indomg it they assame a grave responsi- bility, burdon themselves with untold anxicties ; shut the door in the faco of half their friends, and seek to win those whose good-will is after all of very doubtful value. ‘That is what Mesers, Grover & Cole are going to do, and for what? Because their.opening-bill was a weak one. pected nila AN UNAPPRECIATED REFORMER, ‘MB. BLAISDELL’s APPEALS IN BEHALY OF TEMPER- ANCE: ‘This is s heartlesa world, where tha cravinga of hunger are too often mocked by the offer of stones. Ask Blaisdell; he knows, how cruel a world it is, As he plaintively expcstulates while you pick up tha severed button from your overcoat What ia the use of trying to elevate the morals of s comiaunity whose moral champions Have ho moral sense?” Naturally tho question is unan- swerable. ‘*Am J right?” says Blaisdell. “You bet I am right.” This answers one query, but Jeaves the other in a state of Dundrearyish pro- fundity which no human mind can hope to fathom. He is right. What is the uso of trying to do it? Here bas Blaisdell bee preaching # temperance sermion two weeks long, pattially by proxy’ and sfterwarda in person. Here for twelve nights and six mati- nee, making a total of eighteen performances, has be shown the terrible consequences of st- tempting to accustom tho buman @sophagus to undue ‘indulgence in imported liquor. and no= body has seconded his efforts. Not.a Sunday- school has sent an order for the whole parquet ; not a church organization bas chartered tho drees-circlo; and, alas, the Washingtonian Home, the Temperance Lodges, and the Good Samari- tans, while they exulted in this new means of subduing the Fiend, contributed not a penny— not even their own thrico-rescued persons to en- courage the performance. Clearly the. matter had not been brought home tothem. Doubtless the mission of this convincing tragedy was to them a seeret as profound as death itealf, Ad- vertising was useless, for “the class he aimed at” did not place reliance upon even the adver- tising columns of @ daily paper. He must make apersonal appeal, andbe didi. fe made s personal appeal to Miss Willard. How that interview. resulted, we knorr, but how it was conducted we don’t, bat suggest. . Imag- ine Blaisdell, then, hat in hand before Miss Wil- lard, beaming with his most eeductive smile (and he can smile; there is no doubt of the loveli- ness of it either), and saying: ‘ Miss Willard, we're faked up a show at the Afuseum that you ought to see. It’s atemperaricé lesaon, with a rattling good plot aud two fits of jim-jams, and all sorts of rage and misery. The leading man’s heavy on the budge, and he gets them, and raises Cain generally (scene set in two fiat), and upsets the lamp, practicable bed takes fire, and there's the deuce to pay. Now we've put thia thlog on in the hope of busting the liquor busi- ness and helping some poor cul to quit badging. Fakira are not looked upon any too well, but ‘we'vg acted in this matter with upusual courage, and you ought tosend your young Isdiesin » body to eee the show.” A = ‘But, whatever he might have said, she replied thus: If Mr. Blaisdell really meant what he said, and from the sincerity of his manner (it was the emile that got tat, the rorue) she had no doubt he di eo would be glad to_bave his signature to the little pledge she drawn up, had and with which he was of coursé familiar, As for sending all ber young ladies, or pub- licly- racommending ‘end indorsing the a | of heathens; -made ia vaio, and bia -level yet. did not go to theatres, becsu#e she had tio time to waste. They might be very improving, but her mission lay in a different direction. His au- tograph would be a pleasant souvouir of a noble resolye, and might encourage many young men to.quit liquor. 