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SA BANDSMAN PAGE 2 NEWS

Hadleigh pays tribute to Bramwell Chestney Peter Bale reports

A festival was arranged recently at Hadleigh forts of darkness, before the band delighted tribute from Major George Whittingham, who Temple Corps in memory of Bramwell Chestney. listeners with Fantasia for Children (James referred to Bram’s melodic speaking voice, A noted euphonium soloist, Bram had served Wright). as well as his lyrical sound as a player and his both as Bandmaster as Songster Leader at the willingness to share in the pastoral ministry corps, and had been the principal euphonium The lively Jesus saves me (Ivor Bosanko) was with the band. Chris Carter then gave a well- with the South London Fellowship Band for contrasted with the reflective Remember me controlled reading of To a wild rose that his several years. The band opened the programme (Ray Steadman-Allen), before Robin Bryant, grandfather would have been proud of. with Celebration (Leslie Condon), during which who served as Bram’s deputy for many years, Hadleigh Temple Songsters marched into the shared some memories. The band’s current The Light of the World (Dean Goffin) served as hall. principal euphonium, Adrian Horwood, then a prelude to the scripture thoughts, with Major gave an enjoyable account of The Better World Wright alluding to the impact Bram had exerted All the songster items were songs that Bram (Norman Bearcroft). Staying with Bearcroft, over those around him, and the way that “every had led during his time in charge, the first The Well is Deep preceded Easter Glory (Leslie contact leaves a trace”. The male voices of the two being Where I love to be (Trevor Davis) Condon), which closed the first half. songsters joined with the band to sing I know and Jesus Thou joy of loving hearts (George thee who thou art (arr. Bearcroft), with its Marshall). Corps Officer Major David Woodman Hadleigh Temple Timbrels (Irene Ivory) joined assurance of a better life to come. The evening, welcomed the guests, including the chairman the band for Goldcrest (James Anderson), which raised £350 for Cancer Research, closed for the evening, former Commanding Officer which was followed by the congregation singing with the march Light-bringer (Martin Cordner), Major Noel Wright. The congregation then Zephaniah’s Song. To God be the glory (Chris featuring the melodies Send the Fire and O joined in a rousing rendition of Storm the Mallett) and Adoration (Tom Fettke) led into a Boundless Salvation.

London North East Fellowship Band marks 30th anniversary Peter Bale reports

The London North East Fellowship Band Dudley Bright explained that the composer the première of the march Spirit of the East, marked its 30th anniversary with a festival at used to delight in trying to catch out his especially written for the occasion, and using Hadleigh Temple. Formed under Harold Sadler, accompanists with unexpected changes the melodies Never give up, What a friend, I’ll current Bandmaster Ken Hillson is only the of tempo, but Enid Weaver was up to the not turn back and Grace there is my every debt third leader in the history of the band. Guest challenge. to pay. soloists were Dudley Bright (trombone) and Enid Weaver (vocal), and the evening was The first movement of Eine kleine Nachtmusik Enid’s second contribution was Ray Steadman- chaired by the band’s former Executive Officer, preceded Enid’s first song, Ivor Bosanko’s Allen’s Britten-influenced setting of My soul Lt. Col. David Phillips. setting of Lily of the Valley, Carl Carter is now united. She then returned to the piano accompanying. Principal cornet, Keith Johnson, to accompany Dudley in the same composer’s Spirit of the Army (Norman Bearcroft) made was featured in Who is He (arr. Richard Phillips) reflective Walk with me. for a brisk opening, and was followed by and then Dudley joined the band for A never the processional Shine on us (James Wright failing friend (Erik Leidzén), the band coping Lt. Col. Phillips brought a message from the adpt. Andrew Mackereth). Albert Jakeway’s well with the subtleties of the accompaniment scriptures, before Deputy Bandmaster Max Where duty calls then underlined the aim and as the soloist demonstrated his prowess. Weaver led the band in Standing somewhere commitment of the band, with its call to Stand in the shadows (Kenneth Downie). The evening up, stand up for Jesus. After the band played Soli Deo Gloria (William ended appropriately with a measured account Himes), presentations were made and of Celebration (Leslie Condon), with Dudley Introducing Thoughts of Love (Arthur Pryor), messages read out before Dudley conducted joining the trombone section.

Correction Last month’s issue, in the article entitled ‘New season sees staff band personnel changes’, incorrectly stated that Samantha Hocqué-Sterkenburg and Johan Hocqué were the first married couple to be members of the Amsterdam Staff Band at the same time. In fact, in 2000 Paul Roelofs (trombone) and his wife Denise (cornet) were members of the band. SA Bandsman apologises for this inaccuracy.

SA BANDSMAN PAGE 3 EVENTS

Iain Parkhouse reports

For the 69th time, the Annual Pre-Contest Festival given by Enfield Citadel Band was an occasion of thrilling music, innovative programming and brass playing of a very high quality! From the bright sounds of Steven Ponsford’s opener Let there Be Light, one could sense the band was in good form and eager to please the mix of international and domestic listeners.

The lively acoustic often meant that specific detail was not always clearly audible, but the sizzling pace of Saint-Saens’ Marche Militaire Francaise left one in no doubt that attention to detail was uppermost in Bandmaster Jonathan Corry’s mind for the evening ahead.

