Minutes from the Old Days 

1861

Adelaide 8th January 1861

Mr. Linger informed the Liedertafel that he has found an article in the newspaper that the songwriter K. F. Zöllner has died suddenly in Leipzig, and that a committee was formed which asked all Liedertafels [world-wide] to prepare a concert in his honour and send the proceeds to the bereaved. This was discussed and accepted by the members with the aim to send the money to the committee in Leipzig.

A committee was formed by ballot and the following members were elected: Mr. Schierenbeck, Armbrüster and Ziegler. They will make some proposals next Tuesday, as how the concert will prepared.

Present were 17 members.
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Adelaide 15th January 1861

After choir practice the committee reported with regards to the special concert the following:

1. Mr. Schrader and Heidecker gave their cooperation to be a part of the programme (these men, members of the ALT, were also members of a brass band called the Braunschweiger Music Corps - aka the Brunswick Brass Band of which Carl Linger was the musical director).
2. Mr. van de Heyde will sing a solo accompanied by Mr. Kuntze.
3. Mr. Schlichting will give his hall free of charge to the Liedertafel, at the Hotel Europe. [However,] he can only supply chairs for 100 people and the Liedertafel will have to supply the rest.

4. Mr. Todt is willing to deliver the extra chairs for 2s.6d. per dozen.

It was decided to stage the concert within the next 4 weeks.

Mr. Schrader needs to be informed over the set date at least one week in advance, in case there are problems with the day and another date needs to be announced.

One other venue was suggested and it had to be decided by vote, since not all members were in agreement. The hall at the Hotel Europe was finally selected. Further it was agreed to print tickets and issue them next Tuesday to all singers.

The price at 2s.6d. was accepted and the committee authorised to order the chairs.

For the concert the song “das ABC“ by Zöllner was selected and had to be practiced forthwith.

Present were 18 members.
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Adelaide 29th January 1861

Before the concert commences Mr. Treuer will read a short biography from K. F. Zöllner. This was unanimously accepted by the committee. Furthermore, it was decided that an announcement over three days be put in to the “German Paper“ commencing next Monday – Wednesday.

The committee requested from the theatre some blocks [to form a] stage for the choir. [Also,] two men will be needed to check tickets at the door. Mr. Armbrüster will bring one gentleman and the other will be organised by the committee.

Because of the concert the next practice has been brought forward to Monday.

Present were 17 members.
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Adelaide 4th February 1861

A special meeting was called for next Friday.

Present were 17 members.
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Adelaide 7th February 1861

The concert yesterday was a big success for all participants. About 300 people in the auditorium made the participants realise they had to be at their best.

Mr. Treuer gave an explanatory run down about the reason for the concert and afterwards some information about the life and activities of K. F. Zöllner. This was followed by an overture played by the Music Corps. Then the Liedertafel sang “Es ist bestimmt“ and followed by an duet sung by Mr. Schrader and Mr. Heidecke from "Wilhelm Tell" accompanied by a trumpet. After this Mr. Schierenbeck presented a solo by Weid: “Wie schön bist du“ (How Lovely You Are) and the Liedertafel sang: “Deutsche Vaterland“ (German Fatherland). A duet for cornet and clarinet followed with a piece from “Nebacadnezac“ played by Mr. Schrader and Th. Heidecke. The final piece was from K.F. Zöllner, das ABC (the ABC).

The second bracket also began with an overture - from “Tankred“, followed by a solo sang by Mr. van de Heyde and the Liedertafel finished with “Das Wandern.“ After this the Music Corps played “Morgengrüsse“ (Morning Greeting) by Stöpler. The Liedertafel sang the song “Der Alte“ (the Old One) and then [there was a duet comprising] Mr. Th. van de Heyde and Schierenbeck who sang a song by Wendt: “Heimliche Ehe“ (Secret Marriage) of Cimarosa.

The Liedertafel performed the final song “Speisezettel“ (the Menu). All performances were much applauded and many encores followed.

The Liedertafel and other acquaintances celebrated after the concert till long after 2am in the morning. They drank courageously (???) and gave more performances for their own amusement as the night progressed.
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Adelaide 8th February 1861

Mr. Schierenbeck issued the statement about the expenditure and income from the concert as follows:

It was decided to send a bill of exchange for the amount of ₤30 to the committee in Leipzig. The Liedertafel will make up the [shortfall] and Mr. Ziegler will send it off.

The undersigned brought the song "Über allen Wipfeln ist Ruh’" for the Liedertafel to practice.

Present were 18 members.
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Adelaide 12th February 1861

Mr. Eitzen proposed the song: “Der feine Heinrich“ (the Bonny Heinrich) which was accepted and Mr. Braun was asked to write it in to the song books.

