MMU Newsletter 41

9
Issue 41 - June 2013 Welcome to this edition of the MMU newsletter. It was good to catch up with many people at our Gospel Arts Concert and Music Leaders Councils. Special thanks go to the USA Western Territory Songsters (Songster Leader Neil Smith) for their contribution to the weekend and all they did in their successful week touring the UK. At councils our Territorial Commander, Commissioner Clive Adams, encouraged us all on the Sunday morning and thanked all music leaders for their commitment and work within their local corps. He also challenged us all to do more through our music-making, both artistically and spiritually. The contributions of our own staff sections were as always greatly appreciated, as were the contributions from our guests from USA West and Kathryn Ballantine (vocal soloist). It is not too early to mention that next year’s Gospel Arts Concert will take place in Birmingham’s Symphony Hall and the Music Leaders’ Councils the following day in the Adrian Boult Hall, Birmingham (7 - 8 June 2014). Territorial Music School is getting closer and details are in this newsletter regarding venue, concerts etc. I would still encourage leaders to talk to our young people about being part of this unique week and to contact us here at MMU should you require further details. On a recent visit to Atlanta, USA, I was reminded of the unique fellowship we enjoy as musicians within The Salvation Army. It was a real privilege to be part of events in that Territory and some aspects of my visit are in the newsletter. That internationalism will be in evidence too in the next few weeks, as the International Staff Songsters visit Norway for a congress weekend in Oslo and the International Staff Band take part in the Old Orchard Beach meetings in Maine, USA. Whilst in Atlanta, my former ISB colleague Christopher Priest remarked that sharing memories was an important part of Salvation Army life. So maybe the things we do over the coming weeks and months will result in sharing memories and making memories too! I am not a Facebook user, however, the aims of Facebook are to connect and share. Remember that what you post – you own! May we all continue to connect, share and be proud owners of what we say, do and even post. We at MMU will be pleased to hear from you at any time and receive any news items from you. With thanks for all you continue to do! Derick Kane Contents Publishing news The upcoming publicaƟons here at MMU and news from SP&S. Training Review on a new resource; The contemporary guitarist. Events Eater Music Course 2013 write-up and Maidenhead Bands recent tour to Finland and Estonia. Other ISB news and informaƟon for the Territorial Music School Final FesƟval. DEVELOP INNOVATE ENCOURAGE RESOURCE Music Ministries Unit Newsletter JUNE 2013 Music Ministries Unit Issue 41 - June 201 Derick Kane

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Music Ministries Newsletter June 2013

Transcript of MMU Newsletter 41

Page 1: MMU Newsletter 41

Issue 41 - June 2013

Welcometo this edition of the MMU newsletter.

It was good to catch up with many people at our Gospel Arts Concert and Music Leaders Councils. Special thanks go to the USA Western Territory Songsters (Songster Leader Neil Smith) for their contribution to the weekend and all they did in their successful week touring the UK.

At councils our Territorial Commander, Commissioner Clive Adams, encouraged us all on the Sunday morning and thanked all music leaders for their commitment and work within their local corps. He also challenged us all to do more through our music-making, both artistically and spiritually.

The contributions of our own staff sections were as always greatly appreciated, as were the contributions from our guests from USA West and Kathryn Ballantine (vocal soloist).

It is not too early to mention that next year’s Gospel Arts Concert will take place in Birmingham’s Symphony Hall and the Music Leaders’ Councils the following day in the Adrian Boult Hall, Birmingham (7 - 8 June 2014).

Territorial Music School is getting closer and details are in this newsletter regarding venue, concerts etc. I would still encourage leaders to talk to our young people about being part of this unique week and to contact us here at MMU should you require further details.

On a recent visit to Atlanta, USA, I was reminded of the unique fellowship we enjoy as musicians within The Salvation Army. It was a real privilege to be part of events in that Territory and some aspects of my visit are in the newsletter. That internationalism will be in evidence too in the next few weeks, as the International Staff Songsters visit Norway for a congress weekend in Oslo and the International Staff Band take part in the Old Orchard Beach meetings in Maine, USA.

