YP Band and Singing Company Visit to Worcester Citadel - 28 January 2001

A series of monthly Gospel Praise Meetings, aimed at attracting non-Salvationists, was kicked off at Worcester Corps in fine style by the Young People's Band and Singing Company.

Although a little depleted in numbers, both sections were able to present the gospel in a bright, clear manner that the full hall appreciated. Lydia Stone-Fewings illustrated in her testimony that she is not only a talented cellist, but also has a clear and honest way of expressing her views.

Certain sections of the YP Band should be particularly congratulated, as more senior members of their section were unable to be with them. They nevertheless acquitted themselves well, particularly in the accompaniment of the last song, Richard Phillips' upbeat version of the Welsh hymn tune, Rachie. This arrangement would tax a number of senior bands, let alone a YP section, and hearing the cracking pace at which the introduction started, and which was then enthusiastically embraced by the congregation, a number of contesting bands would have struggled!

The meeting was under the direction of Robert O'Connor.  He proved particularly innovative in his Bible thought with the invitation for those present to produce the ringing sound on their mobile telephones. The cacophony of sound which was produced caused the writer total amazement that so many people would have mobile phones with them in the meeting - and that an even greater number would actually have them turned on. A further interesting fact was that we were told of one Citadel bandsman who has the opening bars of The Present Age on his mobile. It is rumoured, however, that as he can't play it on his instrument, the mobile was his only option!

Without doubt, the folk at Worcester looked upon the evening as a great success, and there were indeed members of the congregation who would not normally have attended the traditional evening meeting. For the youngsters it was a good opportunity to renew friendships made at music schools and youth councils, whilst also being able to proclaim the gospel message in a way that young and old alike could appreciate.

Video

If you have any problems listening to the audio, please visit the 'Hear our Music' page.  Here you will find instructions and a link to contact us for further information.