There is, surely, much to go upon. The noble school of ancient English Church music, and the national folk-music in which England is exceptionally rich, form a firm foundation on which to build. Dvo[vr]['a]k indicated the lines on which to found an American school of composition, by writing a symphony based on national melodies, and instinct with the spirit of the people. Will not some of the young English composers, in their days of youth and enthusiasm, emulate so splendid an example? * * * * * England was musical once upon a time; and bids fair to be so again, in the highest and noblest sense that the word can convey. England was "merrie," once upon a time; and, if the early days of irresponsible gaiety can never return, she may well be happy in the prospect of a noble art restored to her. In that firm faith, I close these pages. INDEX A PAGE Albani, Madame 238 Amateur Bands 144 Antiphony 94 "Army Quadrilles" 140 B Bach Society, established 206 Balfe's "Bohemian Girl" 182, 183, 196 Balfe's "Rose of Castille" 184 Ballads 23, 247 Ball, John 43 "Basoche" 192 Beecham, Mr. Thomas 181 Benedict's "Lily of Killarney" 184 Bennett, Mr. Joseph 196 Bennett, Sir William Sterndale 99, 110, 201 Beringer, Oscar 112 Birmingham 112 Birmingham Choir 245 Bizet's "Carmen" 195 "Blest Pair of Sirens" 102 Blow, Dr. John 64 Bodda-Pyne, Madame 184 Boosey & Co., Messrs 247 Boyce, William 88 Bradford Choir 246 Brass Band Contests 260 Bridge, Sir Frederick 246 Broadwood & Sons, Messrs 248 Bunn, Alfred 182 Burns, Georgina 187 Buononcini 83, 106 Butt, Madame Clara 247 Byrd 6, 39, 43, 53 C