Whilst in Atlanta, my former ISB colleague Christopher Priest remarked that sharing memories was an important part of Salvation Army life. So maybe the things we do over the coming weeks and months will result in sharing memories and making memories too!

I am not a Facebook user, however, the aims of Facebook are to connect and share. Remember that what you post – you own! May we all continue to connect, share and be proud owners of what we say, do and even post.

We at MMU will be pleased to hear from you at any time and receive any news items from you.

With thanks for all you continue to do!

Derick Kane

ContentsPublishing newsThe upcoming publica ons here at MMU and news from SP&S.

TrainingReview on a new resource; The contemporary guitarist.

EventsEater Music Course 2013 write-up and Maidenhead Bands recent tour to Finland and Estonia.

OtherISB news and informa on for the Territorial Music School Final Fes val.

DEVELOPINNOVATE

ENCOURAGERESOURCE

Music Ministries Unit NewsletterJUNE 2013

MusicMinistriesUnit

Issue 41 - June 201

Derick Kane

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March - Moving Onward (Nicholas Samuel)Selection - O for a heart whiter than the snow (Noel Jones)Cornet Solo - In the bleak mid-winter (Trevor Worthington)Invocation for thanksgiving (David Rowsell)High and lifted up (Steven Ponsford)

(Scored for 13 parts, ideal for a smaller band ensemble - 3 issues per year)Triumph Series - July 2013

Unity Series - June 2013(Five-part scoring, concert pitch parts and demonstration CD available - 3 issues per year)

March - I’ll be true (Derick Kane)March Medley - Carol Refl ections (Noel Jones)Carol of the bells (Gordon Elliott)Somebody Prayed (Dean Jones)

I have recently enjoyed many aspects of Salvation Army music-making and the opportunity, once again, to visit various sections. It is a great way to see how musicians are getting on in their various settings.

I have been part of the Easter Music Course, which had Lieut Colonel Trevor Davis as the special guest. We all had another memorable week in our new location of Kings Park, Northampton, and once again were full to capacity. I have also been part of Musicians Weekends at Bedford Congress Hall and Cannock, Southern and West Midlands Youth

Band rehearsals and Café Church at Winton. All events have been well organised and supported with a real feeling of enthusiasm from all involved.

The next few months are signifi cant within our programme, with the various Summer Schools that take place. Territorial Music School numbers are good but I would still encourage you to talk to anyone eligible to attend this week (details are included in this newsletter). We are in a new venue and have the opportunity to share with Staff Bandmaster Ken Waterworth from the Melbourne Staff Band. I am aware of many encouraging activities that have happened over the last few months. Let us remember that as we share whether

big or small in number that we are sure of our purpose, united in our mission and centered on our calling as musicians serving God. We are indeed privileged people – let that privilege not be taken for granted!

Editorial work continues with the end of year publications taking shape – works by established composers such as Andrew Mackereth, Howard Davies, Erik Silfverberg and Ray Steadman-Allen are complemented by new names such as Gavin Whitehouse, Nicholas King and David Rowsell.

Once again if there is any support we can give from within the MMU please do not hesitate to contact us.

From the Assistant Territorial Music Director Andrew Blyth

(W)sps-shop.com (T)+44 (0) 1933 445 445 (E)[email protected] Publications

General Series - August 2013(Full band scoring - 3 issues per year)

Carol Setting - Joy to the world (Norman Bearcroft)Night of joy (Andrew Wainwright)Dedication (Kenneth Downie)Cornet Duet - Synergy (Martin Cordner)

Friends of Christ (Yvonne Field)It’s simply Jesus (Andrew Maycock)Prayer for the King (Isobel Robinson/Ian Robinson)What a Saviour! (Richard Slater/Paul Drury)Everlasting (Janet Martin/John Martin)Let everything that has breath (Rich Gomez arr. Nicholas King)Come to my heart, Lord Jesus (Emily Elizabeth Steele Elliott/Karen Krinjak)

