TWO DOLLARS A YEAR,] NO. 1.

EDITOR'S ADDRESS. On presenting the first number of "THE FAMILY MINSTREL" to his patrons and the public, the editor feels it to be a pleasure, as well as a duty, to comply with the usages of the profession. It is to him a source of regret, that the regular issue has been unavoidably delayed beyond the period suggested in the specimen sheet; but he trusts, that the present impression bears abundant evidence that the delay has resulted, as was designed, to the advantage of all interested in the work. The publication is now permanently commenced; and the hope is indulged by its founder, that it will supply a desideratum which has long been wanting in the musical world. His reasons for the confident indulgence of this hope, rest on various considerations.

I. Contributors. Since the appearance of the specimen number, he has made final arrange. ments with several eminent musical composers, and proficients in the science. From among these it is only necessary for him to give the names of HASTINGS, IUCHO, IVES, JONES, MASON, SCHROEDER, SHAW, TAYLOR, and WAINWRIGHT, to assure the public that his promises do not rest on mere sound. Most of the gentlemen named, are pledged contributors to the Minstrel.

II. Letters of Commendation. In addition to the valuable certificates accompanying the spe. cimen number, and which are repeated on the cover of this, several unsolicited communications have been received from various parts of the United States, from some of which extracts are annexed, and which will be alluded to hereafter as occason may require.

OLIVER SHAW, of Providence, who is extensively known as the author of several popular musical productions, in a communication to the editor, dated the 15th of September, says:

"I have read your Prospectus for the 'Family Minstrel,' with great pleasure. From my long acquaintance with you, believe and hope much good may arise from its publication."

LOWELL MASON, Professor in the Boston Academy of Music, whose reputation as a Composer and Teacher of Music, has been long established, under date of Sept. 10, writes as follows:

"I cannot doubt but that a paper devoted to the cause of musical education and church music, conducted on proper principles, will be highly useful. From the specimen you have given, I doubt not, that the Minstrel' will be of this character. You have my most cordial approbation and strongest wishes for success."

THOMAS HASTINGS, now of this city, and distinguished as a leading pioneer in the cause of devotional sacred music in America, remarks, in a recent note:

"The Family Minstrel, though a new thing, will not, I should hope, be considered and treated as a stranger. You have my kindest wishes for your success."

Professor WORRELL, who is at the head of the musical department in La Fayette College, Eas

SECOND EDITION.

NEW YORK, JANUARY 15, 1835. ton, Pa., on having seen the Minstrel noticed in a religious periodical writes:

"I have for years, been exceedingly desirous of seeing such a work as the Family Minstrel given to the public. I am particularly pleased with your plan of advocating and urging the expediency (or the necessity) of teaching vocal or sacred music, in sabbath schools."

J. R. BARR, a teacher of music in Lewisburg, Pa,, remarks, in a letter of September 12:

"The Family Minstrel is a publication much wanted now in the United States. * ** May your paper soon be in the hands of all who may feel interested in the music of our churches and thus reward you for your laudable undertaking."

T. B. MASON, Professor in the Eclectic Acade. my of Music, in Cincinnati, Ohio, gives the following decided token of approval:

"A work of the kind you propose to publish, has been a long time needed in our country, and I most sincerely hope, your undertaking will be successful."

A gentleman, who is the Principal of a literary institution in Kentucky, observes, under date of the 8th ultimo :

"Your Prospectus of the 'Family Minstrel' has afforded me no small gratification. I think the work is exactly what has long been needed in this country. # * * * * *The plan of making vocal music a branch of study in all our seminaries of learning, is one of which I have long been an advocate, and I hope ere long. to succeed in putting it in practice in the one of which I happen to have the charge."

In addition to these flattering testimonials, several others might be given by the editor, if the state of his columns would permit. The reader is referred to the accompanying cover, where a large number of additional commend. atory notices are inserted.

III. The Minstrel will be free from the least denominational basis. It may strike some, that this consideration is founded on an objection which does not exist. But, strange as it may seem, there are those who have inquired, (no doubt innocently,) "to what denomination is the Minstrel to be attached?" Such persons are confidently assured, and through them the public at large, that the notes of the Minstrel will be those of union and harmony.

