Most of the seats at St Margaret’s of Antioch Church, at Hasbury, Halesowen were taken as the band opened their programme on Saturday evening. From what I observed most of the audience were taken aback by the vibrancy and energy of the band's music. I guess that many of those present had never been quite so close to such a magnificent and rich source of live music.
The occasion was one of several events taking place during the year as part of the church’s centenary celebrations. This had been the bands only visit to St Margaret’s Church to date. The warm welcome afforded however was excellent and one wonders if this event might be repeated in time.
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The well balanced programme included a good variety of musical styles with solos from Gavin Lamplough and Neil Blessett and an item featuring the trombone section. There was something for everyone from traditional brass band music to swing and classical excerpts. I am certain that those present were suitably amazed and I believe uplifted by the band's playing. One of my friends enquired if we always sang at 'that pace' following the first of the two congregational songs. He appeared visibly out of breath. I smiled and replied appropriately.
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The audience reacted quite visibly on recognising several of the better known melodies incorporated into the arrangements. All in all, the band made a firm impact on the good folk of Halesowen. In his concluding comments the Rev Rob Hall made reference to William Booth’s desire to take the message of God’s salvation to those considered undesirable and shunned by the established Church. A retiring collection was taken for the work of The Salvation Army.
Words: Rob Stokes
Pictures: Gordon McKee