(Songs for SATB choir, demonstration and accompaniment CD available - 3 issues per year)

Sing to the Lord (mixed voice series) Volume 20, part 2 Twelve Scripture-based Songs Volume XIV

Twelve Scripture-based Songsarranged for Brass Band

Volume XIII(Triumph Series)

Faithful One Hide me now (Still)

I know he rescued my soul (My redeemer lives) I will praise you Lord, with all my heart

I will worship (You alone are worthy of my praise)Jesus shall take the highest honour

The candle of the LordThe way it’s gonna be

There is an endless song (How can I keep from singing?)When the spirit of the Lord (Dance like David)

Your grace still amazes me Zephaniah’s Song (I’ve found the pearl)

Published by SP&S, a division of Salvation Army Trading Company Limited, 2012

A God-raised and Spirit-fi lled ArmyBlessèd AssuranceHear the call of the kingdomJoy to the worldLord, you are goodOnce, in royal David’s cityPraise is rising (Hosanna)See amid the winter’s snowSoldier, rouse thee! (Men of Harlech) Water you turned into wine (Our God)Without YouYou are my strength when I am weak

(Scored for Triumph Series, for use within worship and congregations - 1 issue per year)

Unity Series - June 2013(Five-part scoring, concert pitch parts and demonstration CD available - 3 issues per year)

March - I’ll be true (Derick Kane)March Medley - Carol Refl ections (N l J )

Music Ministries Unit NewsletterJUNE 2013

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Creativity and inspiration would sum up my recent trip to Atlanta. Over the fi rst couple of days I had various rehearsals with the Territorial Band (Bandmaster Nick Simmons-Smith) and Songsters (Songster Leader Stephen Burn). Both sections were in preparation for the Rise up & Sing concert of worship and the ordination and commissioning of the Proclaimers of the Resurrection session.

After rehearsing some solos I was privileged to conduct the band, rehearsing the Festival March The Proclaimers (Kevin Norbury) and Daystar (Ray Steadman-Allen). Moving over to the Territorial Songster rehearsal, we looked at two songs, All there is of me (Richard Phillips) and I will praise you (Andrew Blyth). My thanks to both groups for allowing me this time in their busy schedule and for the warmth of their welcome and friendship during my visit. The spirit that both sections gave to all the events whether performing or supporting was excellent.

My next rehearsal stop was with Florida Brass (youth band), with their leader Bandmaster Jeffrey Marquis. I worked with the band rehearsing a couple of pieces and talking about playing. This was a vibrant group showing good musicianship and communication through their presentations.I should say special thanks at this point to my hosts for the week, Chris and Heather Priest. Chris is currently Director of Communications at Territorial Headquarters in Atlanta, and doing a great job with all things media (check out the Southern Territory website!). Chris is also a former ISB colleague, so it is no surprise that we shared many a story and memory of days gone by. However, thanks to both Chris and Heather (and the two dogs!) for their kindness.

The Saturday morning event at

Atlanta Temple was something I was looking forward to - it was the fi nal of the Territorial Singing Company Competition! My role was to adjudicate along with Captain Sally Broughton and Dr Beatrice Holz. This was an outstanding occasion, with nine singing companies (each one a winner from their Division) ready to compete. There was excellent singing, well-choreographed presentation and impeccable uniform standards throughout the morning. Each singing company had to present an ‘own-choice’, as well as a set piece specially written for the day by Captain Sally Broughton - an innovative setting of the song I’m a soldier bound for Glory. After marking each criteria and giving brief feed-back notes, the adjudicators handed our marks to be collated. It was stated they all were winners (which they were). However, the competition winners were the Orlando Citadel Singing Company – congratulations to them!

On Saturday we moved to the magnifi cent Performing Arts Centre for the Concert of Worship. With band, songsters, youth band, massed singing

companies, creative arts ensemble and soloists, the evening called us to rise up – and worship – sing – give – follow. A special memory for me will be the presentation of Dean Goffi n’s The light of the world. The visual, artistic, and musical elements were brought together in such a meaningful and clear way. Further visual impact was provided by the scripture presentation by Major Denise Hawk (USA Western Territory).