The Royal College of Music has probably had most variants of ensemble perform on its concert platform over the years, but for most musical line and shape that any brass player to the thematic material used by Dorothy of us attending this year’s Pre-Contest Festival, would do well to emulate. Gates in Another World, which she had rescored it was an unusual first to hear the band joined especially for the quintet and band. Fragments by a brass quintet as one of its guest artists! The centre-point of the evening was Ray from Leslie Condon’s A Song of Praise featured The Central Band of the Royal Air Force has Steadman-Allen’s masterpiece The Lord is the quintet again in solo form during the middle always been at the forefront of military band King - chosen as one of a number of personal movement, with the band surrounding the musicianship and its brass quintet certainly tributes to the Army’s foremost composer (and group but in no way overpowering the outer two highlighted these qualities. The choice of former Bandmaster) in the presence of his two movements. Charles Ives’ Variations on America as its daughters; here the band could be heard at its solo item was a courageous one where the best on this particular evening. This is music Leslie Condon was then the featured composer group clearly looked to make their mark on the that never fails to impress, both in content, as Les Neish joined with RAF tuba player evening! Playing with confidence and an ear for where new nuances can still be heard even after Jonathan Gawn in a terrific romp through the ensemble and tuning are a must for a group such numerous hearings, and the sheer genius of duet Radiant Pathway - all the more remarkable as this. This it showed in abundance for a crisp RSA’s creative mind being clearly evident. The as there’d been no rehearsal with both soloists and assured reading. content of the three-movement suite, taken present! simply from words in the songbook - My Joys, There can be no better compliment to a tuba My Toil, My Craftsman’s Skill - are amongst Two further tributes to Ray Steadman-Allen soloist to be compared with the late, great John his finest, right down to the detail of the final recognising his arrangement skills in Simple Fletcher and according to Bramwell Tovey in the movement’s opening musical motif depicting Gifts and his timeless pastorale selection In programme notes, Les Neish has those qualities! Leslie Condon’s (his Music Editorial colleague) Quiet Pastures, introduced by the recently Les is a player not only completely in control of ‘tap on the desk’ depicting ‘let’s get to work’! The appointed Corps Officer to Enfield, Major his craft, but one who openly enjoys and even band simply loves this type of challenge and it Andrew Gaudion, gave the band the opportunity laps up the challenge of the music he plays! has become its symbol of excellence over the to express itself in these reflective moments to The Ralph Vaughan-Williams Tuba Concerto, years - driving rhythms, quiet moments and great effect, before Les Neish returned with a written originally for Philip Catelinet, was an technical flourishes were all drawn out from his beautiful arrangement simply entitled Ballad. inspired choice. Despite the challenges of a players as Bandmaster Corry shaped a fitting band accompaniment, where the soloist would tribute to an Army great. The finale was always going to be a tough choice usually be expected to contrast the solo line in how to incorporate the RAF Quintet once with the familiar orchestral colours, here a more After the inevitable RAF March Past with Wing more, but Parry’s I was Glad seemed a fitting end robust reading was required, and it worked Commander Duncan Stubbs at the helm, the in many ways to an evening of thrilling playing spectacularly well. The middle movement, compère for the evening (as for the last few and imaginative, God-glorifying music-making Romanza, was particularly beautiful, with years), Paul Hindmarsh, gave us a great insight from the band and its guests.

SA BANDSMAN PAGE 4 EVENTS

Jan Ambrose reports

Expressions, which heralds Regent Hall’s Brass Arts Festival, is now an established annual event. The brainchild of Bandmaster Stephen Hanover and now in its 14th year, it is aimed at former and non-churchgoers as well as regular attendees. It pushes the boundaries of Salvation Army concerts, with the use of dry ice, sophisticated lighting effects and, on this occasion, indoor fireworks, and exploits the layout of a Victorian building (described by one attendee as like a mini Albert Hall). Expressions comprises many genres of music: Salvation Army classics, gospel, classical, modern and traditional. Light-hearted and dramatic moments blend seamlessly into periods of devotion and reflection.

Solemnity was thrown into the mix this year. Two bandsmen who between them had contributed an astonishing 120 years of service The evening saw the debut of what compère Later in the programme, the mood changed were ‘Promoted to Glory’ a few months ago. Beth Gibson referred to as “The Salvation as Young People’s Band Leader Nathanael The concert started with a musical tribute to Army’s answer to One Direction”. She was Watchorn conducted the band in his thoughtful Bandmaster Eric Rapp (Retired) and Bandsman right, judging by the tumultuous, Wembley- composition And can it be, which gave everyone Colin Ambrose. As pictures of these dedicated style reception to the slick performance by present the opportunity for reflection on lovely Christians and Salvationists were shown on the Four Hymn, the Army’s first-ever boy band words that are usually sung to a rousing tune. big screen, Lisa Hooper, Colin’s daughter, stood (Bandsmen Nathanael Watchorn and Nick It also set the scene for Four Hymn’s second on a darkened balcony to play the poignantly Hampton and Songsters Karl Westwood and contribution, This is amazing grace. During the lovely introductory cornet solo in Steven Joe Rose). Although the programme featured devotional section, Rachel Gray, accompanied Ponsford’s The break of day, while Colin’s a number of first performances, the Rink Band by Regent Hall Band, sang We are the reason, granddaughters performed a dance routine. also played some old favourites. Its members, the words of which explain why the Son of This hauntingly beautiful music is associated who include Salvation Army officers and God gave his life for a lost world. In her well- with the words ‘Bless the Lord, O my soul, O range in age from sprightly 80-year-olds to chosen words, Beth Gibson showed a video my soul, Worship His holy name, Sing like never teenagers, demonstrated their athleticism clip of this year’s Congress, when Salvationists before, O my soul, I’ll worship Your holy name’. with their well-choreographed take on Deputy from all over the world met to celebrate our Bandmaster Paul’s Sharman’s composition international organisation’s 150th birthday. This year’s event focused on the youth of On duty. The rapturous applause confirmed Reading from 1 Corinthians, Chapter 13, she the corps. The youngest soloist, 15-year-old that the audience never tires of hearing solos reiterated the importance of love and stressed Isobel Daws, a finalist in the 2014 BBC Young from Paul Sharman (cornet) or Paul Hooper that we have not seen the best days of the Musician of the Year competition, contributed (trombone), or seeing the trombone section Army yet. The band’s final item was Steven Robin Dewhurst’s trombone solo, Brasillia, racing out from the side of the hall, before the Ponsford’s The day of the Lord, a descriptive while cornet soloist Alex Gibson opted for entire band leaves the stage to dance and at piece that includes the simple message of Elgar Howarth’s equally technically demanding one point stand on one leg, all while playing a the Charles Wesley hymn ‘We have no other Canto. Besides being a superb pianist, Elliot brass instrument. argument, We want no other plea, It is enough Launn demonstrated his versatility with his that Jesus died, And that he died for me.’ This rendition of Major Les Condon’s timeless Eb It was not solely about brass and vocal soloists; was followed by Four Hymn’s beautiful singing bass solo, Celestial Morn. there are some gifted young composers in the of The Lord’s Prayer, before the band played corps, one of whom, Alan Williams, led the band out with Bach’s Toccata in D minor, with a final Regent Hall Songsters sang two pieces in in his upbeat piece Our generation, which was flourish of indoor fireworks. contrast: the deeply thought-provoking Bow inspired by this year’s Expressions of Youth the knee, which reminds us that God is present theme. Euphonium soloists Ken Bonser-Ward And so ended another great evening, which at all times and in all circumstances, and a and Cameron Burrows stood on opposite sides was full of fun, excitement and deep meaning. sparkling modern version of the Founder’s of the darkened gallery, playing the old Army Surely all those present remembered it was song, composed by Kevin Larsson for this year’s tune, Lord, for the years, augmented on the because of God’s love that Eric and Colin Boundless Congress. The divisional youth second verse by four other bandsmen in the gave 75 and 45 years of service respectively. chorus, Central, conducted by Nick Hampton, arena. The ensemble moved to the stage and We salute their memory and greet the young delighted the audience with its powerful the full band launched into a ‘jazzy’ version of people who choose to dedicate their God-given rendition of the gospel songs, Days of Elijah, the same tune, representing the optimism that talents to , thus assuring its Worthy and Thou, O Lord. living with our Lord gives us for the future. future.