Mr. Ziegler read an accompanying letter to the committee in Leipzig, which ended up in a discussion because some wording was not suitable. Some participants were named but not even present. This has to be changed. All participants have to be mentioned in this letter. With regard to this letter it must be sent off, but a [copy?] from the “Adelaide Deutsche Zeitung“ (an Adelaide German newspaper) has to be sent as well. This was accepted by all.

Then Mr. Leschen, seconded by the undersigned, proposed that a settlement of the account should accommodate this letter also. Further Mr. Armbrüster asked that the article from the German paper will be included in this letter.

After a vote it was unanimously accepted.

Present were 18 members.
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Adelaide 19th February 1861

As a consequence of a complaint being received from members not being named in [the Leipzig] letter, a special meeting was arranged for tomorrow, to deal with this matter.

Present were 17 members.
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Adelaide 20th February 1861

Present were only 7 members, but the application was debated and the following proposal made by Mr. Braun, seconded by Mr. Leschen. An amendment to the letter shall read:

“With the kind and willing cooperation of the local Braunschweiger Music Corps and some other amateurs.“

This proposal was accepted and the matter put to rest.
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Adelaide 26th February 1861

Present were 18 members, but nothing to record.
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Adelaide 5th March 1861

Mr. Maraun, seconded by Mr. Schierenbeck, proposed the song: “Ich geh’ des Abends“ (I Walk in the Evening) and was accepted by all present.

Mr. Braun will write it in to the song books.

Present were 18 members.
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Adelaide 12th March 1861

Present were 12 members, but nothing to record.
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Adelaide 19th March 1861 

Mr. van de Heyde handed in an invitation from the “Schützengesellschaft“ (Shooting Society) for their annual “Kings shooting“ on the second Easter day at Glen Osmond.

The bus will depart from the Hamburg Hotel and the cost for a return fare will be 2s. per person.

Present were 18 members.
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Adelaide 26th March 1861

Choir practice could not be held because the rooms were otherwise booked out. But several members still attended, to listen to professor Kohler's presentation.

After the presentation the members went in to next room, where Mr. Ziegler told them that the Messrs Kuntze, Norman and Köhler came to him to ask if the Liedertafel would be prepared to sing two songs at a concert. The songs were to be "Stabat Mater" from Kosina, as well as some items from Händels "Messiah" and Hayden’s "Creation". It was put to a vote and unanimously accepted.

Mr. Linger had to be informed about the songs, that he shall accompany them and that he had to be there at 7pm at the day of the concert. We shall select the songs for the Liedertafel.
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Adelaide 28th March 1861

The following songs were selected: “Das ist der Tag des Herrn‘" and “Es ist bestimmt“.

Mr. Linger was in agreement with the committee.

It was a full house and the songs were well received by the audience.

Mr. Schierenbeck could not be part of the concert, because of work commitments.
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Adelaide 2nd April 1861

The following songs were proposed: “Integer vitae“ and “Vieler Trug betört das Leben“. Mr. Schierenbeck and Mr. Maraun were seconders. Both songs were accepted.
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Adelaide 9th April 1861

Mr. Nose invited all Lodge brothers from the Princess Royal Lodge for a get together at the Lodge, because it has been over 3 months since their last meeting.

Present were 17 members.
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Adelaide 16th April 1861 

Mr. Balck was proposed by Mr. Ziegler for membership and seconded by Mr. Maraun. Likewise Mr. Schierenbeck, seconded by Mr. Schlater, nominated Mr. Kindermann to become a member of the Liedertafel. They would fit in to the first and second Bass respectively.

A meeting was arranged for Thursday 18th April at 8pm for the election of a committee, to organise the next entertainment evening and other matters.

Present were 15 members.
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Adelaide 18th April 1861 Generalversammlung (General Meeting)

Mr. Braun read the account for the last half year till the end of March as follows :

The account was accepted by all as well as the minutes and both were signed by the chairman.

Then Mr. Braun read the [proposed] constitution, all paragraphs were discussed and the following decisions were made:

1. Membership has to be paid monthly.
   
2. In the event that the Liedertafel folds a decision has to be made who will manage the inventory. The undersigned will contact Mr Ziegler and Mr Schierenbeck to explain the situation.
   
3. The treasurer shall notify all members 1 week prior to a general meeting.

Mr. Braun was asked to write the changes and submit a copy to the members at the next practice.

An entertainment evening was the next item on the agenda and was proposed to be at the end of May or beginning of June.

After this the following committee was elected:

Mr. Schierenbeck 8 votes
Mr. Mühr 8 votes
Mr. Maraun 7 votes
Mr. Ziegler 6 votes
Mr. Eitzen 6 votes

All nominees accepted their nominations and the meeting came to its conclusion.

Present were 12 members.
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Adelaide 23rd April 1861

The proposal for membership of Mr. Balck and Kindermann was accepted and the nominees had the honour to tell both.

