APRIL 20, 2024 – The New York Staff Band’s 137th Annual Festival was an unforgettable evening of musical excellence and spiritual celebration – a night to remember! The band was joined by guest soloist Caleb Hudson who proved to be a true virtuoso of his instrument.
The concert opened with “Wake the Dawn” by Joel Collier, a vibrant piece that set a dynamic tone to the festival, inviting the audience into a night dedicated to praising the Lord through music. The band continued on with “Uniquity” by Martin Cordner – a new energetic piece featuring the worship songs “Our God” by Chris Tomlin, and “There is None Like you” by Michael W. Smith.
Caleb Hudson’s first solo of the evening was “Grand Russian Fantasia” by Jules Levy which displayed his virtuosity as he navigated the intricate passages with effortless grace. His electric performance captivated the audience, each note resonating with the spirit of worship. As the evening progressed, Hudson’s stunning trumpet performances truly stole the show. Hudson’s versatility shone in “Where I Am” by Trevor Davis, where he displayed a more contemplative side. His delicate melodies and emotive phrasing invited the audience into a personal reflection, showing the depth of his artistry.
The band then played Harold Burgmayer’s “Renewal” before Lt. Colonel Kathleen Steele brought the devotional.
The highlight for the evening for the NYSB was its incredibly powerful performance of “Everywhere” by Marcus Venables. This piece features Andrew Maycock’s song which go to the words by General John Gowans found in the SA Song Book #29.
Have you ever stopped to think
How God loves you?
It sounds quite incredible, and yet it’s true.
Nothing on this earth or in the heavens above
Is as sure and certain as God’s love.
Oh, it’s as high as the sky and it’s as deep as the sea,
And it’s as wide as the world –
God’s love for you and for me.
We can’t escape His love,
Or take ourselves out of His care,
So where could we hide from His love?
His love is everywhere.
The concert’s second half was equally captivating. The band started the second half with a new fun piece by Marcus Venables entitled “Triumphant” which got everyone back in their seats. The evening also included a performance by a massed singing company from Spring Valley and New York Temple. Their harmonious voices, complemented by a touching solo from one of the younger members, added a beautiful dimension to the high-octane evening.
Caleb Hudson was back on with his own composition entitled “That They Will Know.” This was the third movement from a larger four movement work, and is telling the story of Elijah on Mt. Carmel. The title is Elijah’s prayer “Answer me, O Lord, that they will know that you are God!” Caleb then picked up the piccolo trumpet and flawlessly played Vivaldi’s RV 310 in G Major, arranged by Harold Burgmayer. His interpretation was fresh and dynamic, infusing the Baroque classic with new life. Hudson’s impeccable technique and expressive dynamics were on full display.
The band then played its final solo item entitled “Triquetra” by Peter Graham. This is a new piece that was written for Bandmaster Stephen Cobb and the International Staff Band in recognition of his 30 years of outstanding service as Bandmaster of the ISB. The title Triquetra (from the Latin triquetrus meaning three-corned symbol) is representative of the Christian Trinity and features the Tune Old Hundredth, also known as the Doxology:
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Caleb Hudson’s final solo was “Flourish” by Paul Sharman, and the night concluded with a stirring rendition of “Rock of Ages” sung by the Band Chorus.
Overall, the New York Staff Band and Caleb Hudson delivered a spectacular concert, with each performance offering a unique perspective on praising the Lord through music. The band’s exceptional playing and Hudson’s virtuosic solos left the audience inspired and longing for more, solidifying this festival as a truly memorable event.