SA BANDSMAN PAGE 5 FEATURE

by Merv Collins

When I jokingly asked long-serving, now retired, the names of MSB pioneers like Jeremiah conductor of Cory Band, current champion band staff bandsman Brian Lynn if he’d played in the Eunson (the group’s first Bandmaster back in of Great Britain, wrote recently, ‘It remains Melbourne Staff Band (MSB) under Bandmaster 1890), William Gore, William Rook and Robert an absolute priority for bands to reinvent George Dickens in the 1930s, he replied, “Mate, McAnally. I discovered how an open-air meeting themselves for the newer internet-connected, I was in the band so long, I served under Charles in the 1900s would attract hundreds back to the X-Factor-consuming generations.’ Dickens!” My band service is similarly lengthy. hall; how a band programme in the 1920s would I fell in love with brass bands and Army music draw an overflowing crowd; how in the ‘30s, the The Melbourne Staff Band knows this only as a boy, many years ago, and the divine joy of band participated in just about every civic and too well and its festivals now are an attractive it has never left me. When my fading ‘chops’ royal occasion in the State and how Bandmaster combination of old and new music played while determined I should no longer play, I started Norm McLeod’s band in the ‘40s pioneered band seated or in choreographed movement, backed to write about it. As a result, when the current broadcasts and heard of souls being won over by informative multimedia technologies. The MSB musical leadership asked me to assist the air. band still endeavours, as the Founder instructed, in creating promotional material for its 125th ‘to beat and blow to get people into the hall, then anniversary year, I volunteered to research its I relived, in hugely entertaining interviews to the penitent form.’ history in full and produce a book, Sounds of the with more recent band characters - like the Gospel, to mark the occasion. incorrigible euphonium soloist John Butler and Writing the MSB history gave me a chance the waggish Brian Lynn - the musical triumphs to celebrate, not merely the staff band, but I researched old Army periodicals at the of the first overseas tour to in Salvation Army bands generally. Sounds of the Heritage Centre in Melbourne, testing the 1959 and the International Congress of 1978, Gospel is a story all band members are familiar knowledge and trying the patience of archivist and I talked to the current leaders about the with - the fun and fellowship; the music and the Lindsay Cox and his assistant, Yasmin Van challenges facing the band today. The problem message. Army music has been a major part of Gaalen-Prentice (now herself a staff band is, though the band is very good, the genre no my life and, in writing the book, I’m thanking God member). It was illuminating to put flesh to longer has the currency of old. Philip Harper, for it.

SA BANDSMAN PAGE 6 FEATURE

William Booth, felt called to work among: early days that brass bands had a place in the those on the fringe of society; the homeless, Army for fear that the music might override the drug-addicted and the mentally unstable. the message for both bandsmen and listeners. Nottle and his team counsel, feed and minister He outlined his feelings in no uncertain terms to the city’s unfortunates. As the divvy van in Officers’ Councils one year, when he declared disappeared, Brendan’s mood gradually lifted. that, “A bandsman will say all his beating and He reflected to me on the previous Sunday blowing is to get people first into the barracks when the MSB had been visitors at the corps and then to the penitent form.” to accompany a morning meeting celebrating the service of ‘614’ volunteers and to give The Melbourne Staff Band still complies with an afternoon outreach concert on the city’s the instruction and is probably more aware crowded riverbank. than most of the danger of becoming merely ‘sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal.’ It’s also “The band was great,” Nottle enthused. “They aware that, without honing its methods and tailored their music to suit our clientele and our approach, it could become an anachronism people loved it.” The run sheet for the meeting playing only to a small body of aficionados The Melbourne Staff Band in turns included I Will Follow Him, from the film of sacred brass band music. It can still play 125 in 2015. It’s an appropriate point at which Sister Act, and Carole Bayer Sager’s worldwide - and enjoys playing - the finest and most to look back at the gradual transformation of inspirational hit song, The Prayer. Executive demanding brass band repertoire, but on this an inexpert group of well-meaning amateur Officer Bruce Stevens gave a short but effective Sunday morning, for a congregation of mostly musicians into a highly-accomplished brass sermon before the unconventional congregation unchurched people, it had accompanied the band which can keep company with any in the shared lunch. The music and the speaker had singing, chosen its repertoire intelligently and world. The ‘MSB’ can reflect on a proud history connected with, for want of a better term, the provided a platform for the message. of evangelical missions, fine musicianship, Army’s target audience - a group for whom both international congresses, overseas tours and brass band and church service could well have The band is proud of its heritage, but knows support for all kinds of Salvation Army work at been quite novel experiences. where it’s at. Its leadership constantly evaluates corps and territorial levels. what it does in order to meet the needs of the Though no one declared a Damascus Road present age. It maintains the standards of the At the same time though, in celebrating the past, experience through the band’s visit, more past, both musical and spiritual, even as it tries the band must look to the future and seriously links had been forged in making the corps to find ways to make an elderly and somewhat consider its role in The Salvation Army today and The Salvation Army feel like an edifying, archaic medium relevant to the 21st century. when the medium, unlike in previous eras, is far encouraging, safe and even entertaining place from mainstream. The MSB has had its great for many who often feel like outsiders and losers In 2015, the MSB celebrates and honours the and glorious past; in 2015, it rejoices in it while in the lottery of life. Only God knows where past 125 years but prepares, in the spirit of its it seeks to confirm its place in the Army of the all that might lead. would have predecessors, to meet the challenges of the future. been pleased. He took a lot of convincing in the future.

