The selection of works and music to be performed has always occupied a great deal of the time and attention of the committees, who have made it an object to bring out some new work at every festival. Most of Handel’s best Oratorios have also been performed, including, of course, the “Messiah,” which is never omitted from the programme. Haydn’s “Creation” and “Seasons” have also been frequently given, while Dr. Spohr’s “Calvary,” “Fall of Babylon,” and “The Last Judgment.” Dr. Bexfield’s “Israel Restored,” Pierson’s “Jerusalem,” and Molique’s “Abraham” were first performed in this city. The programmes have also included Sterndale Bennett’s “May Queen,” which won all hearts; Benedict’s brilliant “Undine,” and many other approved compositions. The committees, acting on the principle of securing the highest talent, have generally engaged the best vocal performers whose services were available. In proof of this we need only mention the names of the following female vocalists:—Madame Viardot Garcia, Madame Caradori Allan, Madame Clara Novello, Madame Sainton-Dolby, Madame Alboni, Madame Malibran, Madlle. Tietjens, Madame Patti, Madame Lemmens-Sherrington, Madame Rudersdorf, Miss Louisa Pyne, Madame Grisi; and among the male vocal performers may be mentioned Signor Lablache, Herr Formes, Mr. Weiss, Signor Rubini, Signor Belletti, Signor Morini, Mr. Santley, Mr. Sims Reeves, Mr. Cummings, Signor Gassier, Signor Giuglini, Signor Mario, Mr. Phillips, Mr. Lockey, &c. &c. The Norwich Choral Society, comprising 300 members having good voices, altos, tenors, and basses, has contributed greatly to the success of the festivals by the excellence of the choral performances, especially in grand Oratorios. The Choral Society was established in 1824, and had its origin in the establishment of the musical festivals, Professor Taylor being its chief promoter. In 1825 the Professor removed to London, and the direction of the society was confided to the Rev. R. F. Elwin. The management of affairs was entrusted to a committee of twelve, who were annually elected by ballot at a general meeting. The practice was held in the Old Library Room or in St. Andrew’s Hall. The society has undergone many changes, but has always maintained its high reputation for choral performances. A memoir of the late Professor Taylor, which appeared in the _Norfolk News_, contained some information as to the part he took in promoting the festivals. We give the following extracts:—