The novelties at this festival were Professor Sterndale Bennett’s Pastoral “The May Queen,” and Benedict’s brilliant Cantata, “Undine,” both of which were performed with great success. The Pastoral was produced with complete success at the Leeds Musical Festival, in September, 1858. Mr. Chorley composed the poem, and he deserves some credit for the verses, as well as for the dramatic character of the piece. The overture is a beautiful composition, and the whole work displays a marvellous combination of simplicity and ingenuity. Herr Molique’s new Oratorio, “Abraham,” was performed here for the first time, and conducted by the composer, who at the close was greatly applauded. The words are taken from the Old Testament, and the characters personated are Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Isaac, Angel, and Messenger, who in turn depict the different scenes in the life of the patriarch. He is exhibited as a saint, as a warrior, and as a great sufferer. Full scope is given for the display of human passion in almost every phase, from triumphant joy to a sorrow that borders on despair. The incidents are picturesque, striking, and varied, calling all the powers of the orchestra into play. The principal vocalists were Madame Clara Novello, (her last appearance in Norwich,) Madame Weiss, Miss Palmer, Madame Borghi Mamo, Madlle. Tietjens, Signor Giuglini, Signor Belletti, Mr. Sims Reeves, Mr. Wilbye Cooper, Mr. Santley, Mr. Weiss. Instrumental solo performers, Miss Arabella Goddard, piano; Mr. Sainton, Mr. H. Blagrove, Signor Piatti, violoncello; Mr. Benedict, conductor; Mr. J. F. Hill, chorus master.