In October 2014, The Herald Sun, Australia’s highest circulating newspaper, used the experience and views of Major Brendan Nottle, of the Melbourne Corps Project 614, in an editorial to emphasise the increasing incidence of methamphetamine use on the streets and the ‘ice’-fuelled violence it engenders. Nottle encounters it all too often in his inner-city work and ministry. Indeed, the Major himself has been punched and threatened with boiling coffee in his drop-in café, and Sunday meetings have been disrupted. On the day I bumped into him in Bourke Street, he was watching as three homeless young men he knew were bundled into a police paddy wagon. “Drug-related,” he surmised sadly. These are the people he works with, the same people, the Founder, General

SA BANDSMAN PAGE 7 COVER STORY

SAB: Thanks for agreeing to talk to SA could get to know us. I approached the first few Division. With the exception of my early Bandsman, Harold. Firstly congratulations rehearsals, especially with the faculty band years, and five years in New York City as an on your new position as Territorial Music and chorus, with some apprehension, knowing architecture student, I have lived and worked in Secretary! How are you finding the first few I was being carefully observed, but the daily the metropolitan Philadelphia area my entire weeks? interaction in some challenging music-making life. The majority of our families, including quickly brought us together. Following CMI, I my parents, our four daughters and four HB: My initial response would be overwhelmed, worked beside William Himes for several weeks grandchildren, all live close to our Philadelphia yet with so many things to learn, each day before his retirement. He was gracious with home. We home schooled our girls, in great part has become an adventure. Folks in the USA his sage advice, candour and confidence in my to extend the depth of family life, and we always Central Territory, and particularly the staff of ability to carry on in a position he obviously lived felt that our ministry at the Philadelphia Pioneer the Music and Gospel Arts Department, have and breathed for nearly four decades. Corps was something we were engaged in as a been more than welcoming to my wife Priscilla family ministry to that community. Our lives and and me as we transition from our many years in SAB: Prior to this you were the Divisional Music that of our family’s lives are deeply engrained in Philadelphia. Director for the Eastern Pennsylvania and Philadelphia. Delaware (Pendel) Division, a post you held for The Central Territory wisely timed the transition some 34 years. Was it a difficult decision to The other difficulty has been leaving my to ask the new Territorial Music Secretary to be leave a programme you had spent such a long students, both those of my Sunday School class, the guest for the Central Music Institute (CMI). time building up, and the place you called home and my instrumental students. I really enjoyed I was exposed from the start to delegates and for so long? interacting with them as friends. We became faculty from across the territory. For the first ‘family’ through our interactions over the few nights of CMI, Priscilla and I were given HB: The answer is yes and no. Yes, in the sense summer music camp and conservatory weeks, opportunity to share parts of our story so folks that I was born and raised in the great Pendel and then through the season in Pendel Brass and

SA BANDSMAN PAGE 8 COVER STORY

Singers. Their depth of support, readiness to semester. Several events, some years apart, my focus to stay the course, in the words of my be helpful and try new ideas will be missed, also reversed my direction from architecture to predecessor here in Chicago, “come what may.” represented in the loving relationship I had with music. In January of 1974, I received a request the other six members of the Pendel Music and to meet with Staff Bandmaster Derek Smith. SAB: Was a Territorial Music Secretary role Arts Department, most of whom, like myself, Until that previous spring, I had been sitting on something you had aspired to for some time, or were homegrown and nurtured as Salvationist the solo cornet bench of the Pendel Brass under did your desire to take on such a responsibility musicians in the Pendel Music programme. Bill Flinn, and Derek also knew me from the come about more recently? cornet technique class at Star Lake Musicamp. On the flip side, I have had a growing desire to Discovering I was in New York, he reached out HB: Honestly, in response I chuckle because lead a band that can meet on a more regular to me, and despite my resolve to focus on my the last place I ever wanted to work, even 35 basis, and a longing for fellowship with like- demanding architectural studies, I found the years ago, was on headquarters! By nature I minded Salvationist soldiers of my generation Wednesday afternoon staff band rehearsal the am an introvert, happy to be by myself leaning - both of which have been a challenge in my perfect three-hour respite from my studies. over a drawing board, or these days staring Pendel setting. In addition, I am excited to be into a computer screen writing music. Over the in a position now where I can come alongside Several years later I travelled with the Pendel years, though, God has moulded me to become other Divisional Music Directors - especially the Brass and Singers to a Youth Councils in a people person, who revels to be in the middle newer ones - to encourage them in their roles. I Hamilton, Canada. The irony of the occasion of the music, in rehearsals or teaching, honestly came to a point several years ago where I sensed was the Pendel Brass coming to minister to the less inclined to frequent committee meetings. I that God might be preparing me to minister in a youth of that division, but most of the Pendel receive so much from my students and players different setting. At every step of considering Brass found themselves at the altar really that feeds my spirit and my imagination. I’ve had and then accepting this position, the Holy Spirit consecrating their lives to Jesus Christ. to work very hard over the years to become what has confirmed over and over again that this I struggled with the direction of my life for I hopefully believe is an effective administrator, change for me is His divine appointment. several days after that weekend, with two years and in preparation for this new position learn to of architecture school to go, but the advent multi-task at a number of levels - that is in terms SAB: You actually first studied architecture, of my desire to pursue music composition of planning a sequence of events on the horizon, commencing studies back in 1973. How did coincides at that event back in the spring of or dealing with levels of leadership at the corps, your transition to a career in music occur? 1977. Writing music became my avocation, which divisional and territorial level. I pursued between semesters and any waking HB: Most of my early musical training came hours. I did not aspire to be a Territorial Music through the SA programmes in my home corps, Secretary, although I have applied to several Levittown in Pennsylvania, led by my father. My ‘ah-ha’ moment with music leadership as a of these positions and teaching jobs during my Eventually I became a member of the Pendel Salvationist came a year after having been asked tenure as a DMD. The DMD job gave me such Brass and Singers, under leader-role models like to conduct a rehearsal of a well-known corps an amazing ministry opportunity to develop Bandmaster Ken Strehle, Bill Flinn and later, Ivor band in need of a bandmaster. I was 21 years of my programme, curriculum, gave me time to and Janette Bosanko. My other exposures to SA age and engaged in a rigorous thesis project write and along the way develop strategies for music-making were an annual trek to Star Lake for my architectural studies, which forced my leadership development which now seem to be Musicamp, occasional touring music sections, stepping away from the NYSB. On that sleepless flowing into my new role as Territorial Music and my Dad taking me to New York Staff Band Wednesday night, God spoke to me, “This is Secretary. I am indebted to Ron Waiksnoris, the (NYSB) concerts. the way you will go. Take this band.” I struggled Territorial Music Secretary for the USA Eastern with God over this as the obstacles seemed Territory, who has shared liberally over the years As a high school student, I developed an interest insurmountable. I was younger than most of the from his experience, and allowed me to partner in art and architecture, in part because I was band members and rightly regarded as a novice. with him on committees for the planning for Star advised that I could never make a living as a Many, including my parents, would see this as Lake Musicamp, congresses and the bi-annual musician. I was an avid student of the trumpet/ too costly an investment of time. The exceptions Worship Arts Convocation, to say nothing of the cornet, and as there were very few resources were the Divisional Music Director (DMD) and experience gained in writing for the New York for small corps bands of limited ability, I began Corps Officer at the time, who sat in the chapel Staff Band. to make transcriptions and arrangements of pews and observed that rehearsal. Over the pieces for our small corps band, Levittown, and initial months, they stood by and believed in me. SAB: Replacing such an icon as William Himes eventually took leadership of the band. I obeyed the voice of God and led that corps O.F. must be a daunting task. Do you feel a band for nine years. During those years I learned sense of pressure in taking on such a position? In the autumn of 1973, I began my architecture much of what I now know about conducting. My studies at the prestigious Cooper Union in journey as leader of that group, although bumpy HB: In my farewell letter to the Pendel Brass Manhattan. I tried to commute for a few weeks and fraught with numerous errors in judgment, and Singers I wrote that I never imagined back to my corps band in Levittown, but had to prepared me well for 34 years as a DMD. My succeeding one of my heroes, William Himes. succumb to the demands of hours at a drawing principal task, as I see it now, is to awaken that My answer to your question would be at first, board with my architecture studies. Music was kind of passion for corps music leadership. It is a yes, this is a daunting task. The magnitude and set aside to see if we could get through that first divine calling, a scared treasure, which demands influence Bill has had in the US Central Territory

