USA East Music BULLETIN - FALL 2019 - ISSUE 3 | Page 8

MASSBRASS
CONCERT WITH
JOHN FAIETA
MAY 13, 2019 — One could tell as the chapel of the Lowell
Citadel Corps was filling to near capacity that there was an air
of excitement in anticipation of the concert to be presented by
The Salvation Army Mass Brass, the Lowell Citadel Songsters and
special guest trombone soloist, John Faieta of the Boston Pops
Orchestra. The band’s presentation of Stephen Bulla’s “March
Patriotica” set the pace for an inspired and exciting night of music.
Following the opening prayer by Lowell Corps Officer, Captain
Tim Ross the congregation rose to sing “I Stand Amazed in the
Presence” affirming our love and devotion to the Lord Jesus and
acknowledging that all the musical offerings of the evening were
to the honor and glory of God.
“Onward, MASS” written for the Mass Brass for the 2018
Massachusetts Divisional Congress by Dr. Dorothy Gates was
played with great energy and enthusiastically received by all. This
was followed by the John Williams’ more reflective “Hymn to the
Fallen” from “Saving Private Ryan”.
The Lowell Citadel Songsters, under the leadership of S/L
Jennifer Bennett were on next presenting a delightful arrangement
of “Showers of Blessing”. It was truly a blessing to hear the
songsters presentation.
Territorial Music Secretary, Bandmaster Derek Lance, having
taken his place in the band as a “guest musician” on flugel, shared
inspiring words of encouragement. It was then time to hear from
special guest soloist, John Faiteta of the Boston Pops Orchestra,
who blessed us with a beautiful rendition of Peter Graham’s
arrangement of “I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked”. Following
this and just prior to a brief intermission he thrilled us with his
presentation of Terry Camsey’s “Sing a Happy Song”
8 • USA EAST MUSIC BULLETIN | FA L L 2 0 1 9
By Major A. Philip Ferreira, Montclair Citadel, NJ
Strains of Irving Berlin’s well-loved patriotic song, “God Bless
America” opened the second half of the program. This was
followed by Divisional Music Director, Matthew Luhn conducting
an informative and entertaining interview with guest soloist, John
Faieta. To say that this was well received by those gathered would
be an understatement. Following this interview, this virtuoso
trombonist flawlessly presented Arthur Pryor’s “The Blue Bells of
Scotland” followed by a rousing standing ovation.
“Lest I Forget Your Love” was beautifully presented by the
songsters followed by a Devotional Thought by Major Philip
Ferreira reminding all of God’s Faithfulness.
Wilfred Heaton’s
challenging and moving “My Treasure”, effectively presented by
the band, concluded with this beautiful reminder of the loving
care of our Savior.
“Resting so sweetly in my Savior’s care,
He’s always near me, joys and griefs to share;
He leads me gently, gives me grace and power
Through Him I’ve victory…
In the darkest, darkest hour.”
The final item that the Mass Brass would present was Andrew
Mackereth’s “Duke Street Variations.” The audience showed their
appreciation for the blessings of a great evening of Salvation Army
music making.
In benediction, the band played, then sang with the
congregation joining in…”Christ is All, Yes All in All, My Christ is All
in All” A fitting conclusion to a great night of music “to the honor
and glory of God”.
Well done Bandmaster Matthew Luhn and Massachusetts
Musicians! ■
W W W. M U S I C . S A CO N N E C T S . O R G