Christmas music: the International Staff Band and International Staff Songsters
Christmas music: the International Staff Band and International Staff Songsters
18 December 2018
The International Staff Songsters' 2018 Christmas album is a compilation of carols including songs old and new, joyous and thoughtful.
The International Staff Band of The Salvation Army and Black Dyke Band: christmas collection
Reviewed by Andrew Blyth
One of the aims of music ministry within The Salvation Army is to provide music that seeks to be a connection and invitation to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
For many Salvationist musicians it also provides a source of strength and encouragement so that one can communicate who we are and what we believe in.
Christmas is one such time, when The Salvation Army band is seen in shopping centres and on street corners playing carols and Christmas songs and giving a reminder to the public of the significance of such a season.
Originally, Salvation Army bands used “Carol Cards” with well-known carols, but it was not until 1964 that the Army published its first carol book entitled Christmas Praise, which included 78 carols and Christmas songs.
In 1994, New Christmas Praise was published, which included 115 carols and Christmas songs. Now, 24 years on, The Salvation Army has published a new book entitled Christmas Collection.
This new edition has 143 carols and Christmas songs, which include all the standard favourites along with many updated arrangements and popular Christmas repertoire.
This exciting venture has been boosted by the support of The International Staff Band and Black Dyke Band who have graciously agreed to record some of the material contained within the book.
All of these arrangements can be played with just a quartet, or a full ensemble as presented on this recording. If you enjoy playing all types of Christmas music, this collection will meet your musical needs.
Christmas Collection, both the CD and music, is available from Salvationist Supplies in Sydney (1800 634 209) and Salvation Army Supplies in Melbourne (1800 100 018).
The international staff songsters of the salvation army: when love was born
By Dorothy Nancekievell
Over the years, I have found myself looking forward to the season of advent, as it encourages us to reflect on God’s promise to take us from darkness to light, through the birth of his son, Jesus.
When Love Was Born, the title track of this album, sums up the sense of wonder of that first Christmas and the love that is available for all who choose to receive it.
This compilation of carols includes songs old and new, joyous and thoughtful. I hope that you will enjoy listening to, and singing along with, the International Staff Songsters throughout the festive period and that those actions will enhance your own Christmas experience.
When Love Was Born is available from Salvationist Supplies in Sydney (1800 634 209) and Salvation Army Supplies in Melbourne (1800 100 018).
*Dorothy Nancekievell is the International Staff Songster Leader.
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