2 There iy yot a blank where Blaisdell’s auto- graph should have been placed. ‘His next personal appeal was msde to Robert Collyer. The stalwart Briton cheers his great heart sometimes, it ia said, with a clads of lager, without losing any of ‘his spiritual parity or sbat- ing s jot of bis manhood. But he is the most rigid foe of intemperance, and when Blaisdell told his story with some degre6 of variation from the above, Collyer shook bis hand heartily, com- mended his purpose, and said he would give him all the help hecoula. He weat to the thea- + tre sometimes. He admired Booth; thought ' the world of Jefferson, and liked good actors ! generally. He promised to go himself, did this simple man, and even ventured s condi- | tional assent to Blaisdell’s proposition to gira j 1 i his Sunday-schdol childien a warning araipst bloe ruin, which, engraved upon their etill soft | sensibilities, would deepen as timie wont by, and | all that sort of thing,-which the reader can | imagine for himbelf or herself: It was # grand | stroke of policy. Whether or, not Mr. Collyer | saw the piece, we do not imcw. Blaisdell re- : served seventy-two seats for the Sunday-school | at every performance, but Unity Church, as s { body, did nop see it, nor did its sons or daugh- 8: ! In making s “personal appeal” for a chew of | tobacco, = bold front and brazen cheok will win, -In matters of moral assistance or char- itablé solicitation, howéver, perseverance is the card to play. Any Kansas committeaman, book agent, or stockholder in an orphan asylam or chuich-fair _ knows that, snd __ actots, who know everything, must include this tritle saa precept. Blaisdell kept ot snd not very much Jater confronted severe aud | ascetic more! instrdctor in the pérdon of Dr, } Sumnér. Dr, Sumuer’s ignorance of the stageis something beyond mere worda, and thefa is not room énough in s daily paper, crowded with im- | ortant news and advertisements, to tell an aux- | ious world how httle he knows of that Oriental fiction designated ‘Behind the Scenes.” ‘When Blaisdell aaid ‘‘cully,” ho rately took j down & Greek Jexicon and made 4 note of it asa modern corruption of the word Klos, beaatiful; | when the phrase ‘*fakir® fell upon bis éar, he couaulted ati Arabic plirase- book to obtain a clew ; to the habits add designs of this unfamiliar sect- and after putting together such fragments _cf.ibis _—_viaitar's couversation #8 indicated «x knowledge ; of. English, and then looking sternly at him, sid: You are an actor?” . “Certainly.” “And wish me to go to your theatre?" “An affirmative. “And vou call ité niuseami #” A nod of-aseent. “Then Imust decline in the}: most emphatic manner. A thertro ia not « placo to which can recbmmend any of my friends to go; & museum above all is not @ fitting resort for clergymen. If you are sincere in your effotts to reform the taste of society, and overthrow the | demon of intemperance, come to our ptsyér- i meetings. Yor actors, but they for the sutcess of your efforts. Museum? You astonish me.” 3 It was clear that the leatned divine spoke the simple trath. So Blaisdell went elsewhere. The Church opened her doors to him, but her pockec was hermetically sealed; the temperance societies pattad him on the shoulder, ana sald “Go in.and win,” but showed no desire to go 1n to the thea- tre themselves. ‘The inmates of the Washing- tonizn Home were too familiar with thé reality of det. trem, to wish to see Mr. Blaisdell counter- feitit for them. His nal appeals tere rethren of the stage laughed long and loud, and the echo of their merrimient haa not yet ceased to peal over Blais- iscomfiture. The auditor of tais aad 7 Of hiimad callousness caa only throat hid hidud into Hid pocket; and forget that the list button bas been pulled from his coat. ars PERSONAL, .. ACTORS AND WRITERS. Di, Simon Quinlan, joitit proprietor of Hos ley’s Theatre, has just rocoveréd from & advers attack of pleuro-pneumonis, and is round again. He takés his punishment like a veteran, Mr. Alfred J. Knight will give a saries of Shak- spearean readings Fraay evening for the La- dies’ Mite Society at the Christian Church, eor- ner of obey atreet and Warren avenue. J. L, Toole, the great English actor, will re- turn to tho Academy for a short engagement in March. Itia likely tliat his next yisit will be one of the most prosperous of the season: Charles Wyndham, who has been succeésfully managing comedy pérformances at the Syden- ham Crystal Palace, has recently pocketed the proceeds of a rousing benefit tendered him b; the patrons of the place. : Gérdiner’s new ledditig mari at the Academy ia Mr, Con Marphg, well known to fame in another branch of the profession. Unlike George Clarke, he has sacrificed his mustache te the exigencies of trigedy. It iss good sign. : Mis. Da Montsign, a charming St. Louis lady, who, with her father, Mr. Kershaw, has beon stopping in Chicago for some time, makes her be wi il bé Welconib.. Wé will pray Bat go to tho | Gobut in