_Philadelphia_ has, of course, many fine musicians. The most prominent vocalists are _Madam Brown_, _Mr. John Mills_, and _Mrs. Lucy Adger_; and the most prominent instrumentalists are _Miss M. Inez Cassey_, pianist, _F.J.R. Jones_, violinist, and _Edward Johnson_, violinist. This city enjoys the honor of having been the home of _Mr. Frank Johnson_, and the place of organization of the celebrated brass band that bore his name. It has been the intention of the writer to give a somewhat extended sketch in this book of this famous impressario and his talented body of performers; but as yet he has not succeeded in obtaining the necessary materials. He will mention, however, briefly, that Mr. Johnson was a well-educated musician, very talented and enthusiastic, with fine powers for organization and leadership. He was exceedingly skilful as a performer on the bugle. In his hand this instrument "Became a trumpet, whence he blew Soul-animating strains: alas! too few." Besides, he played well several other instruments. He was very much esteemed, and was foremost in promoting in many ways the musical spirit: he was, in fact, the P.S. Gilmore of his day. His band attracted much attention all over the country for fine martial music. Some time between the years 1839 and 1841 Mr. Johnson organized a select orchestra, with which he visited several of the principal cities of the country, "astonishing the natives" by a fine rendering of the best music in vogue at that time. Indeed, the novelty formed by such an organization,--all colored men,--its excellent playing, and the boldness of the enterprise, all combined to create a decided sensation wherever these sable troubadours appeared. It is said that sometimes, while the band was on this tour, many persons would doubt the ability of its members to read the music they were playing, believing that they performed "by ear," as it is called; nor could such persons be convinced of their error until a new piece of music--a piece not previously seen by them--was placed before the band, and by the same readily rendered from the printed page.