“Concert of Praise” in Hythe

On Sunday, 8 October 2006, a packed hall enjoyed an exciting programme under the title “Concert of Praise” in preparation for the Hythe Band and Songsters upcoming tour of Estonia.

The Songsters opened up with Holy Ground, followed by If You Would Be Strong and Resound in Praise. The Band presented contrasting items, Tomado de la Mano and Songs of Testimony. This was followed by a cornet solo, People Need the Lord, given a polished performance by Wendy Margott, principal cornet of the Band for over 25 years. Wendy was then joined by her sister, Singing Company Leader Alyson Found, for a scintillating timbrel display backed by the march Emblem of the Army.

In the second half of the programme Terry Jackson was the featured soloist, presenting Share My Yoke as a prelude to the message by Captain Phil Layton. The band then premiered its major work, written by Songster Leader Wesley Carroll and entitled Just a Piece of Music?. The theme is one of Wesley's own, having been written some 15 years ago for use with the familiar words “Gentle Jesus, meek and mild”. Wesley has crafted the music into one continuous work with four parts: “A Child's Prayer”, “Doubts and Fears”, “Rebellion”, and “Acceptance”. The Songsters then brought the evening to a close with Total Praise.

The concert also served as a “thank-you” to the volunteers who collect for the Salvation Army's Annual Appeal and also to the sponsors of the trip to Estonia.