St. Louis to-morrow at the Olympic, supporting Afr: McCullough. Bartley Campbell has written « new Irish pieco called ‘‘Grana Uaile,” and, for the benefit of the solitary person who has bash enlightened by Mr. Campbell, it may be stated that it has not a Fonian in it pursued by « troop of redcoate. ‘This is géneraliy known now: Mr. William Crane has during the past week | hud the additional labor of attending to the du- ties of stage-m-naceér, and surerintending the production of “ Magnolia,” as well as playing the Most important part. Mr. Ryer has resigned the position. aging. Bartley Campbell paid Biaisdell a sincero double-barreled compliment Thursday. They weré talkiog over the'terms of a theatrical ven- ture.in which Blaisdell was to be tho star. Campbel! was natnrally guarding the treastry; Bisigdeli assaulted it atseveral points, alternate- lv winding and losing. He made a last demand in these-words; ** But the company is an awfully bad one.” ‘True, but my boy,” said Campbell, “that’s just the point, You will shine out against them, d’ye se. Eh!” Blaisdell seea, but- doed not know. which light is the correct one. eo. JOHN McCULLOUGH. THE QUALITY oF 1 AoTING. ‘Asths acting of.Johu McCallough becomes more familiar, the impression deepens upon the obeervant auditor that he is sitting before the most remarkable actor on the American. stago. If he is chief who outranks hid fellows in the loftiest walks of the drama,’ then McCullough suroly ia the most positive actor of to-day, for Ha bas selected for his study the highcet and nobleat of ideal characters, and bas found for them such expression as ceaseless study, natural gifts, and constantly incressing experience only canimpart. And he adds to the resources of his mind from day today. He hasresched no dead- He is still toiling to perfect himself; atill looking upward with anesgereye. What he ia we know, and were he not to climb bigher, he would be reckoned among tho great actore of the day, But there is no danger of his ceasing to rise. ‘The seoret les in his own personal charac- ter, in the man’s heart as woll as his braio. There is in his acting acharm which it is not casy to define, a spell of rich, deep earnestness, of purity, and of ““bweet good will to all man- kind,” which leaves a glow of kindly warmth, aud melts the mere individual into harmony with the noble thoughts and actions of the ideal ho geeks to embody. His heroes are but phasca of bis own character, more or less distinctly fig- ured, and iive and move. ‘They are uot the " stiff-jointed mechanical shells, made up of ingenuity, affect, tradition, anddiscernment. They are li beings with hearta aud pulees ; victims of passion, or superb fon rising’ above weakness, sna elevating alt with whom they come in contact. : fis fine athletic figare, his ruddy manhood, to which sickness is = stranger, his graceful car- riage and firm yet easy poise, the exhnberance of bis movements, his fine head, the lines of hia firm, clear-cut face, telling of sincerity, loyalty, and tenderness, are but the outward vestare of a vature singularly sweet and sunny, whose ‘paoyancy is that of youth which ripened into- manhood under the genial influences of perpetual summer. Experience bas been no bard task- master to John McCullough, ache and the thousand natural shocks which flesh ia heir to” have not torn nor shaken him. "The spontaneous sympathy of boyhood with ‘what ia pure and lofty bas in him survived tho ordi ills of life; association with the grand- est models of human thought and life which Shakspeare and the great dramatists of history have drawn, has given to him the color of their own being; the companionship for many years of that gloomy giant, Forrest, who admitted but few ints the arcana of his motives and inner hire, has held before him 2 study to whose elementa of strength and beauty he had assimilated, and whose blemishes he coald not fail to observe. ‘The groveling influences of « profession in which all is not pure or heroic have had littls effect q ‘bim, aod odeat bearing atirset toward him all who fe have no; g. way, and “ grapple them to his sot! with hooks of. atecl.” Sacha nature, reared wuder such 1 fluences, cannot fail of sympathy with the of poetry, nor of introspoction into the mstives snd promptings of guch characters. There are moods to which be is perceptibly a straucer. Experience