May 1, 2024 – One of the long-standing traditions of the New York Staff Band is visiting the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City, NY on Long Island for the annual Nassau County youth enrichment benefit concert. This is the 41st concert in its history, and it is always a highlight of the band’s season because of the beautiful setting and acoustics of this glorious cathedral.
The concert began with a pair of pieces from the New York Staff Band in “wake the dawn” written by Joel Collier and “Uniquity” by Martin Cordner. These items set the stage for a wonderful evening of music that was full of both excitement and inspiration. After being greeted by several dignitaries, the band was back in action with Marcus Venables’ piece, “Send Forth.”
One of the highlights of the last few years has been featuring Reina Jackson, a talented young vocalist from the Nassau County area, and tonight she was once again a featured soloist. She was exceptional and received a standing ovation for her contribution. The major work for the evening was “Everywhere” by Marcus Venables. The band was once again in exceptional form and gave a powerful and moving performance of this monumental work by Marcus.
Another hallmark of this program from the last few years has been featuring young people, and we were privileged to share the program with the combined Nassau County singing company led by Christopher Webster and the Westbury Corps Youth Band led by Albert Saintilus. The singing company performed “Sing to the Lord” by Gavin Whitehouse, while the Westbury Corps Youth Band joined forces with the NYSB on “Anthem of the Free” by Dean Goffin, “Glorify Your Name” by Dean Jones, and “Triumphant” by Marcus Venables. The highlight was having Albert Saintilus lead the combined band on “Anthem of the Free.” The band’s featured soloist for the evening was James Dorce on “This Is My Story” by Kristen Lundkvist.
Many thanks to the team in Nassau County for hosting another wonderful program for a great cause. It is always a privilege to take part and we look forward to returning next year.