IV. The Minstrel will be of a decidedly moral tone. It will be the aim of the editor by manly argument and fair criticism, to convince his countrymen of the superiority of sacred over theatrical music. His acquintance from past experience with the latter branch of the science, has been such as to enable him to speak with becoming confidence. Few persons are aware of the vast injury done to the morals of the youth and families of this country, by the lavish praise bestowed on theatrico-religious performers at oratorios and in choirs.

V. Reviews of New Publications. Notices of such works on music and its associate sciences as come under the observation of the editor, will be inserted as often, and at as great length as possible. In faithfully scanning these productions it shall be his aim, that candor and moderation guide every movement of his pen. Nothing of a strictly personal character shall

[PAYABLE IN ADVANCE. VOL. I.

mark these critiques; while, at the same time, the purity of the public taste shall be vigilantly guarded from abuse.

VI. Poetry and General Literature. The connexion between Poetry and Music, has ever been so intimate, that the Ancients 'considered them one and the same. It will be the direct aim of the Minstrel to aid in perpetuating this intimacy, by presenting its readers with appropriate poetic gems. Sketches, religious gleanings, (free from the influence of sect,) and a brief passing Miscellany, will merit all the attention in the power of the editor to bestow upon them.

VII. Music. Special care shall be taken, that the Music found in the Minstrel, shall be constructed and arranged agreeably to the strictest rules of musical science and taste. A part of it will be harmonized for two or more voices, with an accompaniment for the Organ, Pianoforte, or other instrument, and adapted to words composed expressly for the Minstrel, or to those of some of the distinguished poets of the age. In making selections for this department, the aim of the editor will be-to furnish the public with Music of a character decidedly useful, and adapted to the various relations of social life. While some of the pieces will be designed for the services of the church and the family altar-others will be fitted to cheer the moments of weariness; to cultivate the social and patriotic feelings, and elevate the moral

taste.

These will be particularly useful for the school room, the parlor, and miscellaneous companies.

VIII. Execution of the work. Of the endeavors of the editor to give ample satisfaction in this respect, evidence is afforded in the present number. And the editor pledges himself, coming forward as it is his privilege to do, under the sanction of the long established names that appear in recommendation of the Minstrel, that no exertion shall be wanting on his part, to equal, in this department, any publication in the country.

On these considerations, and on others which will be developed as his work progresses, the editor of "The Family Minstrel," makes a respectful appeal for the support of the enterprise. All that he asks or expects, is sufficient patronage to enable him to carry his novel, but immensely important experiment fully into effect. His appeal, therefore, is to those classes of society which can best enable him to accomplish this object.

TO MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL, He makes his appeal with confidence, because they are and ought to feel themselves to be universally and immediately interested in the work. The excellent rule of Luther, not to sanction the ordaining of "young fellows to the office of preaching, except before they have

been well exercised and practised in the school of music,"-will apply with increased force, in some respects, to settled Pastors. Their office is emphatically the highest in the world. The influence they wield takes hold on eternity. It becomes them therefore to be vigilant in the cultivation of music, not only for themselves, but in their families and congregations. The remark is eminently true, that the music of our churches has been hitherto regarded too much in the light of recreation. On this subject min. isters would do well to observe the practice of those who preside at the opera and the theatre. If they "speak, and teach, and exhort in song," should not ministers convert directly to the cause of their Master, the eloquent and impres sive, and holy powers of music?

The effect on the surrounding community where ministers give good heed to the cultivation of music, has ever been, and ever will be, favorable. Numerous instances of this might be given, if space would permit. Let the reader refer to the Life of the celebrated Rowland Hill, and he will there find it stated, that large numbers were drawn into Surrey Chapel, solely to hear and admire its fine choir of singers.

Much more might be said on this branch of his Address, but the editor trusts enough has been already said to secure the hearty cöoperation of those who lead "the sacramental host of God's elect.'

TO CHORISTERS.