SA BANDSMAN PAGE 9 COVER STORY

and through his travels and music worldwide CAST (summer Creative Arts Service Team) and On: Music as a Corps Ministry, soon to be is unprecedented. What has relieved, in your summer leadership interns. completed under the sponsorship of the USA words, ‘the sense of pressure’ is Bill’s message Eastern Territory. This book is designed as a over the past farewell season that all his work SAB: You ran a highly successful programme in comprehensive resource for corps officers and would come to naught if the music and arts Pendel. Are there any particular elements from local music leaders, novice and experienced, initiatives of this territory would default by his that programme that you are looking to take and covers over 25 chapters: worship and music absence from leadership. In fact, he has been into your new role? school design, leadership of singing companies challenging folks that “the best days might be and songsters, youth, praise and brass bands, as ahead.” HB: I believe my primary value to the territory well as piano worship and conducting gesture is my experience as a DMD. We are already and expression. The release of this instructional What many people don’t realise is that Bill cultivating mentoring relationships between material in both hard copy and electronically and I have had a long history of interaction, DMDs and members of our department, will greatly aid music leadership development dating back to a Pendel Brass commission especially those new to the DMD role. To in our effort to provide live music in every corps for the US Bicentennial in 1975, The Spirit of support their work and fundraising I have by 2020. The backup reading for the Worship Freedom, and playing some of his Committee Curriculum - In One pieces on a NYSB album entitled New Accord is drawn from three chapters Frontier. I still have in my files rather in this resource. primitive score reductions I made of some of Bill’s pieces, as well as SAB: What is your vision for music correspondence from Bill responding making in the USA Central Territory? with encouragement to some of my early arrangements for brass band. HB: As Territorial Music and Gospel After sending him a few extended Arts Secretary I am taking an devotional works, Bill recommended active role in perpetuating live I would get more airplay if wrote music and gospel arts expressions something “light and cheery,” to which through our Live Music by 2020 I responded with the suite Steadfast initiative to include Salvation Army and Sure, which was recorded in short congregations, adult rehabilitation order by the Canadian Staff Band, centres, community and Kroc centres and soon played by bands around in order to advance the gospel of the world. I can’t count the number Jesus Christ. Secondly, we seek to of times I look back on pieces and nurture and develop music and arts see Bill’s influence on my writing. We leadership at the corps, regional, think alike in equating the success of divisional and territorial levels. a piece, not by a dazzle effect or big Already in motion in the Central ending, but rather on making it widely Territory are singing, brass, guitar accessible to the majority of our and keyboard initiatives. To make this musicians, and effectively marrying happen we are developing working the music with the message. relationships with our DMDs and worship consultants by visiting every In addition, I have admired from a distance Bill’s introduced to the DMDs the Music Arts division twice a year, as well as each division’s partnership with Peggy Thomas in developing Proficiency (M.A.P.) curriculum, a structured music camp annually. worship resources, such as the Hallelujah six-level scheme for the development of voice, Choruses, now used across the Army world. brass, percussion, piano, theory, and in the SAB: What do you see as some of the Along with Marty Thomas, I admire the ongoing future, guitar. We are piloting the curriculum in a challenges in your new role? efforts to improve these materials for praise few targeted corps in each division this coming and brass band instrumentalists as well as spring, and then in music camps this summer, HB: There are a number of wonderful corps singers. Bill, in retirement, will continue to assist aiming for a wider use for the fall of 2016. expressions in many corners of this territory, but us with the production of Hallelujah Choruses. Utilisation of the M.A.P. curriculum improves continued vitality is dependent on developing a I am comfortable with coming onboard with accountability for students, instructors and steady stream of emerging leaders. This means some of these projects, including the soon-to-be DMDS alike by providing an assessment tool equipping and empowering ensuing generations released worship committee curriculum, With for those already participating in Operation: of leaders, but not limiting the playing field to One Accord, which makes effective worship Piano-Player, the Guitar Initiative, music camps, just the most talented or ‘the top of the triangle’. planning accessible to corps of all sizes. corps and divisional conservatories, as well as To see real growth in our corps, we need to be On the other hand, I am bringing some After-School and Kroc music schools. creative and mission-minded in bringing more confidence in my experience from the USA East young people into a bigger pool, allowing to bear on initiatives like Bravo (solo and group The other project that is proving very helpful in them to embrace the future with their unique competitions), CMI (the territorial music camp), my role here is a book project The Beat Goes skills.