bas not wrung hic: into sympathy with what 1s morbid or unwholesome, and 3a one most accomplished writer hae said. of him, there hasbeen no rustle of autumn leayea .1m his life, The dreariness of isolatioa, the bitter- ness of. solitude, are something he has not- known, and ean only display by intuition, not by: experience. It isin the rare resnits of this matis intuition that we distinctly recognize, his resources. But be hasnot lived these moods. But it must not be supposed that he has risen. to his prerent fame by ths meze abgadance of lua inward graces. There are some narrow minds on whom success in others works iiké poison,” and to those who have never felt the iniluence’ of his presenco it 1s no difficult task to attribnie his position to bid mére personal qnalitibs. | F there is no legitimate parentage for such a faticy. There never was amore patiest student than John McCullough. There is scarcely a character: in the range of the modern drams, from the low- est upwards, in which he has not exploited with varying success. It is study which bss developed: his technique to what it is; aid he is coutinuse* ly improving. . The minor parta which be played. in the past were studied with such care] that an, hour will recall them to his mind as frees and’ rfect as they ever were, Avd herein es one elament of his smccesd. His capscity. has expinded ‘with what he stuitied, and he constantly adding new experience.to bis til his 1 store. What we call genius ig most apt to boa fuller ripaning by experience and by study than the world usually discloses, ana, se¢n in its full loom, it is mistiken too often for = God-given: perfection,—a realization of Pallas sprang ace’ coutred from the head of Jove,—whereds it is ag sure a development as the traditional oak. frou. its insignificant acorn. MeCullough’s growih is s thing of modern timed; it hs beeu, watched eagerly. Binco he traveled with Forrest hs big. lived and prospered and atisdied on the Pacis: Coast, and, from # good sctur, has_grown, im-+ peréaptibly at homo, by gigantic stridag 34 meas-° ured abroad, to be # great one, —_-— THE THEATRES, A QUIET WEEX. ‘There is not much to say for the drama, lant week. Diallneas waa especiaily dull ail rouhd,, except at Hooley’s, and on one or two nights #6} the Academy of Music. For all of. which nobody; in paitiedlaris very much to blame. It #'# pleasure to see somebody doing well, and that the public should for a change turn to Hooley's ig a good aign, Indeed, it is just beginning” to be discovered, after some months of uncertain-; ty, that his satucx company is s good‘one; ava- that after all acting consistoth not in the mult titudd of mba. ‘Ihe attendance at te Museam: and Minstrels was ight: at tho: Adelphi tnd au= diencea were good. but not.as large aa they might bave been. There is not much hope of improvement: THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC. . ea McCallongh’s engagement at the Academy de~ volopa certain weaknéssed in the supporting power of that theatre. With the etception at” one gentleman ahd two ladies it was rathor's’ ghastly exhibition of incompetence, and, though. ‘Mr. Piggott’s ucene-painting wae something re’ markable, the spectacle of light-waisted supers playing English peers in homespiin was affecting im a painfully mirthfal dégtee. There is poasi-’ bly raw material eniongh-at this thedtre tb be: worth something it properly dresséd, and either: ‘Mr. Williams or Mr. Gardiner Jacked apprécia-- tion of the proprieties in this respect. There was something ao Indicroua in the appesranct of - somo of the army that oge would willingly has nacrificed them. As gladiators, they should ha been slain without mercy ;-ag rebele, drawing and quartering would have been s miercifal re-* heftotheaudience, ‘Mr. Murdoch’s Pharsarius was a clover piece Gf acting, and the fact thar he was pbysicilly rither light for the part indo uo differonce.... 2 ‘The present week wili be notable for the firsé; Appéarance in Chicago in eeveral years of ond of the moat accomplished ladies of tht American stage, Mrs.. Agnes. (J, B.) Booth, who will play: the part of Lady Constance iu ‘*King Jobn,” diinia which has not teen given in Chicégd within the memory of man, end will not agard* for years, Sae is supported by J. B. ooth as, King John, and Mr. Joseph Wheelock as Faulcon-. bridge, than whom it would bo diffenlt to wd © greater favorite in Chicago. Dropping. the superlatives, which are fountt so profusely scat- vered through the bill, there ia prospect of @ choice performance. ‘The cast inclides Murdoch 2s Hubert, and the whole of the Ackdd- my company except Mrs. Williems sud Miss. " HOOLEY'S THEATRE. 