It is a truth, as well known as it is melancholy, that there has long existed among Choristers, (as well as others connected with music) a bitter and deep-rooted jealousy. Most assuredly this ought not so to be.. Under its baleful influence, the science withers and decays. The conscientious and the good of our age withhold their patronage from men who only wield it when bestowed, to render their co-workers in the same cause. This destructive state of things will continue, and the progress of music to its destined elevation in this country, much retarded, unless choristers will do their part toward cherishing more of a mutual confidence, and more readily indulge in an interchange of sentiments and feelings.

To effect, in some degree, at least, these de sirable objects, the columns of the Minstrel are thrown open to such Choristers as may wish to bring about a better state of things. Let this very important class of devotees to music come forward with their various contributions; let them aid in the general circulation of the Minstrel among their choirs, and acquaintances; and, by so doing, they will not only plant the olive-branch of peace and contending factions, but beget and increase an abiding interest in music among the community at large.

TO TEACHERS OF MUSIC.

The editor desires it to be distinctly understood, that in addressing himself to this portion of his fellow-laborers, he does not assume to be an oracle or dictator. His object is not to attempt the instruction of those who are his superiors in years and in professional acquirements, nor to lord it over any of his associates, however humble; but this is, and shall be his only aim-to stir up the minds of teachers to the duty of increased exertion in the too much neglected cause of music, and to induce them to favor the public with contributions from their pens.

TO THE HEADS OF COLLEGES, SEMINARIES, AND SCHOOLS.

The importance of making music a branch of national education, is beginning to be somewhat felt and acknowledged. It is a consideration which will occupy a prominent place in the Minstrel. If the laws of a people speak their political character, so do their "psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs," proclaim their moral predilections. The Faculties in our colleges, and the heads of our seminaries, and schools of every grade, have responsibilities placed on them with reference to the universal cultivation of music. which it behoves them most seriously to ponder. In the Minstrel they will find a co-adjutor ever attentive to their requirements, and ever anxious to please.

TO PARENTS.

One pernicious error of parents on the subject of music is, the employment of Teachers at a great expense of time and money, who have taught their children the science merely that they may be accomplished. It would seem that all, even the discreet and pious, have been ready to sacrifice the utile to the dulce:-(the useful to the sweet.) To sing and play well in company or at parties-to be admired for an accomplishment rather than to be loved for the beneficial effects produced by the exertion of a cultivated musical genius-is an error too fashionable to admit of denial. It is an error, however, which parents can promptly remedy if they will; and in the application of that remedy they may implicitly rely on the constant exertions of the Family Minstrel.

Another prevalent error is, the indiscriminate use in the social circle of many songs, (having nothing to recommend them but that they have been sung by some fashionable singer!) the moral sentiment of which is calculated to poison the waters of life at its fountain. This error has gained so stealthily on the better portion of the community, that its fatal progress has been but too little observed. The glitter and glare of fashion have effected, to a certain extent, the most prudent and watchful minds; and that which was introduced ostensibly to add new grace to the expanding beauties of youth, has been too often retained by the designing to foster the wildest and worst passions of the soul.

In the language of the Prospectus :—" Every passion and feeling of the heart may be said to be subject to the control of music, and capable of being wrought upon, (whether for good or for evil,) and moved and excited by its talismanic touch," How important is it, then, that its influence, acknowledged to be so potent and universal, should be converted to the cause of virtue and religion. This, by the blessing of God, the Minstrel will endeavor to do. Instead of the false and destructive taste which has too generally obtained, it would plant and cherish a deep-rooted love of music, in its eloquent and heavenly breathings, adapted to impress the noblest truths of religion on the young spirit, in a style at once winning and chaste. It is therefore, with a confident expectation, that the editor looks to parents for countenance and support.

TO THE YOUTH.

The importance of inducing the rising generation to cultivate a correct taste for music, must at once strike every discerning mind. They are

destined soon to fill the places now occupied by their fathers-to be pillars in the church of God, and to wield the destinies of the Republic. Every sanctified infiuence, therefore, which can be brought to bear upon them, should command the notice of the Christian and the Patriot. Already is there abroad a mass of publications designed expressly for the young; and in some of these, the most important and abstruse truths of christianity have been taught in such a maner as to render them not only familiar but attractive to the intellect of the little child. The introduction of GALLAUDET'S "Book on the Soul," in which the wonderful operations of the mind of man are described under the figure of a watch, and illustrated in the most pleasing manner, has done much to simplify principles heretofore consider. ed too deep and metaphysical for the capacities of children. And the editor knows no good reason why music-one of the first sciences that attracts the ear of the infant as it is hushed by the lullaby of the nursery-should not be introduced and simplified in the same way. To him such an event would be like a literal fulfilment of the Divine prophecy: "out of the mouths of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained praise."