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SAB: With over 350 compositions and empowering as we work to build our team exchange, the ensemble develops a trust in my arrangements to your name you are obviously together. In place when I arrived was a full choice of repertoire and its interpretation, a well known as a composer. To what extent do itinerary of visits to divisions for this season, process that informs each weekly rehearsal. you anticipate your skills in this area being overseen by a fine band board. Additional At the moment, we are using Eric Ball’s festival utilised as Territorial Music Secretary? highlights will be the Sounds of the Seasons march Pledge for Service, certainly one of the festival held annually the Saturday after finest crafted marches in the repertoire, which HB: I will continue to support our publications, Thanksgiving, this year with Paul Woodward, gives our fine bass section a moment to shine. both editorially and as a writer. I actually enjoy who is co-principal trombone with Black Dyke However we realised after a few weeks’ work the challenge of creating functional pieces Band. In May, the CSB will join the other four that the featured chorus, Rescue the perishing, that bring instrumentalists at different levels North American staff bands for the North well represents the mission of The Salvation together, sometimes combining a community American Brass Celebration in Long Beach, Army in this 150th anniversary year. Another wind band with a brass band or allowing learners California, an event modelled after ISB120. item, Paul Sharman’s lovely movement using to sit beside more advanced players. I write the song This Day, can speak to the listener principally to fill a programme need in a group’s SAB: How would you describe your approach (and player alike) of living life without regrets. I repertoire or because I come across a splendid as a bandmaster and how do you think it will recently re-sequenced three classic SA pieces: lyric or concept that I think I can communicate impact the CSB? Crusaders (Dean Goffin), Daystar (Steadman- through music. I aspire to be a functional church Allen) and A Fanfare of Praise (Robert Redhead), musician, yet maintain a high standard of craft HB: As a bandmaster, I am a message-driven all based on the tune Ascalon (Fairest Lord and artistic integrity. programmer, which means I rarely use a piece Jesus), and brought segments of these pieces that doesn’t have something to say. The together as Ascalon Remix. There are moments SAB: A significant part of your job will involve ensemble is called to not only assimilate the of musical brilliance and reflection in the conducting the Chicago Staff Band. What are correct notes and style of a piece, but we pause exchange between the three pieces that afford your plans for the band and can you tell us to look at the piece’s real meaning and context. us a new take on that lovely hymn each time we about any particular projects the group will be When I begin to understand how and why a piece approach the piece. involved with in the next year or so? was put together, I can hardly wait to share what I am learning, get past the notes, and bring the SAB: Finally, what are you most looking forward HB: Bill Himes worked very hard in his final message alive. to about life in your new position? weeks to fill out the Chicago Staff Band (CSB), despite significant turnover. This has permitted Like a teacher in a classroom, I try to come up HB: It has been suggested that this time in the me to get right to work and explore a wide with a number of ways for a group to corporately Central Territory will put an exclamation on my range of repertoire and see where we can go learn a passage so that we have ownership years as a Salvationist music minister. My wife as a ministry team. With the turnover of 12 of the piece. I tend to borrow from choral Priscilla and I are enjoying the people, the depth new and returning members, we commenced conductors’ various rehearsal techniques. of ministry in many places, and particularly, having a period of prayer with one-on-one Sometimes this involves looking at the lyrics that we feel led of God in these endeavours. We prayer partners to build community in place and identifying a favourite phrase. The goal is to remain vigilant to see revival in our Army and of the devotional time. Members of the band involve every player, get them listening around anxious to see what marvellous things God will are finding the weekly relaxed conversation the ensemble and within the music itself. In do in the seasons to come.