At the present the Liedertafel has the following members, including the two new ones:

After rehearsal the resolution of the committee for the forthcoming entertainment evening was read to the singers as follows:

1. The festival will be held on the 27th May 1861
2. Each member will receive 5 tickets to sell
3. Schrader’s Music Corps will participate
4. Tickets not sold have to be back to the committee by Friday at the latest
5. The price will remain at 2s.6d per ticket
6. Members who are going to participate have to tell the committee 14 days in advance

7. The following songs have been selected:

1. Nacht, o Nacht (Night, O Night)
2. the ABC
3. Wirth, noch einen Schoppen Wein (Innkeeper, One More Half Pint)
4. Alles was die Erd’ enthält (Everything the Earth Can Hold)
5. Der feine Wilhelm (the Bonny Wilhelm)

Mr. Armbrüster proposed an evening meal, seconded by Mr. Eitzen. Mr. Ziegler, seconded by Mr. Kindermann, proposed a cold dinner with cooked potatoes for the price of 3s. per serve. This was accepted by the committee and Mr. Armbrüster was asked to look in to this matter and to discuss with Mr. Wedemeyer if he can deliver this.

After this Mr. Braun read the changed constitution, for which Mr.Armbrüster thanked him in the name of the Liedertafel.

The paragraph with regard to the folding of the Liedertafel was postponed to the next AGM and the wording from Mr. Braun, for this paragraph, was accepted for the time being.

Mr. Mühr noted that in the constitution one paragraph was missing. This paragraph should give some precise information over the acceptance of new members. In the recent past new people had their applications denied for the only reason that [their voices were not suitable] (meaning for example that if the applicant was a first tenor and there was already a surfeit of first tenors his application would be refused). Deliberation over this matter was postponed to the next AGM.

Finally the committee had the permission from all members to pay small expenses out of the choirs cashbox.

Present were 18 members.
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Adelaide 30th April 1861

The following members formed a quartet for the next entertainment evening: Mr. Reinhardt, Maraun, Mühr and Schierenbeck. They will perform the song “Die Nacht“ (the Night) by Franz Schubert.

Mr. Wedemeyer will provide the evening meal for the cost of 3s. per person, but he needs to know the exact number of guests for the dinner in advance so he can prepare everything. The committee promised to give him the answer on Friday before the event. All singers will have to ask the guests they are selling tickets to if they want to be involved in the evening meal in order to get an accurate count.

Mr. Armbrüster moved that later in the night coffee and cake will be served, but Mr. Ziegler thought it would be good enough to serve only coffee since the people [would have] just had a meal. This proposal was accepted. Also Mr. Ziegler proposed that Mr. Wedemeyer provide the coffee and to put his account after the festivities in to the committee.

Mr. Ziegler also came forward with an idea, he would be preparing a joke at the end of the programme but is in need of some members to participate. His joke is called Waxfigurenkabinett (the Wax Works). This was cheerfully accepted by all and promised to be one of the highlights for the evening. Further Mr. Ziegler stated that he can hire the costumes cheaply for only ₤ 2. from Schirmer's.

Present were 19 members.
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Adelaide 7th May 1861

Mr. Ziegler reported that he will need 10 people for support and they are messrs Eitzen, Meier, Maraun, Braun, Mäth, Bielefeldt, Mühr, Armbrüster and Balck. A dress rehearsal was fixed for next Sunday at 10 am.

Present were 19 members.
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Adelaide 14th May 1861

Mr. Kindermann has not attended even one practice up till now and will forthwith not be a member of the Liedertafel. The undersigned will send him a letter and advise him of the committee’s decision.

Mr. Ziegler explained his sketch to all present and earned much applause. An extra rehearsal was set for next Sunday.

Present were 17 members.

Following is the letter that was sent to Herr Kindermann:

Mr. Kindermann.

Dear Sir!

I am authorized to inform you that the Liedertafel has noticed, with deep regret, your total absence from our choir practices. We believe that your business has kept you away and will do so in future.

Therefore the Liedertafel has decided to release you from all your obligations.

Consequently, I have done my duty to inform you and sign off. 

Yours sincerely 

Th. Niehuus

15th May 1861

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Adelaide 21st May 1861

Six tickets for the entertainment evening were issued to all singers.

Mr. Linger is one evening rehearsal behind and the committee decided to have an extra practice next Friday. This practice and all thereafter till the entertainment evening shall start at 8 pm.

Present were 18 members.
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Adelaide 24th May 1861

Choir practice could not be held because the song books were missing. Therefore a new practice was set at short notice after the decorating of the hall, on Sunday.

Present were 16 members.
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Adelaide 28th May 1861

Last night's festival was a big success for all participants.