3 Btagnolis * has made a very decided hit, sid the atidiencés have been steadily growing: ‘The acénic effects and the comedy acting éarty the” piece, which will be retained during the week atnew runs smcothly, and the points are neatly: made. ql ‘THE MUSEUM. The temperance lesson has been rémovad a¢ beyond thé Seapacity of Chicago's moral intalli-- gence, and Mr, Blaisdeli bas returned once more to the old stand-by of the old Museum, ‘ Uncle. ‘Tom's Cabin,” which will, be played all the weak. and at the matinees. Mr. Blaisdell playa Georgu, Harris ; Mr. Soggs, Uncle Tom ; Mr. McHale, Tegree; Miss Nelile Molenry, : Topsy, with’ songs and dances, and tbe cther eharatters ace; more or less bippily assumed. A ” THE ADELPIUL. eee ‘The management have added new attractions, to the bill this week beyoad the free-and-casy_ Tie Crane's success so fir igencour. | manner of the énterttinment.' Tha piéce d= rekistancs is the ‘Field of the Cloth of Gold.” which ran for many weeks at Croaby'a Gpere~ House years ago, and which wilt have atthe Adelphi the advantazcs of most excallent scea- éry, costuming, and spectacalar effects. The olio {9 greatly strengthened by tha Boisset fawily” of, gymnasts, aud the redistribution of omer d artists in new roles. Pricea have .baen reduced,- and 25 cants knocked off for tlis prvilegs of re- serving seats, Ladios will be admitted Tours day nights, ‘when there will be no amoking.ce drinking in the additorium. aan ESE LECTURES. a BTAR LECZUKR COURSE. Z ‘The next entertamment of the Star Courses: will be a very brillisnt and eloquent, one if the; opinions of the Eastern press can he taken 28 #, fair index of tho ability of the Hon. William. Parsons, whois tobe the starof the decasion. Al- though lie makes his debut here Thaniday sight, he is well known in all the large Eaxtern courses, where he hes proved one of the most popular: and able lecturers in the field. Tho managers oF the Star Course predict that bo will immediately? take rank in Chicago with Phillipa, Dougherty, or. radlangh in eloquenco, and will compare with, Fietda or Cartia in literary eultare and style. His subject here 1s “Michael Angelo,” and the following brief outline will wdicate the scope” and character of the lecture: yee Bet ‘The Grand Principle of Art; Tae Varions Mantiosts, Artist mantic Picture; Dauta ; Count Du Buonstoits + ie ars of 3 Rival; Modck 5 A Bis of the Antique; Leonard da Vinci; Ons Who Can Do Everytning; Lolenzo de Medici; The Cartoon of Pisa; Juiius Ii. ;. ‘The Trampet af Fame 3: The Sistine Chapel ; Raphael and Angelo; - teal Engineer; Florence in « State of Noble Dafense; Bei The Two Old Me Homé ; The Fire of Age; T! “guspends the Pantheon 29 Air :” Lewons from an Earnest Life; The Lubors af Love, The sale of sents will bogin to-morrow morn- ing at Janneb, McClurg & Co."s, snd the leabure’ takes place next Thuraday night in 2c antl Ursateat Work; ‘Deducibl- FORZION TRAVEL 2 e The Rev. Francie Mansield, of thé Churth ef the Atonement, commences s course of thre¢ lee. tures 2t the church Tuesday evening, on foreign travel. “3fr. Mansfield is aclose observer and a: pleasant speaker, and the lectures cannot fail to prove of great interest. Tickets. forthe course have beon fixed at $1: single tickets, 50 cents, to be obtained of C. Wilson & Co., No. 649 West" Lake atreet, or any momber of the veutry cf tho. church. ‘THE ATHESZUM, Monday evening Z. Eastman will lecture in the free course on ‘Gerrit Smith.” Beata tres.’ Tuesday evening Robert Heryey will lead. the. cae in, English Literature; subject, *- Robert, jarns. ‘Tharsday at 8 p.m. Dr. A. E. Small will give’ the fourth lsctare in the afternoon Dime Course: on “The Mora! Influences of Dyspepsia.” - - ‘The Superintendent of the Methodist Sasday.” school in our place is an underteker, and thersis some taik of asking him to resign, not onty.be~ cause he makes the children sing “I -wowd n..4- live alway,” regularly every Sunday, gut'td~ cause on the back‘of the reward-caris:' azet given to obildren he has had pri ry eons list of bis sates for faperaia 4