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Col. Robert Redhead has given us many band all nature, but also as being from God and man. mind that conceived of the pattern of sunlight arrangements that are well known. Not only is Our 4th Doctrine is reflected in the third line of and moonlight initiating the process of day, he known for writing many classic Salvation the hymn, ‘O thou of God and man the Son.’ This night, years and seasons? Army brass band pieces, but he has also been acknowledgement leads us to worship with the invited to write the set test-piece for contests subsequent lines, ‘Thee will I cherish, Thee will I More than considering the formation of including National Brass Band Championships honour, Thou my soul’s glory, joy and crown.’ unimaginable mechanisms for keeping these of Great Britain and English National. Col. beautiful life-forms in motion, when was the Redhead’s compositions, built on hymns and Verses two and three explore in greater detail last time you asked, “Why?” Why did the Creator Christian music, possess an immense power for the contrasts of the beauty of creation in use his immense, unmeasurable capability for drawing the listener to devoted worship. This comparison with the beauty of the Creator engineering meadows, woodlands, sun, moon undoubtedly flows from his own deep, spiritual Himself. Musically, Colonel Redhead adds and stars? He did it for our enjoyment and to experience which he richly shares through his harmony to the melody in verse two as the reveal Himself to us as the giver of all perfect music. lyrics recall for us the result of the third day of gifts. creation: This is wonderfully illustrated in his composition, Verse four brings us to this moment of pure A Fanfare of Praise, No. 509 in the Festival Fair are the meadows, worship. Of pure acknowledgement of not only Series, and based on the hymn tune, Ascalon Fairer the woodlands, the giver of the beautiful gifts we see in our (2015 SATB No. 206), associated with the words Robed in the flow’ring bloom of spring; world all about us, but of the Giver of grace to Fairest Lord Jesus (2015 Salvation Army Jesus is fairer, and life eternal by becoming our defender, Songbook No. 77). As this tune and lyric are Jesus is purer, our rescuer, our liberator, our protector, our well known throughout the Christian church, A Who makes the woeful heart to sing. comforter, our deliverer, our Saviour - the only Fanfare of Praise can be used both in Salvation One who is worthy of our adoration. Musically, Army and outside performance venues. The When you picture the simplicity of a meadow, the energetic fourth verse, the fanfare section words to this hymn, written by Jesuit monks, with grasses and wild flowers blowing in the of this arrangement, concludes the piece. date to 1677 and were first published as wind, or picture the woodlands, with mosses on Schonster Herr Jesu in ‘Munster Gesangbuch,’ bark and trees budding out, our thoughts must Beautiful Saviour, a German Roman Catholic publication. It was be drawn to the Creator, the imagineer of such Lord of the nations, translated into English by Joseph Seiss in 1873. ecosystems. The author contrasts Jesus as more Son of God and Son of Man, The tune is from a folk song arranged by Richard beautiful and pure than this creation. Glory and honour, S. Willis. Praise, adoration, The full band joins in on verse three, as the lyrics Now and for evermore be thine. The lyric of this hymn describes Jesus as the contrast the marvellous lights which came into Lord of all nature, and compares Jesus, as being on day four of creation and the Creator, May we never look at a giant redwood tree the Creator, to His creation. Interestingly, the who shines brighter and purer. or delicate rose again without considering composer starts the piece off with the melody the beautiful Saviour who created them. sounding much like a Gregorian Chant, as it Fair is the sunshine, May we never again look at a sunset without may have been originally sung, here with the Fairer the moonlight, remembering the Lord of the Nations who trombone section playing against the haunting And all the twinkling starry host; designed the sun’s path. May we never again look open fifths in the cornets. Jesus shines brighter, at the beauty of creation without remembering Jesus shines purer to honour its Creator. Fairest Lord Jesus, Than all the angels Heaven can boast. Lord of all nature, As the programme note in the Festival Series O Thou of God and man the Son; In our human limitation, we simply look at these band journal states, ‘Fairest Lord Jesus, Lord of Thee will I cherish, vistas and exclaim, ‘beautiful’, ‘majestic’, ‘delicate’; all nature... an invitation for us to worship and Thee will I honor, we may even go so far as to notice the pattern in praise the Lord.’ Thou my soul’s glory, joy and crown. the flowers or the arrangement of the stars. But have we ever really looked at them and thought For an audio recording of A Fanfare of Praise, by Verse one begins with an acknowledgement of of the massive plan put into place to make this the , go to: Jesus as being the ‘fairest’ - most beautiful of all all work - all out of what was formless, empty http://www.salvoaudio.com/audio/music/ nature. He is proclaimed as not only the Lord of and dark? Have we ever given thought to the mus_2676.mp3

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Knud Larsen reports

Copenhagen Temple Band, under the Jacob Hansen (trombone) performed Fiesta Mackereth), and the whole theatre began leadership of Bandmaster Jens Schou (Peter Graham), and Jørn Schou Hansen to swing during Daniel (Barrie Gott), and Hansen) received a warm welcome from DC (euphonium) presented The Joyful Message the cornet solo, The Day of The Lord (Erik Major Alan Watters and Divisional Director (Erik Silverberg). Silfverberg). for Evangelism, Major Hanne Wahl (‘the local Dane’!) on Friday 9 October, at Manchester On Sunday morning, we shared in worship at Before the evening concert at Westholme Airport, for what would be a brief visit to the Failsworth Corps, where Jørn and Mark Schou School, the band enjoyed listening to the UK’s Central North Division. The itinerary Hansen played Ian Jones’ beautiful duet for large student choir under the leadership of for the tour included visits to several corps: euphonium and cornet, based on the song All Eric Millest. The band played a wide range of Crewe, Sale, Failsworth and Stockport, that I am. After the morning service, the band pieces in the concert, from A Celtic Blessing and Westholme School in Blackburn. We were able to minister at an open-air concert (Erik Silfverberg) and Rhapsody for Cornet met great hospitality and friendship at all in Merseyway, followed by ‘Songs of Praise’ at and Band (Ray Bowes) which was very well locations. In Crewe and Blackburn, we had the Stockport, where the corps songsters, under performed by Mark Schou Hansen, to New added pleasure of participating in receptions the leadership of Ian Malcolm, supported York, New York (arr. Goff Richards) and at the Town Hall with the local Mayors. the band. the march The Salvation Army (Sousa arr. Ray Steadman-Allen). The programme also On the Saturday at Sale Corps, we had an The band enjoyed some free time and included the congregational song Shine, inspiring rehearsal and concert together sightseeing on the Monday morning. In the Jesus, Shine, where all the students actively with the CNO Divisional Band (Bandmaster afternoon, we were very privileged to be joined in, and a beautiful solo medley by Brian Johnson). The massed band played able to give a concert for 500 students at Major John Wahl. Celebration (Leslie Condon), In the Love Westholme School in Blackburn. It was an of Jesus (Kenneth Downie) and Fanfare, amazing experience to see such a fantastic Safely home in Copenhagen, we are thankful Hymn and Thanksgiving (Dudley Bright). group of enthusiastic young people under the for the opportunities we had to minister to Both bands played a number of well-chosen guidance of the Head of Music (Bandmaster so many people, and full of gratitude to God pieces, which included three fine soloists: Eric Millest, Blackburn). The children really and to the many people who worked so hard cornestist Alister Campbell of CNO Divisional seemed to enjoy the music, which included to make the tour a great success and such a Band played Joyous Song (Richard Phillips), Amazing Race and Ein Feste Burg (Andrew wonderful experience for the band.

