For a Salvation Army band, Christmas time is by far the busiest time of year. In addition to providing accompaniment to worship in the regular weekly services the band, whether large or small, can also be found in the city centre, supermarket or garden centre playing the familiar melodies associated with the Christmas story.
Perhaps less well known is the fact that most Salvation Army bands undertake a demanding mid-week programme of concerts and services in churches, care homes and hospitals also. This collection of pieces serves to make a balanced and interesting programme in its own right and at the same time represents the spectrum of styles and types of music that go to make up the repertoire for the many different settings a Salvation Army band is called to minister in.
This recording draws on the work of a number of international traditions, international composers, the work of established names of the brass band fraternity and some younger writers making their recording debut, making it something of a unique compilation.
Through the dedication of the volunteer bandsmen and the creativity of the composers and arrangers; €˜this wonderful story so old, but so new' is proclaimed in new and exciting ways each and every Christmas.