The programme was: 

1. Overture to “Braun by Prestum“
2. Choir “Nachtgesang“ (Night Hymn)
3. Choir “Alles was die Erd’ enthält (Everything the Earth Can Hold)
4. Quartet “Die Nacht" (the Night)
5. Choir The ABC

Interval

6. Overture from the “Kalife von Bagdhad"
7. Choir “Abendfeier" (Evening Celebration)
8. Solo by Mr. Schierenbeck  “Die Grenadiere“ (the Grenadier)
9. Fantasy for Clarinet & Cornet by Mr. Heidecke and Mr. Schrader
10. Choir “Seeligkeit“  (Ecstasy)
11. Choir “Der feine Wilhelm“ (the Bonny Wilhelm)

12. Comedy Sketch “Das Waxfigurenkabinett“ (the Wax Works)

This item was warmly applauded by the audience.

After this the audience went in to the next room while the singers dismantled the stage.

Then followed the dinner, but it was not long before everyone was eager to get on the dance floor. The dancing started at 1am and lasted till the early morning at 5.30am.

Because of the festivities last night there was no choir practice today. But all members were invited by Mr. Wedemeyer for a special treat - an evening meal with drinks that ended very cheerfully for all present.

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Adelaide 4th June 1861

The following songs were proposed:

1. “Des Morgens wenn die Hähne krähen“ (In the morning when the cockerels are crowing) by the undersignd and seconded by Mr. Ziegler.

2. “Beglückte Mutter, stille…“ (beloved mother, quiet…) by Mr. Armbrüster seconded by Mr. Eitzen. Both songs were accepted and Mr. Braun once more [was asked to] write them in to the song books.

It [has been deemed] necessary to have an inventory [of choir property] which Mr. Maraun, Armbrüster, Braun and Schlüter [will conduct].

Present were 16 members.
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Adelaide 11th June 1861

The committee [that conducted] the inventory gave its report. Everything is in order and the matter accepted and put to rest.

The jubilee celebrations were set for the 1^st July 1861 and after a lengthy deliberation the following proposals were accepted:

1. The festivities will start with an evening dinner, but only men are permitted.

2. The cost for the delivery of a cold meal will be 3s.6d.

3. Starting time for the dinner will be 8.30pm.

4. Each member is permitted to invite friends, but must register them at the last practice night before the festivity. Also it was decided not to engage any music from outside. Mr. Ziegler instead proposed to invite the gentlemen Mr. Th. van de Heyde, Mr. Schrader and Mr. White as friends of the Liedertafel to perform at this occasion, otherwise there would be a gap in the entertainment. Furthermore it was decided to pay for them out of the Liedertafel cash box. This was also seconded by Mr. Armbrüster and accepted by the members. Mr. Ziegler and Mr. Balck were then asked to speak to those people concerned.

 Present were 16 members.
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Adelaide 18th June 1861

Mr. Bartels has not attended choir practice for some time and without any explanation. The committee has [therefore] decided that he will no longer be a member of the Liedertafel and Mr. Braun shall write to him and explain the decision. He also shall ask him to settle the outstanding membership [fee].

Mr. Ziegler seconded by Mr. Eitzen proposed Mr. Niebuhr to be accepted as a member of the Liedertafel. He would be a 1st bass. However, in the past it was decided that no one will be taken on in the middle voices until the 1st tenor section was strong enough, [in order] to maintain a good balance within the choir. For this reason, Mr. Braun has changed from the 1st bass section into the 2nd tenors [and] Mr. Kindermann became a member of the 1st bass section. Therefore Mr. Eitzen has to contact Mr. Niebuhr, explain the situation and tell him that he will be on the waiting list (Presumably because he couldn't be fitted into the 1st basses).

This highlights a bit of a puzzle about Herr Kindermann because nowhere is it explained how this man is suddenly back in the choir after receiving his marching orders on 14th May. Herr Kindermann's photo also appears in a 1880 montage of the choir which today hangs in the SAADV's Carl Linger room where the ALT conducts its practices. When he received his dismissal letter he may have returned to practices, was re-admitted and satisfactorily attended practices after that - but there is no record of this. Herr Kindermann is mentioned a few more times after this, so it seems he became a valued member of the choir.

Present were 16 members.
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Adelaide 25th June 1861

Mr. Armbrüster, Mr. Meier and Mr. Eitzen proposed Mr. Edmunds and Mr. Emil Mumme as new members. Both will be singing in the 1st and 2nd tenors respectively.

Mr. Ziegler reported that Mr. Schrader and Mr. Heydecke accepted their invitation for the jubilee evening with delight.

Mr. Schierenbeck proposed that the following gentlemen be invited for the celebration festivities: Mr. Treuer, Mr. van de Heyde, Dr. Lacroix and Mr. Bungert.

