Abstract

Paris and Music

Among the multitudinous good works to which the needs of the First World War have given birth, one of the most curious is the "Aide Morale" in Paris, France. The moral aid, which is given, is an hour or two of free entertainment for the people on Sundays. It is intended to cheer and encourage, as well as to inform; and it is given at the mairies of the populous quarters. There, indeed, the civil life of the people centers, their marriages and registration of births and deaths and all the rest. First, there is a little talk, usually by some one who is somebody, to keep up faith in the outcome of the war. Then there is a concert, with recitals, also by somebody; and one who acts as the chairman did in the old-time music halls of London, England explains each number to these listeners, unused to theatrical art.