number of works published , but what has seen print are excellent of their kind .
There is a similar output and impact in his concert marches that bands will be playing for many years . Among these are The Southern Cross , The Warriors , and Determined to Conquer , to name but three . His large-scale works demand the most of any band and will continue to attract the keen listener . Consider Hope Variations , recorded by the NYSB under Waiksnoris , or Salem Variations , or even the American Band Journal , shorter festival work , Prelude and Celebration . Yet for what some might label ‘ high-brow output , Bowen could also deliver miniature gems of a practical , ‘ ordinary ’
frame . These are represented by such fine arrangements as Love Divine (“ Stainer ”), Jesus Paid It All , Easter Hymn , or the Triumph Series gem , I Love the Saviour ’ s Name .
In his professional life he became an outstanding editor of music , first in the International Music Editorial Department [ IMED ], and then with professional musical firms like Schott — Eulenberg . With this longstanding experience , he must be considered among the most versatile of editors , not only for the IMED , the publications of the Music Department of New York , but also , in socalled “ retirement ,” further efforts in editing for the USA Central and aspects of the SA ’ s publishing series back in the UK .
From a personal standpoint , it had been my privilege to reconnect with Brian in recent years . We had a good series of email exchanges on a variety of topics , mostly musical though I enjoyed thoroughly his take on American politics ! One small example of our musical discussions might be revealing of the man . He shared with me that while editing for Ernst Eulenburg , Ltd , he had the privilege of preparing the final versions of Dr . Thomas Rive ’ s edition of a motet and mass by the great Renaissance composer Tomas Luis de Victoria ( c . 1548 — 1611 ): a Latin motet O quam gloriosum , and the Missa O quam gloriosum . Rive , a musicologist specializing in Victoria , was also a fine Salvationist composer — musician . Bowen had had some interaction with him prior to Rive ’ s death 1972 , thought the Eulenburg editions did not come out till 1978 . Bowen had such a depth of knowledge in the field of music — I was honored and delighted to interact with him on such ‘ arcane ’ yet beautiful pieces . That is just one small example of the measure of the man .
When one got to know Brian personally , one found him very personal , his conversation always tending to the serious side , yet with a touch of quiet , wry humor . One needed to get beyond Bowen ’ s British reserve to really know him . When listening to his excellent scores , you can sense and feel the heart of the man — yes , even the ‘ suppliant heart .’ We Salvationist musicians have been enriched by his life , and by his music . I thank God for Brian Bowen .
— RON HOLZ
THE SALVATION ARMY USA EAST
SUMMER 2023 NYSB BULLETIN 17