It was an evening of high energy and praise.

To be part of the Commissioning and appointments meetings was a special privilege. In common with other Territories, the Territorial Band and Songsters were in support of the main event. However, this was done in an excellent and sensitive way throughout the day.

USA Southern Territorial Band

Orlando Citadel Singing Company

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Delegates share their experiences from Easter Music Course 2013

Day one, PETER HAZELWOOD (Sheringham)As my wife and I travelled from Norfolk, we wondered what the EMC would be like at the new venue after enjoying the course at Sunbury Court for so many years. We were completely reassured when we were given the usual warm welcome from the EMC team when we arrived. It was great to be reunited with so many friends, to greet new friends and to feel the fellowship was still very much alive. After a meal and time spent getting to know each other, we fi nished the fi rst day with a moving epilogue led by chaplain Major Paul Johnson (Winton), with the theme ‘Who do you think you are?’ Using the example of Peter, Major Johnson challenged us tore-examine our own relationship with the Lord.

Day two, DAVID BUCKLE (Enfi eld)This day really had the ‘wow’ factor. Barbara Steadman-Allen led the

morning Bible study, discussing how easy it can be to go astray. After lunch Major James Williams (THQ) told the very moving story of his

path to offi cership. Later, the band was privileged to rehearse under the leadership of Ray Farr – a distinguished musician with a strong Army

background. Bedford Congress Hall Band visited in the evening.

Day three, CLAIRE SIMONS (Gainsborough)The midweek point seemed to have arrived too quickly, however we still had some excellent things to look forward to! The Bible study by Lieut-Colonel George Pilkington(THQ) was defi nitely a highlight for me. He spoke openly and honestly about Acts 3 and 4, focusing on the power of Jesus’ name. Guests Lieut-Colonel Ray and Joy Steadman-Allen visited the vocal group while we were singing Blessèd be the Lord and then RSA shared his own arrangement of Consecration Hymn with the band, stirring the hearts of the players. Winton Songsters, who visited in the evening, were fantastic. My particular favourite was Alpha and Omega. The male voices sang Anthem from Chess, which was just superb. We shared in singing Don’t Despair to fi nish a wonderful day.

Day four, JAYNE KNUCKEY (Morriston)Rehearsals commenced with the band practising pieces for the music review. A poignant moment occurred at the end when Lieut-Colonel Trevor Davis asked for prayers for former comrades and their return to the fellowship. Before the choral practice began, Mirjam Büechi (Zurich Central) led an amusing warm up getting the choir to move energetically while yodelling. Dinner was a Victorian-style masquerade ball that led to the murder mystery evening. Gillian Pomering (THQ) excelled in her role as the murderer and confused all who attempted to solve the crime. The talent show followed when delegates were treated to brass ensembles, a hosepipe trombone duet, amusing poems, Swiss yodelling, bass trumpet and tuba solos and vocal items.

Day fi ve, LIEUT-COLONEL MARGARET DAVISThe fi nal day began with people hurriedly vacating their

rooms. Soon we gathered for the music review. It was encouraging to hear how much had been achieved in just a few days. The review concluded with the whole

group singing Joy because of you, Come as the spring and a lovely benediction, Peace be with you, written

by Stephen Pearson and course director Andrew Blyth. Major Paul Johnson led the fi nal worship meeting,

consisting largely of a testimony time in which the bond that has developed between regular attenders was

clearly evident. The EMC is as much in demand as ever; the blend of worship, Bible study, music-making, humour

and good company survives well and there seems no reason why that will change in the foreseeable future.

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The Contemporary Guitarist – methods for the worship musician is a book & accompanying DVD resource with progressive 15-20 minute lessons. It is designed to take a raw beginner guitarist through to a worship music leader in a short space of time.

The book has been designed and produced by The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory as a resource for teachers, after school clubs or for individuals who want to learn and develop their skills at their own pace.