Finally, the editor appeals to the Christian public at large, for the success of his undertaking. It is the pious, and the patriotic of his country. men, whom he expects will hold up his hands and encourage his heart. From the fashionable flaunterers in musical attire, he expects opposition; and, indeed, it will be his aim, by striking at the root of the flagraut existing evils, richly to deserve it. His object is, to elevate and establish, free from foreign blandishments and frippery, (while he acknowledges his dependence on certain extraneous aid,) the character of AMERICAN MUSIC; and he assures his fellowcitizens that it will not be through any want of zeal or industry in him, that this noble object is not achieved.

[We presume the writer of the following article will be recognized by many of our readers, when the signature is seen In addition to occasional articles written expressly for the. Minstrel, we shall borrow several from the "Western Recorder," inserted in that paper while he conducted it. The initial "H.," will probably be appended to the various pieces from his pen, which appear in this work.]

IS PSALMODY A DIVINE INSTITUTION?

Intelligent Christians of the various evange lical denominations, notwithstanding the frequent inconsistency of their practice, are now agreed in giving an affirmative answer to this question. For awhile after the Reformation, however, there were not wanting those who embraced the negative. The second Baptist church in Newport, R. I., founded in 1656, furnishes such an exemple. The Columbian Star says, respecting it, that "the propriety of psalmony was for a long time contested in this church. Some were for singing, and some were opposed to the custom, as being too nearly akin to popish usages."

Some may be supposed to smile at such prejudices as these; but let them take heed lest they entertain those which are far more unreasonable. Many, who now profess to believe on this subject, have embraced merely a dead faith -a faith which permits them practically to

despise the music of the sanctuary, and to say "what a weariness it is." And more than this: many, who, in the abstract, acknowledge church music to be an important divine institution, are yet found, virtually, to deny it to be such in detail. They exclude it from their family worship; they make little or no account of it in their social religious meetings; they totally dis. regard the apostolic injunction, to "admonish one another daily in psalms and hymns, and spiritual songs." They evidently withhold, in a great measure, their devout attention to this portion of the worship in the sanctuary. They neglect the whole business of cultivation, and call in question the utility of schools, and even pronounce them to be injurious to religion, howover well they may be conducted.

These men may say, in reply to these charges "We have no taste for music "-" It does not particularly interest us"-" We have no timeno inclination-no talent," &c. &c. All this, however, is but pleading guilty; and should they add, that the abuses of music have prevented them from enjoying it, they would then take up the very plea of these ancient Baptists; for no abuses of religious music can be more flagrant, than were those introduced by popery previous to the Reformation. H.

What can I say in conclusion, to induce every individual, without delay, to engage in the cultivation of this pleasing, useful, and important branch of education. As a study, it has the most favorable influence upon the mental pow. ers; it strengthens the memory, and softens and elevates the feelings. It is a source of the purest and most rational pleasure; it guards the temper, regulates the passions, and improves the heart; and above all, it inspires the sentiments of devotion, gratitude and praise, to the great Author of all good. Its importance is universally acknowledged-but here the matter ends, with by far the greater portion of the Christian community. How very few there are who take a part in this interesting portion of the services of the sanctuary, and how cold and listless too, in many of our churches, are the songs of Zion! Christians, these things ought not so to be. Let us, one and all, make up our minds, whether it is a duty to cultivate the voice or not, and act accordingly.

It is not true, as has been sometimes supposed, that the faculty of singing has been distributed in such an unequal manner, that a few become eminent in music, without effort or instruction, while this privilege is entirely denied to the many. The pathway to skill in this, as well as in every other art, lies through a persevering course of study and effort; and experiments have recently been made, both in this country and in Europe, which clearly show, that almost every individual may learn to sing, who begins at the proper age.

