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“Give unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s, and unto God the things which are God’s.” Matthew 23:21. These words of Jesus could very well have been the theme for this musical evening as it was ‘The Proms with a difference’. We were constantly reminded, not only of our national heritage, but also of our Christian loyalties.
Nearly 300 people filled the hall as family, friends and neighbours, the majority holding national flags, gathered together. This was a fitting reward for the organisers.
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Birmingham Citadel Band gave us a rousing start with the march Under Two Flags. The national and Salvation Army flags were prominently displayed on the multimedia screen and in evidence around the hall.
The vocal soloist was Songster Stephanie Lamplough. Stephanie is a professional soprano and teacher whose voice is well known and admired by many. She sang two operatic arias by Puccini and Strauss and later two lighter songs by Lehar and Herbert, with impeccable style.
The other guest for the evening was the compere, Captain Marion Parker, who is the corps officer at Rugby. Marion is a former Birmingham songster, a musician and a qualified music teacher. This was evident in the way she presented the items giving us short, interesting, biographical notes on each composer.
Further contributions by the band included Army of the Brave written over 80 years ago by George Marshall; Sounds of Britain and Land of Song, both by Norman Bearcroft; a brass band arrangement by Dr Dennis Wright of the well-known British Sea Songs by Sir Henry Wood which had some surprising deviations from the orchestral score, eg the ‘tear-jerking’ cello solo was given to the principal cornet. The Floral Dance reminded us of our culture but, unfortunately, did not include the Morris Dancers!
There was plenty of opportunity for singing and flag-waving with Thine is the Glory, I Vow to Thee, My Country and Jerusalem. The highlight for some would have been Land of Hope and Glory. Stephanie, draped in the Union Jack, sang the verses and the chorus was sung heartily by a standing congregation accompanied by a sea of flag waving enthusiasm.
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A timely Bible reading and thought from Captain Parker reminded us of our Christian priorities and loyalties and left us with plenty food for thought.
The final item was a stirring rendition of the march Celebration when the band flag was presented to us by the band colour sergeant who marched in from the back of the hall to the final refrain ‘We’ll keep the old flag flying’. Indeed a moving and fitting climax to a unique, well-planned and well-presented evening.
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Congratulations to all involved in any way.
It has been said that Birmingham Citadel can’t ‘let its hair down’. That can never be said again!
Words: John Hynd
Pictures: Gordon McKee
