This concert was held to help raise money for the Salvation Army's work in tackling human trafficking and slavery.

'St Francis' (Himes) made for a stirring opening, with the cornets and trombones lined up behind the rest of the band, with the songsters producing a nicely balanced sound in 'Be still and know that I am God' before Major Richard Mingay made the introductions.

Fine work

Kevin Norbury's 'The Proclaimers' featured fine work from the lower band, with euphonium runs and the melody 'Banners and Bonnets' from the basses. The song's reference to 'the legion of the lost' was especially appropriate on this occasion.

Four Hymn also took part, with the songs 'Alpha and Omega' and 'Home', before Major Caroline Mingay introduced Ella’s, a refuge for those fleeing slavery, with a longer-term aftercare centre opening shortly.

The songsters continued with 'Spirit of God' and 'It is You'. Harriet Stewart then shone in the poignant song 'Who is there to love me?', looking back to the Salvation Army's fight to have the age of consent raised.

The band's major work was 'Variations on Was Lebet' (Andrew Wainwright), bringing out the contrasts between the sections well, with crisp playing in the fugato passages and a resounding finish when the melody is heard in its entirety.

'We Are Not Ashamed' and 'Amazing God' from the songsters preceded Kevin Norbury's 'Hallelujah Parade', introduced by a quintet processing from the back of the hall in New Orleans style.

The band's major work was 'Variations on Was Lebet' (Andrew Wainwright), bringing out the contrasts between the sections well, with crisp playing in the fugato passages and a resounding finish when the melody is heard in its entirety.

Impact

Four Hymn's 'Chain-breaker' led into the appeal, during which the band played `God of Justice'. The songster's presentation of 'Praise the Name of the Lord' made quite an impact as the music rose to a climax, suddenly dropping to a quiet unison before building up again.

After a scripture reading from Major Heather Grinstead,'Your Grace still Amazes Me' led into the finale. 

Arranged by Paul Sharman this featured the Joy Webb songs 'The First Step' and 'There will be God', Four Hymn, band and songsters combining in an effective end to the evening.

To top things off, the band played 'That's the Spirit' as people left the hall.

Peter Bale