He also requested that all members advise their invitees by Friday evening, so that he can give Mr. Wedemeyer an exact number of people for the dinner.

Mr. Eitzen proposed the song “Seid gegrüßt, meine Lieder“ (be greeted, my songs) which was accepted by all and seconded by Mr. Armbrüster.

Mr. Braun will write the song in to the books and gave the members a reminder, that next Tuesday will be a regular general meeting.

Present were 17 members.
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Adelaide 2nd July 1861

The Jubilee celebrations turned out to be a big hit for all present. An unforgettable evening with friends and members together, as well as the evening dinner prepared by Mr. Wedemeyer.

After the meal the Liedertafel and the man’s quartet entertained with some well prepared songs. Then followed Mr. Schierenbeck and Mr. van de Heyde, supported by Mr. Kuntze with a solo recital, which was very well accepted by all.

This was followed by the General Meeting.

The chair person was Mr. Schierenbeck.

The financial report was read as follows:

There is only the amount off 10s outstanding, from the last entertainment evening.

Next item on the agenda was the vote on Mr. Edmunds and Mr. Mumme to become members of the Liedertafel. Both were unanimously accepted.

This was followed by the reading of the constitution and the following amendments:

1. Mr. Niehuus proposed, seconded by Mr. Armbrüster that any member who is 3 months behind with his membership payment will be reminded and this is then followed by dismissal. This proposal was accepted by all present.

2. With regards to any breakup of the Liedertafel, the following will be added: If the Liedertafel folds [and there is a resurgence], former members can join again, provided they [led exemplary lives] in the public eye during the time there was no Liedertafel. This was proposed by Mr. Mührig, seconded by Mr. Balck and accepted by all.

3. On an application by Mr. Armbrüster and seconded by Mr. Balck the constitution was expanded by [the addition of] a new paragraph as follows: A member can, upon a request of an other member, be dismissed when two thirds of all present members are agreeable.

4. Mr. Braun proposed, seconded by Mr. Schlüter another extension to the constitution: A member, who is 4 weeks behind with payments for a concert or entertainment tickets will not be permitted to attend further choir practice until such time that he has finalised the payments. All member accepted this proposal forthwith.

Finally, upon application by Mr. Maraun and seconded by Mr. Eitzen, it was agreed that the Liedertafel shall have power to dismiss members from the choir if their behaviour is interruptive during practice, and a membership application can be denied if one is convinced that this new member will act in the same manner.

The [amended constitution] was then read in its entirety and unanimously accepted.

Mr. Balck thanked all members and in particular the committee for their efforts. The meeting was then closed.

Present were 13 members.
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Adelaide 9th July 1861

Important and grave business had to be discussed and accordingly Mr. Schierenbeck was selected as chairman after practice.

Mr. Armbrüster read a letter, which had been to him by Mr. Braun.

At the last General Meeting all officers remained in their positions, but Mr Braun wishes by the end of this month that someone else takes over the position as treasurer. Mr. Armbrüster proposed, seconded by Mr. Schlüter, that they have to elect immediately a new treasurer. The proposal was accepted and a ballot conducted. Mr. Schierenbeck was proposed and elected unanimously.

His first request was that the Liedertafel purchase a metal box for the storage of all books and belongings. This was approved.

After this a lively but friendly discussion started and ended with a funny serenade by Mr. Gerke, which was well received by all.

After this Mr. Schlüter proposed, seconded by Mr. Bielefeldt, the song ”Held Friedrich“ (Hero Friedrich) which was accepted and must now be written in to the song books.

Present were 17 members.
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Adelaide 16th July 1861

A letter was received from the Zöllner committee in Leipzig and read out to the members. Mr. Zöllner's widow thanked all participants in the concert given in honour of her late husband and the generous donation. The committee decided that this letter shall be published in the German paper before it was filed away.

Next on the agenda was a referendum held for Mr. Niebuhr to become a member of the Liedertafel. He was accepted and joined the 1st bass.

The treasurer was asked to attend to and pay the invoice for the amount of 19s for the last Jubilee, handed in by Mr. Wedemeyer.

Present were 16 members.
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Adelaide 23rd July 1861

Mr. Linger was absent due to ill health, no choir practice.

Present were 16 members.
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Adelaide 30th July 1861

Mr. Schierenbeck requested that members decide whether persons can rejoin the Liedertafel when they had resigned their membership in writing some time ago. [It was decided that] they have to be examined again by the conductor and [be subject to a] ballot if they can became members of the choir once more.

Present were 18 members.
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Adelaide 6th August 1861

Since Mr. Linger was still absent due to ill health, it was the wish of the members to engage a music teacher to learn the new songs for the forthcoming entertainment evening, and that Mr. Linger be informed about this decision. Also Mr. Armbrüster proposed that one singer will go and visit Mr. Linger and see how he is progressing. If he is not well enough to conduct the choir on Tuesday, he [Armbrüster] then has to organise a replacement.

