The weekend of December 13-15, 2025, featured a series of performances and worship services by the New York Staff Band (NYSB) across various locations in New York City. The events included concerts, community outreach, and church services, all aimed at spreading the joy of the Christmas season through music and worship.
Friday, December 13: West Side Presbyterian Church Concert with the New Jersey Wind Symphony and Tuba Soloist, Kyle Turner
The weekend began with an evening concert at West Side Presbyterian Church. The NYSB arrived at 6:30 PM and set up in DePhilips Hall, located in the basement of the church for a quick rehearsal prior to the first half of the concert which was provided by the wonderful New Jersey Wind Symphony under the direction of Dr. Christian Wilhjelm and Tubist, Kyle Tuner who magnificently presented the Martin Ellerby Tuba Concerto. The atmosphere was lively as the band prepared for their portion of the concert as part of their ongoing efforts to share the Christmas spirit with the local community.
The concert featured a dynamic program with a mix of festive and reflective pieces. The NYSB opened with Fantasy of Joy by Fredrick Schjelderup, followed by a beautiful rendition of Greensleeves arranged by Eric Dina. Other highlights included Hope Alive by Marcus Venables, the moving Euphonium Solo by Aaron VanderWeele, O Holy Night arranged by Keith Wilkinson, and Yuletide Treasure by Marcus Venables. The concert concluded with a joyful performance of Christmas Joy by Erik Leidzen, leaving the audience uplifted and in the Christmas spirit.
Saturday, December 14: Times Square Concert
On Saturday, the NYSB moved to Times Square, one of the most iconic locations in New York City. They arrived at the famous TKTS Red Stairs to set up for two outdoor concerts. The performance space provided a unique opportunity to engage with both locals and tourists in the bustling heart of Manhattan even in the bitter cold!
The first concert began promptly at 5:00 PM, with the band dressed in uniform pants, black NYSB jackets, and SA beanie hats, perfect for the chilly winter evening. The NYSB played a variety of holiday favorites, including Fantasy of Joy and Hope Alive. The crowd was visibly energized, and many stopped to watch and listen as the band played a lively set, including Glory in the Highest by Marcus Venables.
After a brief 45-minute break, the band began their second concert at 6:15 PM. This performance maintained the festive atmosphere, with the band continuing to play songs from their ABJ Christmas Favorites book, including Yuletide Treasure and Glory in the Highest. The concert ended at 7:00 PM, and the band proceeded with tear-down, concluding another successful day of public performances.
Sunday, December 15: Manhattan ARC Service
The final day of the weekend was dedicated to worship and fellowship in what is a long-standing tradition for The NYSB at the Manhattan Adult Rehabilitation Center.
The morning worship service started at 10:00 AM, led by Captain Daniel Gonzalez. The service included a selection of Christmas carols, including O Come All Ye Faithful and Silent Night. The congregation was invited to participate in the lighting of the Advent candles, marking the progression of the Advent season. Testimonies were shared by Major Josh Lyle, and a time of worship was led by Devonte Thompson.
The message was delivered by Lt. Colonel David B. Davis, who spoke on the biblical significance of the Christmas story, referencing Isaiah 35:4 and Matthew 1:18-25. The service closed with a final carol, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and the band performed Feliz Navidad as a joyful postlude, sending the congregation off with a festive spirit.
The NYSB’s performances over the weekend were a blend of musical excellence and meaningful worship. From the intimate setting of West Side Presbyterian Church to the lively atmosphere of Times Square and the heartfelt service at the Manhattan ARC, each event was a testament to the power of music in bringing people together during the holiday season. The weekend provided a wonderful opportunity for the NYSB to engage with the community, share the message of hope, and spread the joy of Christmas to all who attended.