Is it not to be hoped that a still greater share of attention will be paid to the cultivation of this

long neglected art? Much may be done in families and common schools, towards learning the principles of notation, and thus pave the way for the cultivation of the voice, to accomplish much in little time. In short, let parents once be convinced of their duty in relation to this subject, and go about the business of cultivation in earnest, and the work will be done.

[The extract below, from the " Albany Telegraph," will remind many of our readers that there is a great deficiency in the knowledge of Sacred Music, in churches and in families. Christians! how long shall such a state of things be suffered to exist!]

SINGING IN FAMILIES.

It is owing to the neglect of vocal music in the instruction of young people, that we meet with so little singing in families; that families in a social way are so seldom known to enlist their voices harmoniously in a single attempt at vocal music.

Now this is wrong, universally

so, and deeply to be lamented in every point of view. For, in the first place, family singing, as well as family prayer, is important to keep alive in the heart the sentiments and feelings of piety; to engage the attention of youth especially, to the sentiment which is repeated, and in all cases to promote our growth in virtue and religion. But again: there is no other way upon earth, as we find from long experience, in which we can secure an interest, and preserve habitually our skill and acquaintance with musical expression. The necessity is perfectly apparent. We must sing at home; and in this way, and in this only, can we sing with ease and fluency in the house of God. And on all these accounts, it was remarked by President Edwards, (as it was a matter of unaffected grief to his heart,) that the Church of God committed a 'great sin' in regarding this subject with so much levity, and not singing His praises devoutly in a family relation and capacity.

MUSIC, AS A BRANCH OF INSTRUC

TION IN COMMON SCHOOLS.

In the United States, singing is usually considered as an accomplishment which belongs to the luxuries of education. In Germany, it is deemed an essential part of common school in. struction; as a means of cultivating one of the most important of our senses, of softening the character, and especially of preparing children to unite in the public worship of God. It is considered no more remarkable, and no more difficult, for children to read and write music, than language; and musical tones are made the means of associating valuable ideas with the common objects and phenomena of nature, and the ordinary events of life.

The following ordinance, extracted from the Prussian Official Gazette, (Amts Blatt,) Cologne, Jan. 15, 1828, will show the light in which this subject is viewed by that government :

together insufficient; hence it constitutes an essential part of educating instruction, and if constantly and correctly applied, renders the most unpolished nature capable of softer emotions, and subject to their influences. From its very nature, it accustoms pupils to conform to general rules, and to act in concert with others. It is far more sure of producing such an effect in youth, when the heart is very susceptible of impressions of this kind, and no importance should be attached to the assertion of many teachers and directors of schools, that we can by no means anticipate this influence upon such wild youth as are found in the country. In general, this belief originates entirely from old prejudices, from a want of proper experience, from a love of indolence, or from an inadequate knowledge of the course and method of instruction. Convinced of the certainty of the result, where the means are correctly employed, we shall not stop to consider such objections as appear to be grounded solely upon exceptions. On the other hand, we shall hold those teachers in particular esteem, who even in this subject, labor with zeal and success, in the conscientious discharge of the duties of their calling. Finally, we expect that those efforts, together with their results, will be particularly noticed in the report of the school directors.

Having recommended this important object of primary instruction, (the immediate connection of which with religious instruction, no one can fail to perceive,) to the zealous exertions of the teachers, and the careful attention of the directors of schools, and, at the same time, having urged the study of the best writers upon the subject, which so far as they relate to school instruction, ought to be found in the libraries of every district, we shall here bring forward some points, which demand a closer and more universal attention.

'If instruction in singing is to accomplish with certainty the objects proposed, it must be long continued without interruption, and, of course, it is indispensably necessary that a regular attendance be required during the continuance of the duties of the school, and enforced in the strongest manner.

It is unnecessary to illustrate the contrast between the last remark, and the usual desultory mode in which singing is taught.'

Two things are wanted in order to render a similar course of instruction practicable in this country; a set of tunes adapted to the capacities of children, and calculated to associate the sensible with the moral and spiritual world in their minds, and a simple, analytical course of instruction.

Annals of Education.

