Music—Its Role, Qualities, and Influence

Chapter 7—Secular Music

Qualities of Acceptable Secular Music

For about an hour the fog did not lift and the sun did not penetrate it. Then the musicians [on the ship] who were to leave the boat at this place entertained the impatient passengers with music, well selected and well rendered. It did not jar upon the senses as the previous evening, but was soft and really grateful to the senses because it was musical.—Letter 6b, 1893, pp. 2, 3. (Written of the landing in New Zealand in February 1893.) MRQI 22.1

Beautiful Instrumental Music at the Swiss Beer Garden

The same night there was beautiful music and fireworks close by across the road. There is an extensive beer garden owned by the city and carried on by the city. This garden is made attractive with flowers and shrubs and noble trees, giving a nice shade. There are seats that will accommodate hundreds, and little oval tables are adjusted before these seats and this most beautiful instrumental music is played by the band.—Manuscript 33, 1886. MRQI 22.2

An Indescribable Concert

We are having an indescribable concert. Nine are singing, -Dutch or German or French, I cannot tell which. The voices are just splendid, quite entertaining. I think it is a Sunday-school excursion company.—Letter 8, 1876. MRQI 22.3