The book includes lead sheets for popular hymns and songs by Transmission (the Southern Territorial praise team) as well as thought provoking scripture and other planning tools for worship leadership through music. The book is labelled up as ‘Level 1’ with the progressive Levels 2 & 3 still in production. As such the content of the book and DVD resource is fairly elementary and will be of most use to those who are complete novices.

For the UK audience some of the terminology used in the book and on the DVD will be a little unusual, and include some Americanisms (for example, the term ‘measure’ rather than ‘bar’) but the skills and techniques taught for starting to play guitar are entirely transferable. The DVD is friendly and accessible and even includes an outtakes section which is worth a watch for a giggle.

Overall it’s a great resource and a thoroughly fantastic development from our Salvation Army friends over in the USA. This would make a great present for a budding guitarist worship leader.

The Contemporary Guitarist – methods for the worship musician. A review by Matt Leeder

Congregational Song Arrangements, Vol 1. ooonnggg AArrrraaanngggeeemmeeennttsss,, VVoooll 11.

PREFACE by Staff Bandmaster Ronald Waiksnoris

The New York Staff Band has been privileged to be in a supporting role at major territorial events since the beginning of its existence. Special meetings like the Welcome of Cadets and Commissioning happen every year and Congresses and Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings are often on the horizon. For many of these events, through the years, the meeting planners have wanted special arrangements of congregational songs that are exciting and meaningful.

With this new series, the New York Staff Band will begin to share these song accompaniments. The arrangements can be challenging and are best suited for a full complement of brass players.

This new series will serve two purposes: One, you are holding in your hands as you look at this score. The other is a series of video accompaniments with the New York Staff Band playing this music that can be used in smaller corps, Offi cers’ Councils or other gatherings where video projection and sound is available.

It is the hope and prayer of the members of the New York Staff Band that this music will be used to bring honour and glory to God and joy to the hearts of those involved with the music-making.

Now available at $69.95Edited by Dorothy Gates

1. Sound the Battle Cry2. Make the World with Music Ring

3. Savior Like a Shepherd4. Come, Join Our Army

Now available at $69.95Edited by Dorothy Gates

1. Sound the Battle Cry2. Make the World with Music Ring

3. Savior Like a Shepherd4. Come, Join Our Army

Visit http://samedia.org/media/nysb/ to watch

the videos and listen to the music and

[email protected] for more

information.

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From a beautiful, iconic church to a tent! Maidenhead Citadel Band visit Finland and Estonia

Maidenhead Citadel Band (Bandmaster Stuart Hall) has completed yet another successful overseas tour, this time to Finland and Estonia. On assembling at London Heathrow, The Salvation Army chaplain to the airport, Major Fred Thompson, prayed with the band that their tour would not only bless those whom they came into contact with but also that the band themselves would experience a blessing. That prayer was to stay with the band for the next six days and become more evident with each day and each opportunity.

After arriving in Helsinki, Finland, the band travelled on to Jyväskylä, arriving just before 10.00pm. Even though it seemed like mid-afternoon, for some, this was to be their fi rst taste of the midnight sun.

The fi rst full day started brightly in Jyväskylä, with a two hour open-air concert at a local supermarket – complete with BBQ and ice cream which was served to the public who were standing and watching. Another outside concert was held later on in the day, again with a BBQ, and soldiers of the Corps gave out publicity material and made contacts.

Sunday saw the band travel another 50 miles further north to Saarijärvi for a midday concert in the Community Theatre, before returning

back to Jyväskylä to take part in the Corps 110th Anniversary celebrations at the local Pentecostal Church.

Back in Helsinki, the band were privileged to play in the famous Rock Church. As well as playing, the band delighted the audience by singing Rock of ages.

Following another day of open-air activity in Helsinki, the band boarded the ferry to Tallinn, Estonia. They were met at the SA Rehabilitation Centre where a tent had been put up earlier in the week. The previous day, over 400 people had arrived to hear the good news of the Gospel. Many turned up again the following day to hear the band. Most of those attending had drug or alcohol addictions

and it was evident that this is where God was using the Maidenhead Band’s ministry to its fullest. Such a humbling experience for all those privileged to make the journey from Maidenhead to Estonia.