[Since the above article appeared, both these wants, we are happy to state, have been supplied by several gentlemen-particularly E. IVES, jr., of Philadelphia, and L. MASON, of Bostoneach of whom have published useful works, calculated to interest and improve the minds of youth. A large proportion of the materials employed in constructing these works, were se lected and brought to this country, from Germa ny and Switzerland, in 1828-9, by the Rev. Mr. WOODBRIDGE, the taleuted editor of the Annals of Education,' where he had frequent opportu. nities of witnessing the most happy effects consequent on introducing musical instruction in

their improved schools; the moral influence of which, was visible in every department of social life. A specimen of the music, may be seen on page seven. Of the system of instruction pursued in those schools, we intend to speak hereafter. ED. MIN.]

[From the German]

THOUGHTS ON MUSIC. Whence does music derive its charm to delight mankind? Whence its magic power in effecting such wonders on the soul? It may be answered, that music produces all this, as being a feeling sense and expression of the symmetry and rhythmical power that reign in the creations of genius. May it be traced to the pure enjoyment which the ear finds in the concord of sweet sounds? In part, certainly. Is it the pleasure experienced in perceiving dissonances unfolded and resolved, and in the power to divine and anticipate the ideas. of the composer,-is it this that delights the connoisseur? Assuredly it is so in part. But the principal effects of music are magnetic. We are woven together of fibres tremblingly alive to a sense of what is delightful, and are therefore strongly affected by sweet tones. These are found to vibrate differently, according to the different character of the individuals upon whom they act; hence, the same music does not please all alike; for the degree of pleasure must be proportionably greater according to the susceptibility of the nerve. Music is the art of youth. It is the spontaneous growth of the soul; it perishes if forced to put forth its blossoms in an atmosphere not congenial to its natuse. In manhood, the fibres become less susceptible; the sensibility is blunted, and at last, instead of the ardent, enthusiastic admirer, we find the cold, calculating connoisseur, who criticises where he ought to feel. The present rage for being regarded as virtuoso, will, it is to be feared, tend to drive the very Muse from her sanctuary.

MUSIC.

a

"Whoever despises music, I am displeased with him. Next to theology, I give a place to music; for thereby all anger is forgotten, the devil is driven away; and melancholy, and many tribulations, and evil thoughts are expelled. It is the solace of a desponding mind."

LUTHER.

EFFECT OF MUSIC ON A WOLF.

As a Scotch bag-piper was traversing the mountains of Ulster, he was one evening encountered by a half-starved Irish wolf. In his distress the poor fellow could think of nothing better than to open his wallet, and try the affects of hospitality; he did so, and the greedy wolf awallowed every thing that was thrown to him with the greatest voracity. The stock of provisions was soon exhausted, and the piper's only resource was to try the virtue of his bag. pipe, wich the wolf no sooner heard, than he took to the mountains with greater precipita. tion than he came down. The poor piper could not so perfectly enjoy his deliverance, but that with an angry look at parting, he shook his head, and said—" Aye, are thase your tricks? Had I ken'd your humor you should ha'e your music before supper."

THE EDITOR'S TABLE.

NEW YORK, JANUARY 15, 1835.

The editor deeming it of importance to lay before his readers, his views at length, concerning the character and object of the Minstrel,(see first page)-has been compelled to exclude much interesting matter designed for this impression. Among other articles, most of the following will be inserted in the next number: "Introduction to a Brief History of Music;" "Church Music, No. I." "Style in vocal Music, No. I.;" "Boston Academy of Music;" "Review of New Publications;" "Musical Societies," &c.

The editor indulges a hope that a Journal conforming to the plan exhibited in the present specimen, and conducted with a competent share of ability, will receive sufficient encouragement to reward the labor aud responsibility of the enterprise. In fidelity to the promises made, he has no fear that he shall ever be found wanting. As to his capacity to perform what he has undertaken, let the future numbers of the Minstrel speak.

Several persons to whom this number is sent, are not subscribers. If they do not wish to become so, (and we trust their convictions of duty will decide in our favor,) they will oblige us by writing their names on the margin, and enclosing the paper in a wrapper, directed to The Family Minstrel, New-York."

