Lt . Colonel Kathleen Steele extended the devotional tone by reminding us how powerful and yet sweet is the name of Jesus ( Phil . 2:9-11 ). This segued beautifully into the band chorus singing “ How Sweet the Name ”. Beautiful and sublime is the arrangement by James Curnow which features the American shaped note melody “ Consolation ”.
Continuing with James Curnow and the tune “ Consolation ” his composition “ Trittico ” ended the first half . While challenging for any band , with many delicate solos and rhythmic intricacies , the music is quite soulful and very powerful .
Kenneth Downie ’ s march “ Choose Freedom ” ( one of the most demanding I have ever played ) opened the second half . I then had the privilege to introduce Bandmaster Michael Orfitelli ( Manchester Citadel ) and express the gratitude of the Southern New England Division and the Eastern Territory for his 55 years of service as Bandmaster . You cannot sum up that kind of dedication in mere sentences . His service is done out of the love of music and the desire to present the Gospel message to those who would listen and hear it . SOLI DEO GLORIA .
Aaron VanderWeele displayed once again why he is known in the euphonium world as one of the best with his rendition of Robert Redhead ’ s solo “ Euphony ” – it was amazing ! With a swing of emotion , the band invited all to “ Be still for the presence of the Lord , the Holy one is here ”. “ Still ” by Andrew Blyth soothed everyone before the final item “ Shine as the Light ” by Peter Graham . This masterpiece was written 25 years ago in the memory of Staff Bandsman Al Honsberger , and premiered at Star Lake Music Camp , concluded the concert . The New York Staff Band throughout the entire evening displayed power and delicacy , strength and gentleness , finesse and elegance in a way that is an example to Brass Bands worldwide . What a great crowd we had to share this wonderful music with . Thank you to all who attended “ Blazing Brass Praise and Worship ”.
Sunday morning , we gathered at Manchester Citadel . As always , the Staff Bandsmen prepare their stands for the meeting to follow . Music is set for the prelude , songs , offertory , selection , and postlude . The choice of music made for an introspective service and combined with the Manchester tradition of family altar was to be a blessing to all .
With selections such as “ Churchbury ” ( Richard Phillips ), “ Thy Tenderest Blessing ” ( Stephen Wood ), and “ My Comfort and Strength ” ( Brian Bowen ), as a prelude to worship and including congregational songs “ All Hail the Power of Jesus Name ” ( arr . William Himes ), and “ O Church Arise ”
( arr . William Himes ), there became a strong sense of the majesty and comfort in the Name of Jesus , as well as the strength that comes through corporate worship . Lt . Colonel Kathleen Steele spoke from her heart of the need for complete surrender to God , to place what we have before God because what we give Him is magnified by Him . There was a wonderful sense of completion to the weekend as we sang “ O Church Arise ”. The poetry reminding everyone to put on the full Armor of God and fight with faith and valor in the light of the Risen Son , reaching out to those in darkness .
THE SALVATION ARMY USA EAST FALL 2022 ������������� ‡ 17