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A full audience welcomed the Troops Band as they marched in, some wearing their famous helmets. They began the programme with a fanfare To a God Like This which involved trombones and cornets. Two of the trombone players, Alistair and Mark, Daniel on cornet and Neil on tenor horn are all from Birmingham Citadel.
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Bandmaster David Nicholson welcomed everyone before handing over to Lt Col David Phillips, the Troops Executive Officer, and Bandmaster John Mott who guided us through the programme.
The Singing Company, under the leadership of Jennie Blessett who had organised the evening, were also taking part. During the first part of the festival we heard various pieces from the band ranging from a traditional march, Winchester Revival, to the more contemporary Sweetest Name, which I really enjoyed.
The Singing Company performed to a very high standard and featured Alex White as soloist in O Happy Day. This required him to wander around the hall whilst he was singing, leaving us wondering where he had gone. Even though we couldn’t see him, we could still hear him, and he received enthusiastic applause from the congregation. There was also some vocal participation from the Troops Band who helped the Singing Company in the song Give It Away.
During the second half of the programme we were asked to think about what was happening in the world with its many problems, floods, and war situations. We were reminded that God gives each one of us his peace. The band played Shekinah reminding us of the words "Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me". This is a beautiful arrangement, and there was a lovely atmosphere in the hall in those moments.
The evening brought us much variety of music and song and I particularly enjoyed the Singing Company singing Lord I’m Available and On this Rock.
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The soloists for the evening from the band were Carl Saunders who played Clear Skies, and Martin Blessett who played Czardas - both were excellent. Towards the end of the evening the band played Victory (Lord of the Dance); lively music that had the congregation tapping their feet.
I have to say that it was lively and loud for most of the time, but I did really enjoy the benediction which brought to mind the words "The Lord bless thee and keep thee, the Lord make his face shine upon thee and give thee peace" - a lovely way to finish the evening.
Thank you Jennie for the idea, and Melvyn Owen who organised the event. It was well worth sitting in the hall on a very warm, humid evening, and a great way to spend a Saturday evening.
Words: Jean Harris
Pictures: Graham Daff
