THIS took place in Haberdashers’ Hall, on Thursday, July 4, when the Gresham Prize Medal, for the best composition in sacred vocal music, was presented to Mr. K. J. Pye, whose successful work is an Anthem for five voices, ‘Turn thee again, O Lord!’ This was sung before a respectable company assembled on the occasion, among whom were Lord Burghersh, Sir John Rogers, Bart., Sir Robert Fitzwygram, Bart., Alderman Copeland, M.P., &c., who acted as directors. A small band, led by Sig. Spagnoletti, was engaged, and the following appropriate compositions were performed after the anthem:—
‘Blest are the departed’
SPOHR.
‘His body is buried in peace’
HANDEL.
Selection from the Requiem
MOZART.
Then, after a short interval, the subjoined pieces were sung by a professional party who attended for the purpose, Mr. Novello officiating as conductor:—
Madrigal, ‘Now is the Month of Maying’
MORLEY.