The Committees of both Societies have been compelled to abandon for this season their usual programmes because they can neither command their usual subscription lists, nor secure a hall were it possible to give the Concerts.

Yet there is a wide-spread feeling that musical activities should not all cease. The members of the Chorus and of the Symphony Orchestra are therefore continuing their weekly rehearsals, the cost of which is, as in other years, borne by the members themselves.

The Work selected as being peculiarly appropriate for the present time is Brahms' "Requiem," and that it may be sung in all its beauty, solemnity, and helpfulness as a Musical Service the Dean has offered the use of the Nave of the Minster. The date is Tuesday evening, December 15th. The expenses for principal vocalists, professional members of the Orchestra and further necessary charges must be, however, about £100.

To meet this the Committee ask for donations from the supporters and friends of the Societies, and whilst any surplus will be devoted to War Relief funds, the Committee urge the obligation of helping the professional musical class who are suffering much distress because of their many cancelled engagements. Instead of their having in York four engagements they can only receive from us this one.

The Dean has promised a donation of five guineas; donations and promises of assistance have already been received from others, including the Lord Mayor (Councillor J. B. Morrell), the ex-Lord Mayor (Councillor Hy. Rhodes Brown).

The Treasurers, Mr. Arthur Peters (Musical Society) and Dr. E. M. Smith (Symphony Orchestra), will acknowledge all donations which may be sent to them at Beckett's Bank, York, or forwarded to them through the members of both Societies who will gladly take them.

Whilst obviously there cannot be any grading of seats or reservation of individual places in the Minster, the Dean informs us that he will arrange for a sufficient space to be available for all who contribute to the fund. For this purpose tickets will be issued.

(Miss) D. L. FRY, 7, MinsterYard.
G. W. DANIEL, 64, Huntington Road. Hon. Secs .