BCB hosted it’s annual rehearsal with a number of visitors joining with us for the first time.  It was also good to see some familiar faces.

 

The Bandmaster put the augmented band through it’s paces with a variety of repertoire with “something for everyone”.  Playing music such as the old march “The Redcliffe” and Eric Ball’s classic “Song of Courage” to more contemporary arrangements by Stephen Bulla (“Praise Him”) and Steven Ponsford (“Immanuel”) it was great to renew musical acquaintances with former members! 

 

One current member of BCB also got his wish as the Bandmaster succumbed and featured William Himes’ “Collage of Contemporary Gospel Songs” after numerous requests!  2nd Cornet player Phil Harris seemed to be a happy man!

 

On the following Sunday those present at the open rehearsal were invited to play with the band during the evening service at Birmingham Citadel.  The band featured three pieces from the Thursday rehearsal but finished with the Erik Silfverberg march “Fill the World with Glory” after we had learned about the sudden passing of Erik during the week following a rehearsal.  This was a tribute and “thank you for the music” to Erik Silfverberg from BCB - a legendary composer whose influence will live on in the vast legacy of music.