This proposal was accepted by all. Mr. Schierenbeck was elected to visit Mr. Linger and he accepted. After this Mr. Kuntze was asked if he can help out in the meantime and if he was unable to do so, would Mr. Schrader take up the honour [as acting conductor].

Mr. Ziegler suggested Monday the 23^rd as the day for the evening entertainment.

A ballot was conducted for 5 committee members, as follows:

Mr. Mühr declined his nomination. Mr. Edmunds and Mr. Mumme were both accepted as a fifth member and all others accepted the ballot.

Present were 17 members.
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Adelaide 13th August 1861

Mr. Linger was not well enough to conduct the choir and Mr. Kuntze was willing to take over, but under the same conditions.

The discussion over the entertainment evening was postponed till next Tuesday.

Mr. Reinhardt participated at the choir practice.

Mr. Braun handed all paper, invoices and cash books over to the new treasurer, Mr. Schierenbeck, on 30^th July 1861. Also a cash amount of ₤ 6. 8.

Present were 18 members.
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This concludes the minute book which was copied from the original held by the Lutheran Church. Fired with enthusiasm, Manfred Grafton went hunting and discovered the next minute book in our own archives! This will also be translated and published in these pages.

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The following was found in the back of the first minute book:

Register of gentlemen introduced to the Liedertafel as singers by the following members:

Mr. Gerke introduced by Mr. Schierenbeck
Mr. Kuntze introduced by dto.
Mr. Balck introduced by dto.
Mr. Treuer introduced by dto.
Mr. Buttler introduced by dto.
Mr. Löllmann introduced by dto
Mr. van de Heyde introduced by dto.
Mr. C. Leschen introduced by Mr. A. Leschen

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The second minute book starts ...

Adelaide 20th August 1861 - General Meeting

Mr. Schierenbeck was selected as chairman, accepted the nomination and opened the meeting.

He read the following completed resolution for the entertainment evening, that were accepted by all at the last meeting.  

1. The next entertainment evening was set for the 23rd September 1861 at the Hamburg Hotel.
2. The following songs were selected: Tiroler Heimweh, Seid gegrüßt, Vieler Trug betöhrt das Leben, Gestorben, Held Friedrich, Droben steht die Kapelle and In einem kühlen Grunde (sung as double quartet) .
3. Mr. Eitzen, seconded by Mr. Leschen, moved that the evening meal should be omitted. This motion was rejected. The majority went along with the committee to have a meal for the cost of 3s.6d.
4. The musician shall eat with the audience and for those people that won’t be eating, a piano player will be engaged to play some background music, but the fee shall not exceed. 10s.
5. Mr. Wöhlike will be taken the tickets on for the pay as usual. ( 7s.6d. ) ????
6. The “Braunschweiger Music Corps“ will be playing for a fee of ₤6.-
7. At approximately midnight the meal will be served and at 2am coffee and cake.
8. The evening programme will start at precisely 8pm.
9. Any member who wishes to participate with a solo performance has to notify the committee of their intention at least 14 days in advance.
10. Each member will receive 6 tickets at 2s.6d. to sell.
11. Also each member is responsible for the tickets sold and for their guests.
12. All unsold tickets have to be handed back to Mr. Schierenbeck, by Tuesday before the performance at the latest.
13. On Friday after the performance a meeting will be held to settle all accounts and monies from the ticket sale.

Mr. Wedemeyer is prepared to issue 6 tickets each to the members for the evening meal, providing enough people are interested . Any tickets not sold have to be handed back latest on Thursday to himself or Mr. Schierenbeck. This outcome will determine, whether the evening meal will go ahead or not.

The price for coffee will be worked out by the amount of cups sold.

Mr. Balck, seconded by Mr. Leschen proposed that one committee member shall be in charge of the drinks for the musician, and that the amount not exceed ₤1.10s. This proposal was unanimously accepted.

Mr. Ziegler presented the committee with two propositions, as for the ending of the concert.

The first one has the title “Walpurgisnacht”, (great romantic opera in two acts and the second shall be titled “Gesänge aller Nationen“ (songs of all nations). After a lengthy discussion the members decided on the first title because it seems to have more effect. Mr. Balck will take charge of writing the parts, while Mr. Ziegler promised to deliver the sketch by next Tuesday.

Present were 19 members.
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Adelaide 27th August 1861

Mr. Reinhard was auditioned and accepted into the 1st Tenor section.

Present were 20 members.
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Adelaide 3rd September 1861

Mr. Reinhardt was accepted as a new member of the Liedertafel.