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Despite the diminishing number of brass players Saturday morning saw an early ‘rise and shine’ had learnt during the day. This meant various within the Dutch Territory, although this is a for the ASB, but not before the first participants conductors, solos and a percussion group, all tendency in most countries, there are various of the weekend had already come in for the doing extremely well seen the limited time of activities to promote brass music, one of them necessary cup of coffee. When everybody preparation! being a ‘Territorial Brass Weekend’. This means was present, there were about 100 brass a bi-annual get together in Lunteren, the same players, which was the capacity of the facility. Sunday meant not only a worship meeting, here beautiful spot in the midst of the forests, where A large brass band was formed for the first led by the Territorial Commander, Commissioner the annual music camp is held. In fact, many rehearsal that included music for players of Hans van Vliet, accompanied by a small years ago the march Motondo was written for a every level. The day was spent in massed band ensemble made up from ASB bandsmen, but scouting camp in the same environment. rehearsals and several workshops, including also more rehearsals. The last workshop of the analyses of Erik Leidzén’s On the way home, weekend, appropriately named ‘Brass now, but The first Territorial Brass Weekend (TBW) was in given by Staff Bandmaster Olaf Ritman, and what about brass in the future?’ was structured 2013, when Captains Martin and Leanne Cordner Martin Cordner’s Escape Velocity, by Heinrich as a large game, and presented with a good spirit were the special guests. For this year’s TBW, Schmidt, conducting (Olaf Ritman), solo playing although with serious discussions and ideas. The Heinrich Schmidt, Bandmaster of our ‘neighbour’, (Michel Rosenquist), playing techniques (Daniël activity would involve all 100 participants and the German Staff Band, since its inauguration in Rosenquist), percussion (Robbert Marseille) and a few theses were given in order to trigger the 1989, was to be the special guest. sectional rehearsals led by the ASB principals. various ideas and comments about brass music in our territory in the future. The outcome of this The weekend was roughly divided in three parts. Saturday night saw a 20-minute concert given activity was documented and taken to Territorial The Amsterdam Staff Band (ASB), the duty by the Territorial Youth Band (Bandmaster Headquarters in order to see if something band for this weekend, was already present on Daniël Rosenquist), followed by a 60-minute workable might come of it in the future. After Friday night for an extra rehearsal conducted concert given by the Amsterdam Staff this intriguing but valuable workshop, it was by Bandmaster Schmidt. Here some of the Band, here conducted by Heinrich Schmidt a matter of setting up the chairs for the final repertoire for the Saturday night concert was and Olaf Ritman. Items included the march rehearsal, again capably led by Heinrich Schmidt. rehearsed. The concert was to be given to the Shoeburyness (Eiliv Herikstad), The Day of participants of the weekend, and would include the Lord (Steven Ponsford), Horizons (Paul During the whole weekend the atmosphere Steven Ponsford’s The Day of the Lord, although Lovatt-Cooper), the first performance of the was exceptionally good and many chats and the music was only handed out during then! baritone solo Liebesleid (arr. Morrison), here discussions were held about Salvation Army During this rehearsal it soon became apparent skilfully played by Jorijn van Hese, Rhapsody brass music, in The Netherlands in particular. It that Heinrich Schmidt was the perfect choice for Cornet (Olaf Ritman), as well as various is something we consider valuable, important as guest; a very friendly and driven man, with a other pieces. In addition, the participants of and that gives The Salvation Army that unique great knowledge of brass music, background the various workshops got the opportunity to comradeship amongst bandsmen. Together we and stories behind it. deliver and present something of what they are one! Onwards to TBW 2017!

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Executive Editor Trevor Caffull

Managing Director Kenneth Crookston

Editor Andrew Wainwright

Editorial Email: [email protected]

Display and classified advertising, accounts and subscriptions Telephone: 01506 882985 Email: [email protected]

Typesetting and Artwork Andrew Wainwright

Regular Contributors and Consultants Lt. Col. Ramsay Caffull Merv Collins Stan Ewing Stuart Hall Torgny Hanson Derick Kane Steef Klepke Jr. Major John Martin Lt. Col. Don McDougald Malcolm Quinn Gary Rose John Sharman Dennis Bruce Sibley Niels Silfverberg William Sprokkereef Niels Silfverberg reports Earth, Wind and Fire song September (Maurice Tony Unwin White, Al McKay and Allee Willis), assisted by Philip Wainwright Major George Whittingham The German Staff Band (GSB) visited Berlin three GSB brass players. Kevin Whittingham on the first weekend in October, in connection Website: www.sabandsman.com with the campaign against human trafficking, The second half began with the GSB giving Find us on Facebook the major event being a joint concert with the a fine performance of The Day of the Lord Zeitzünder Choir - a top gospel choir from (Steven Ponsford) that really excited the Although we welcome unsolicited editorial contributions, photographs and artwork, we cannot accept responsibility Berlin, to be held at a huge and magnificent audience, which included territorial leaders for their return. The opinions contained in SA Bandsman are Baptist church centre in Schöneberg, southern Colonels Patrick and Anna-Dore Naud. The not necessarily a reflection of those held by the publisher or its editorial advisors. Neither does the publisher accept Berlin. Twice before, the two groups have had band’s principal trombone, Damian Lindegard, responsibility for claims made by those advertising in SA joint concerts, and the first rehearsal gave gave a delicate presentation of William Bandsman. promise of another fantastic concert. Himes’ solo Blessed Assurance, showing his Material in this publication may not be reproduced or excellence in a way that left everybody aware transmitted in any form without the Editor’s written permission. The large hall - very suitable for the concert - of his God-given talent. was almost packed as the two groups entered SA Bandsman is published on behalf of The Salvation Army by KGC Media Ltd. the stage, and the cheering after the opening The band gave a thrilling presentation of Address: 68 Westgate, Mid Calder, West Lothian, EH53 0SP. number, Lift up Your Voice (Stephen Bulla), War Cry (Dorothy Gates) before two songs clearly showed an excited audience. The by the chorus, accompanied by the band in

GSB’s contributions to the first part of the arrangements made for the occasion by the VERSE OF THE MONTH programme included a moving presentation band’s principal cornet Alexander Valerstein. ‘Speak to one another with of Now I belong to Jesus (Steven Ponsford), The final piece of the evening was the band psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in but also very a spirited rendition of Leonard giving the blessing in Ruben Schmidt’s The your heart to the Lord.’ Ballantine’s Wade in the Water, an energetic Lord is my Shepherd. The best compliment Ephesians 5:19 presentation of the Leslie Condon classic that could be paid to the band was that several Celebration and the horn solo Swiss Melodies people after this three-and-a-half hour concert (Eric Ball), performed by the band’s principal expressed that they had wanted to hear even horn player Ruben Schmidt. more from the band.

Representatives from The Salvation Army Sunday saw the band at Berlin Südwest Corps, presented the issue of human trafficking in a taking part in the morning meeting, and later way that touched everybody’s hearts, telling of on a march through the streets of southern the Army’s work among these people. Several Berlin, witnessing for Christ. An exciting and catchy gospel songs by the chorus led into a richly blessed weekend came to an end, as the finale of the first section with the great old band played by the corps building.

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