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By Josh Lyle , NYSB First Cornet
MAY 20-22 , 2022 – The New York Staff Band engaged in a unique combination of service in the month of May . The band has been playing some exciting music this season which culminated in putting together a new recording project featuring repertoire from composers to hold the office of The Eastern Territory ’ s Music Editor position . Dynamic composers like Peter Graham , James Curnow , Kevin Norbury , Erik Leidzen , Brian Bowen , Stephen Bulla , Emil Soderstrom , and of course , our very own Dorothy Gates were included in the recording list … The best of the best was called to provide support in the control room – Philip Bulla ( recording engineer ), Marcus Venables , and Ron Waiksnoris .
The band started recording these pieces on Wednesday during our normal rehearsal time , and then finished up with recording sessions on Friday evening and Saturday morning . The list of music from these prolific composers includes the following : Army of God – Emil Soderstrom Trittico – James Curnow Aubade – Kevin Norbury Shenandoah – Dorothy Gates Chorale and Toccata – Stephen Bulla
At the Master ’ s Feet – Erik Leidzen Southern Cross – Brian Bowen Essence of Time – Peter Graham How Sweet the Name – James Curnow Benediction – arr Dorothy Gates During our recording sessions , I was moved by the music of Dorothy Gates . Specifically , her piece entitled “ Benediction ” left the band hushed at the fall of the final beat , as we felt the Holy Spirit move in the band room . O Father , let Thy love remain , O Son , may I Thy likeness gain , O Spirit , stay to comfort me , O Triune God , praise be to Thee . I think this sums up the focus of the band when we travel the territory . Our mission is to point people to Jesus Christ through exceptional music performance and to enjoy the Lord ’ s presence as we join with other Salvationists . Benediction is a reminder that God the Father loves us , we are to keep our eyes focused on Jesus Christ , and to enjoy the presence of the Holy Spirit .
To continue in the ministry weekend , the band traveled to Nassau County , NY to participate in the 39 th Annual Youth Enrichment Concert that benefits the Salvation Army ’ s work in Nassau County
( Long Island ). It was great to hear the Westbury Corps Youth Band and Timbrels as they performed a pre-concert in the fabulous venue , the Cradle of Aviation Museum .
The Staff Band opened the program with James Curnow ’ s “ Faith is the Victory ”. After the welcome and opening prayer , the band played three more selections : “ The
THE SALVATION ARMY USA EAST
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