The fi nal concert of the tour took place in a recital room at the Tallinn Opera House.What a privilege for the Maidenhead Citadel Band to be used as an evangelical tool of encouragement to those in need where The Salvation Army is contributing so much to the physical and spiritual needs of that very special community. We thank God for what we have and what we have been able to give.

Report by Stuart Hall & Coral Lazenbury

Evangelism and music!

Maidenhead Citadel Band

www.sarmy.org.au/en/Resources/Creative-Arts2/Publications

The Creative Arts Department from the Australia Southern Territory have had a revamp on their website offering their new publications online.

Be sure to have a look at the new website using the link below.

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After a break of two years due to ISB120 and the I’ll Fight Congress, last weekend saw the return of the Gospel Arts Concert / Music Leaders’ Councils weekend. The weekend started on Friday 7th June with a 21st-Century Gowans and Larsson Concert at Regent Hall. This was a great evening of songs from the musicals arranged for big-band and chorus by Kevin Larsson.

Three years ago, we commenced a series of recordings called John Larsson plays, which now reaches its conclusion with the launch of Volume 4 – Favourites from White Rose, Son of Man, Man – Mark II and The Meeting. This has been a successful project for us, not just in terms of album sales but also for the renewed interest in the musicals themselves from the Christian community. As with the fi rst three volumes, Volume 4 is available on CD for £9.99, or to download from SP&S Tunes for £7.99.

The International Staff Band’s Heritage Series has now reached the 1970s with the launch of Volume 5. As was the case with Volume 4, Volume 5 has been produced as a double album, the fi rst disc consisting of new recordings while the second is compiled from previous recordings by the band and includes Life’s Pageant in which Terry Camsey is the

cornet soloist in his own composition.

Our third album release at the Gospel Arts weekend was An Evening at the Citadel. The content of this album has been carefully chosen to refl ect the weekly participation in worship of the music groups of Norwich Citadel and it is hoped that listeners will be inspired and brought closer to God by the music and the interspersed spoken contributions from Alison Gibson.

Last month, the band from North York Temple undertook a tour of the British Isles and brought with it two brand new albums highlighting much of the music played during the tour, most of it new and not previously recorded. SP&S has secured a limited stock

of Everywhere (band only) and Kingdom Seekers (band soloists) which is selling fast, so if you’d like a copy of one (or both!) CDs, we advise you to order without delay. Finally, there’s just time to tell you about our special pre-launch offer on our DVD of the Gospel Arts Concert 2013 – Keep Me Praising! which is available for just £19.95 if ordered by 1st August. Order now from our Mail Order Department (01933 445 445) or from the DVDs section of the SP&S website. It is anticipated that the DVD will be available in September.

Thank you for taking the trouble to read the latest news from SP&S. We look forward to serving you however you choose to shop with us.

Carl WoodmanHead of MarketingSalvation Army Trading Company Limited Email; carl.woodman@sp-s.co.ukwww.worldofbrass.comwww.worldofbrasstunes.comwww.sps-shop.comwww.spstunes.com

Latest news from SP&SLatest news from SP&S

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/music

Contact information: Music Ministries Unit are committed to helping and resourcing wherever possible. Please do not hesitate to get in contact with us.

Telephone - 020 7367 4965Email - [email protected] - www.salvationarmy.org.uk/music

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Interview with Major Noel Wright – Executive Offi cer - ISB

Q. Can you remember your initial reaction to your ISB appointment?Remember it? I don’t think I am ever likely to forget the absolute sense of shock as I listened to the TC ask me for my thoughts on his proposal to give me the appointment. Whilst others offi cers in THQ may have given some thought to the position when they knew a new Executive Offi cer was needed, I was not one of them. However, I will always be thankful for the opportunity to share in the ministry of the ISB.