Mr. Schierenbeck read a letter, received from Mr. Hansen. The content was unclear. He wrote that he will no longer be a member of the Liedertafel, to avoid any more confutations and confusion. The six tickets will be sent back. The undersigned (minutes Secretary Th Niehuus) has been authorised by the chairman to ask Mr. Hansen, in writing, for an detailed explanation of his offensive letter.

After this matter was put aside Mr. Ziegler read his sketch for the next entertainment evening, which received much approval from all members.

A heated discussion developed over the issue of tickets for the evening meal. To stop this in its tracks Mr. Ziegler proposed that no tickets be issued, but that the committee has to know by Tuesday at the latest how many guests will be seated at the evening meal. This was accepted by all.

Present were 20 members.
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Adelaide 10th September 1861

Mr. Schierenbeck withdrew his proposal for Mr. Lacroix to become a member of the Liedertafel, which was accepted by the committee.

He also read the reply from Mr. Hansen. In one of the previous meetings a remark was made that member who can’t speak, not come at all. This was debated and it was decided that Mr. Hansen had taken it the wrong way and undersigned be authorised to write a letter of explanation.

The real wording was, only guests which are prepared to contribute to the entertainment shall be permitted.

Mr. Schierenbeck reported that Mr. Linger, who has taken up the conductorship again, discovered that when he checked his invoice, Mr. Kuntze had not asked for any payment for the time he has filled in for him. Mr. Linger therefore requested from that the committee that he (Mr. Linger) pay Mr. Kuntze some small allowance, which the committee declined. Instead, Mr. Kuntze shall be invited for the entertainment evening and the committee will formally thank him (Mr. Kuntze) for his efforts and dedication towards the Liedertafel.

Present were 19 members.
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Adelaide 17th September 1861

The 6 tickets from Mr. Hansen were redistributed among the members.

Present were 20 members.
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Adelaide 24th September 1861

The evening entertainment was very well attended, and the programme was a big success.

1. Overture, played by Schrader’s Music Corps.
2. Song: “Seid gegrüßt“ by our Liedertafel.
3. A clarinet solo by Mr. Heidecker.
4. “Die Kapelle“ sung by a Liedertafel quartet.
5. Solo song by Mr. Schierenbeck: “Land meiner seligsten Gefühle“.
6. Choir: “Lebensglück“.
7. Mr. Ziegler with: “Eine sonderbare Geschichte“ (one odd story)
8. The choir with: “Tiroler Heimat“.
9. Cornet solo by Mr. Schrader.
10. A double quartet sang: “Untreue“ (Unfaithfulness)
11. Choir with: “Seliger Tod“ (Blessed death)

The finale was “Walpurgisnacht“ (witches’ sabbath or Halloween) by Mr. Ziegler in two parts, which was received with frantic applause by the audience. The song “Held Friedrich“ was included and sung, but with other words.

After all this the ball commenced and went until 5am in the morning.

For this day the choir practice was cancelled.
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Adelaide 1st October 1861

Mr. Linger was absent due to illness. Mr. Schierenbeck asked the committee if he should withold the payment for Mr. Linger. It was decided to maintain the payment for the time being, and that at the next AGM a final decision will be made.

The next meeting was set for next Thursday.

Present were 18 members.
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Read and accepted  

Th. Niehuus

 Adelaide 3rd October 1861 Generalversammlung ( general meeting )

Mr. Maraun was elected as chairman, accepted the nomination and opened the meeting.

Then followed the new treasurer's report for the past quarter as follows:

The statement and receipts were found correct and accepted.

Mr. Niehuus then read the minutes which were also accepted as correct and signed by the chairman.

After this the constitution was read and Mr. Ziegler, seconded by Mr. Schierenbeck, proposed the following paragraph to be changed:

The payment for the conductor at each choir practice shall be 10s. which will be paid at the end of each month. This proposal was accepted by all.

Furthermore it was proposed by Mr. Ziegler that quarterly two auditors be selected to assist the treasurer in checking the invoices and statements etc. This was seconded by Mr. Schierenbeck and unanimously accepted.

All other statutes were retained.

Present were 9 members.
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Adelaide 8th October 1861

Mr. Käsehagen, proposed by Mr. Ziegler and seconded by Mr, Maraun, was unanimously accepted to be a new member of the Liedertafel and will be singing in the 1st. Bass.

Mr. Reinhardt moved that during the absence of Mr. Linger another conductor be hired and Mr. Ziegler suggested Mr. Kuntze. But he added that he (Kuntze) shall be paid the same amount as Mr. Linger. If he declines this proposal then Mr. Schrader will be asked.

Mr. Schierenbeck was authorized to contact both men.

After this Mr. Ziegler proposed the song: “Walzer“ by Zöllner, which was seconded by Mr. Armbrüster who also proposed another song: “Seid gegrüßt ihr stolzen Höhen“ seconded by Mr. Eitzen for practice. Both songs were accepted.