66

We return our thanks to those editorial gentlemen who have noticed so favorably our specimen sheet. In the large number of notices with which we have been favored, not a solitary unfavorable allusion has been made. The hands extended to us from so many different quarters, are most cordially clasped, and, it would ever afford us pleasure to receive any suggestions they may hereafter present.

MUSICAL PUFFING.

One of the greatest obstacles in the way of the onward and upward progress of music, is the indiscriminate puffing of Theatres and Oratorios, Operas and Concerts, by the conductors of the press. Those who are most deeply interested, from moral and patriotic considerations, in the cultivation of sacred music, are disgusted with the flippancy of a writer who in one column will laud an unprincipled actor or actress, and in another attempt to criticise the perform. ance of the holiest anthems ever composed by man! Hence sacred music, like some branches of legitimate drama, has fallen into extensive disrepute with those on whom it most depends for universal establishment. An illustration of these remarks is found in the following para. graph, on the last Oratorio of the New-York Sacred Music Society, taken from one of the daily papers of the 27th ultimo :

"We hardly ever recollect to have heard the magic of song exert a more powerful influence than was exemplified when Mrs. was singing that incomparable Aria,

Angels ever bright and fair.'

Her voice was in its finest tone, and the modulations were expressed with a clearness-a softness-a distinctness that never was surpassed, and which hushed a thousand hearts into admiring silence. It was a lovely spell, in which feeling and emotion was bound by triumphant beauty; nor was it impos

sible to hear the silver tones that warbled each plaintive cadenes of that enchanting air, and to look upon the features of the fas cinating vocalist, wreathed with the sweet and expressive smile of conscious beauty and of conscious power, without catching the delusion, that the white-robed form which captivated so many hearts, might be one of the radiant and lovely spirits she invoked, in strains that seemed on earth to rival their own"!!!

Can any thing be more shockingly blasphe. mous? And especially does this system of newspaper puffing appear revolting, when it is universally known that the frail mortal so lauded, is not only no "radient and lovely" angelic spirit, but a practical scoffer at the sublime and holy principles of Christianity-a member of the theatical fraternity! We speak without reserve-for the abuse is one which merits being handled with unsparing rebuke. Such perversions of the public taste, show to what extent editorial criticism is diverted from its high aims; (the conductors of the journal from which the extract is taken, being professedly members of the Christian church;) and they also show the necessity that has long existed for the establishment of a well conducted paper on the plan of The Family Minstrel.

We have lately seen an old quarto volume of more than 600 pages-two columns on each page-which was printed at London, in the year 1609, or 225 years since! It contains a copy of the " Bishop's Bible," translated in the reign of Queen Elizabeth-the Prayers of the Protestant Episcopal Church-and the Psalms of David, versified by Sternhold and Hopkins, set to Music-a line of Notes and a line of Words being printed alternately. The music consists of one part only, a simple air, with the C clef at the beginning, and is almost entirely of a slow and solemn cast. It was not usual in those days, to sing sacred music in a variety of parts as at present, but all who assisted in the psalmody, sung the same strain, taking octaves, thirds, and fifths, from the principal pitch, to suit the compass of different voices, and add something of richness to the otherwise simple melody. The musical characters are evidently printed from moveable metal types; and although so very small, as that the five lines and their spaces, do not occupy more than one-third of an inch in width, the notes being of the diamond shape, are perfectly legible.

We subjoin the title page, literatum, of the third or last division of this old book. By it we learn, that our ancestors had discovered, what at the present day is every where too evident, that there are in use ungodly songs and ballads, which tend only to the nourishment of vice, and corrupting of youth.' Under this head, we would class all the vulgar, profane, and bacchanalian songs, and the silly, insipid love-sick ballads. Christian parents! do you ever think of the vast injury done your children, when suffered to practice music of this corrupting stamp.

"The whole Booke of Psalms. Collected into English Meeter, by Thomas Sternehold, Iohn Hopkins, and others confer red with the Hebrew, with apt Notes to sing them withall. Set forth and allowed to be sung in all churches of all the people, together before and after Morning and Euening Prayer, as also before and after Sermons, and moreouer in priuate Hovses, for their godly solace and comfort, laying apart all vngodly Songs and Ballads, which tend onely to the nourishment of vice and corrupting of youth."