In his next concert, Nov. 16, two of his performers were Germans, if we may judge from the names. Mr. Curtz played the harpsichord, while Mr. Hoffman Jr., was a clarinet soloist.[179] Another concert not noted by Sonneck was to be given after the races on Sept. 27, 1770.[180] In his next advertisement Gualdo gives a list of the instruments to be used in his next concert, as follows: violins, German flutes, French horns, clarinet, harpischord, and mandolin.[181] In 1771 Gualdo gave his last concert. This same year is important as it brings to our notice a German, Philip Roth, who was, perhaps, the first German composer of secular music in Philadelphia. This first piece was composed for the following concert:
“By Permission and particular Desire,
For the Benefit of Mr. John McLean (Instructor of the German Flute). Will be performed, at the Assembly Room, in Lodge Alley, A Concert of Music, Vocal and Instrumental: To begin precisely at Six o’clock in the Evening. On Thursday the Fifth of December.
The Concert will consist of two Acts, commencing and ending with favourite Overtures, performed by a full Band of Music, with Trumpets, Kettle Drums, and every Instrument that can be introduced with Propriety. The Performance will be interspersed with the most pleasing and select Pieces composed by approved Authors; and a Solo will be played on the German Flute, by John M’Lean, and the whole will conclude with an Overture, composed (for the Occasion) by Philip Roth, Master of the Band, belonging to his Majesty’s Royal Regiment of North British Fusileers, etc.”[182]
From this advertisement it will be seen that there must have been an orchestra or band of some importance at this time, and it is quite probable that the British regiments which at various times were stationed in Philadelphia, were important factors in extending the love of music, by means of concerts which the regimental bands must have given.
In 1772 a concert program of little interest was given at the State-house,[183] and in 1774 one by Sigr. Sodi.[184] In a previous chapter was mentioned H. B. Victor, and the concert he intended to give.[185]
The War of the Revolution soon dawned, and with it matters of a serious nature engaged the minds of the people, although occasionally a ball was given, and perhaps regimental concerts. The play houses, which for over ten years, had been an important feature, and had been well patronized by Philadelphians, were closed in 1778 by Act of Congress, but, nevertheless, there was given occasionally a farce or concert.[186] Still music and drama were almost at a standstill during the war.
FOOTNOTES:
[143] Pa. Gaz., Jun. 26, 1755.
[144] Pa. Mag. of Hist., Vol. XVII, p. 273.