Present were 21 members.
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Adelaide 15th October – 12th November 1861

No business was reported during this period.
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17th November 1861

Extraordinary general meeting (Außerordentliche Generalversammlung)

Mr. Ziegler was voted in as chairperson and opened the meeting. He asked the members to speak up if anything came to mind.

This is a special meeting to also clarify any question. Mr. Schierenbeck and Mr. Armbrüster explained to all present the reason they had called this meeting. The [SA] Governor is to be honored with a farewell dinner before his departure from South Australia. The German club has requested  that the Liedertafel send three representatives [and also from] the Schützengesellschaft (Shooting Group) to this special dinner.

Mr. Reinhardt proposed to accept this proposition, seconded by Mr. Eitzen. The chairman remarked that the Liedertafel can’t accept until further information from the German club committee is received. A member [of the Liedertafel who is also a member] of the German club was selected and gave a brief description to the Liedertafel members in respect to this occasion. Next Wednesday there will be a meeting in the German club to which the three delegates of the Liedertafel and Schützengesellschaft are invited.

The proposal from Mr. Reinhardt was then unanimously accepted. Also the three following songs where voted on and accepted.

1.  Auf ihr Brüder, laßt uns wallen.

2.  Und hörst du das mächtige Klingen.

3.  Beglückte Mutter.

Present were 13 members.        Signed Th. Niehuus

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Adelaide 19th November 1861

After choir practice the three members to attend the dinner function where selected.

1.  Mr. Schierenbeck

2.   Mr. Balck

3.   Mr. Reinhardt

All three accepted their nomination.

Present were 18 members.

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Adelaide 26th November 1861

Mr. Ziegler was nominated as chairperson and accepted the nomination.

After this Mr. Balck read the minutes for the forthcoming torch march and three members were accepted to their committee, so that the Liedertafel now can exclusively concentrate on their singing.

Further Mr. Schierenbeck proposed to authorize Mr. Käsehagen to organize a sample lantern for the torch march, so that one for each member can be purchased. They shall be paid by the Liedertafel. Mr. Schlüter seconded this proposal and it was accepted.

Then was the celebration for New Year’s Eve on the agenda. Mr. Mäth proposed and Mr. Reinhardt seconded having the celebration again at Mr. Weidenbach’s in Glen Osmond and all present accepted. Mr. Schierenbeck then proposed, seconded by Mr. Braun, the following three members as the celebration committee. All accepted.

1. Mr. Ziegler  12 votes

2. Mr. Maraun  10 votes

3. Mr. Reinhardt  6 votes

Present were 17 members.

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Adelaide 17th December 1861

Under the chair of Mr. Ziegler, the conductor asked the members when the Liedertafel will have their next practice. The Tuesday before the Christmas as well as the New Year’s celebration was mentioned, but the decision was instead for the 27th of December and to forget the two Tuesdays.

Then a discussion over the torch march came up and Mr. Käsehagen proposed, seconded by Mr. Niehuus, that the Liedertafel on Monday 23rd December assemble at Mr. Wedemeyer’s and march from there together to the Hotel Europe, the meeting place.

The chairman expresses the wish, providing enough torches are available, that the Liedertafel  split into three sections – at the front of the march, the middle and at the end. The singers accepted his wish.

Then Mr. Schierenbeck read a letter received from the German club to the committee, an invitation to attend their annual Picnic on Christmas day. The chairman reminded the singers that if they wanted to participate as a group [i.e. the ALT] enough members have to be present. A vote was taken but only 8 members were prepared to participate. Therefore it was the decision not to participate as a group and the undersigned will notify the club of the Liedertafel’s decision.

Furthermore the chairman reported that Mr. Weidenbach is very honored to host the Liedertafel and their guests in his establishment for the new years’ eve party. The trip back and forth to Mr. Weidenbach’s will start at 8pm and return at 1am. The cost would be 1s.6d. per person and will be paid out of the Liedertafel cash box, for members and their friends. This is the committee’s decision. For the trip the committee will issue tickets to each member and their friends, and shall be picked up latest on 27th December. This proposal was unanimously accepted.

The chairman of the German club told the Liedertafel chairman that they will have a second bus again for the singers, but the Liedertafel chairman declined since each member, who is participating in the Christmas picnic, will pay for himself and partner to get there. Also the club chairman was told that the Liedertafel will not participate as a group.  

Present were 19 members.

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Adelaide 27th December 1861

The chairperson, Mr. Schierenbeck has set the next General Meeting for Friday 3rd January 1862 and urged all members to be present.

Mr. Armbrüster reported that the bus for the (now) 17 people attending the picnic will cost £4 and 5s from this will go to the driver.

Present were 19 members.