Q. What was your perception of the ISB?A group of quality musicians who were some of the Territory’s best brass players. To my shame, I had never really given much more thought than that as to what the band is, which serves only to heighten my amazement, and I suspect that of many others, at being given the appointment.

Q. What encourages you most on a typical ISB weekend corps visit?It is diffi cult to narrow it down to any one feature. I am always encouraged by the commitment of time given by the band and their families. Equally, I am always encouraged by the time given by the many who choose to travel in order to sit under the band’s ministry.

Q. What do you think the ISB has to offer in a 2013 Salvation Army? Quality music and ministry that offers a quality encounter with God.

Q. How would you describe a coach trip with the ISB?Long! The return journey always seems to take longer. I have enjoyed watching where the band members tend to sit on the coach. It would take a much more qualifi ed person than me to interpret the signifi cance of why we sit where we sit but I fi nd human behaviour interesting. I would want to say that I have enjoyed the coach trips, they allowed time for conversations which I have appreciated.

Q. What music has spoken to you personally?I have been astonished by the skill of the band’s various soloists, each of them are truly gifted musicians. The following pieces are pieces that I like to hear: The day of the Lord, Guardian of my soul, Soli deo gloria, Quest and Fire in the blood. I have also enjoyed the band’s singing which has been a feature of the season just ended and I should also say that I have been moved by the attention the band members give to the personal testimonies share during Corps visits.

Q. What do you see as the main functions of the executive offi cer?One word would summarize it; relationships! I saw my role as one of developing the relationships between the members of the band, deepening their understanding and experience of the special fellowship they share and, primarily, offering them opportunities to deepen their own relationship with Christ. Added to what has been stated is, of course, the challenge of playing your part within the overall ministry of the band. A demanding appointment but a privileged position and I remain amazed that I have had the opportunity.

Q. Is there a moment that stands out in your time with the band?‘Spartacus’! This is something that happened during one of our Sunday morning meetings. I’ll say nothing more about it, you had to be there! On a more serious note, I recall the reaction of one of the congregations during last year’s short trip to Switzerland. Fire in the blood had been played and I witnessed people in tears, others on their feet cheering. An unforgettable moment.

Q. How important is music-making within The Salvation Army? Music remains key to the life of our movement. Our Creator has chosen to communicate in many ways, music is but one of them. Since music is a way God wants to speak to his people and through them, we need to do all we can to let him be heard.

Q. What message do you leave for the future of the work of the ISB?I know that the band will stay focused on being who they are, so my message would be all the Corps who will invite the ISB to ‘come their way’. Do whatever you can to make the most of the time you have them with you. The band went recently to Llanelli where they ministered in fi ve different venues in the short time they were there. Splitting into smaller groups proved to be inspirational in many ways and so I would encourage Corps to be as creative as they can be when they have the band spend a weekend with them.

e TC may

was not SB.

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ISB NewsPersonnel:• The band have appointed Carl Neilsen as principle cornet. Carl is a member of the Croydon Citadel Corps, where he soldiers with his wife Amanda (herself a former ISB member), and his two children, Kristen & Thomas.• Gordon Camsey has made a return to help us on Bass Trombone.• Major Noel Wright has fi nished his tenure as the band’s executive offi cer.

• The ISB have been back in the studio recording a repertoire CD, to be released later in the year. This features music from our current programme.• We have enjoyed recent visits to Cambridge and Llanelli. Both of these weekends giving the ISB an opportunity for concerts, Sunday ministry, and positive outreach, Llanelli corps using the band in fi ve different places (various groups) throughout the weekend.• Following the Gospel Arts concert and music leaders councils, the band look forward to a visit to the USA in August, taking part in the annual Old Orchard Beach weekend in Maine, USA.

If only... Another exciting sermon

The ISB would wish to thank Major Noel Wright for his contribution to the life of the ISB as executive offi cer. He has both shared with the band in a personal way, and presented the message in a powerful way with understanding and clarity. We thank him sincerely and wish him well in his new appointment at the William Booth College.