APRIL 11-13, 2025 – The New York Staff Band (NYSB) recently traveled to Ohio for a weekend of ministry, music, and fellowship in conjunction with the NEOSA Divisional Star Search event.
Band members traveled from several different airports, but upon landing in Akron, the group wasted no time, quickly boarding the bus to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. By 2:00 p.m., the whole group had arrived and promptly began unloading, setting up, and completing a full sound check in preparation for the evening’s performance.
Later that afternoon, the ensemble traveled to Akron Citadel, where members changed into uniform and shared a dinner together, wonderfully hosted by members of the Akron Citadel Corps. Afterward, the band returned to the church to take part in a donor reception alongside the Advisory Board.
The Friday night concert was both uplifting and impressive, featuring a dynamic selection of sacred and contemporary music. The program included Marcus Venables’ Triumphant and Holy Forever, along with the march Norwich Citadel and Philip Rayment’s new piece Stabilis et Certa. Audiences also enjoyed the spirited energy of High-Octane, New York, New York, and Again I Say Rejoice. The concert concluded with everyone assisting in tear-down before heading to the Holiday Inn for some well-earned rest.
Saturday morning, April 12, began with an early breakfast at 7:00 a.m. before the group departed for Hiram College. Arriving at 8:15 a.m., band members serving as adjudicators gathered for a quick meeting while performers prepared for the opening session in Hayden Auditorium. The Star Search competition officially kicked off at 10:00 a.m., featuring youth from across the division showcasing their talents in music, drama, and dance.
Lunch was provided in the campus dining hall, and the afternoon continued with more performances and the highly anticipated Bible Bowl Playoffs at 3:00 p.m. At 3:15 p.m., the NYSB had a quick sound check in the auditorium, preparing for their second concert of the weekend. The concert and Star Search Awards Ceremony began at 4:00 p.m., blending celebration with ministry. Musical highlights included Battle Belongs, I Can See Clearly Now, Get On Your Feet, and Come Sail Away, along with moving renditions of Trust and King of Kings.
Following another successful performance and a swift tear-down, the group was treated to a hearty dinner in the Alumni Heritage Room.
The weekend culminated on Sunday morning with a worship service at Cleveland West Park Corps. After breakfast, the group arrived at the corps and began with preliminary music before the 11:00 a.m. worship service. The service included a devotional by Lt. Colonel David B. Davis, praise and worship led by Devonte Thompson, and musical selections like Holy Forever, Here Again, and the timeless Hyfrydol – Love Divine as the congregational song. A mini concert followed the service, energizing the congregation with a few joyful and powerful selections before a wonderful, authentic Mediterranean lunch prepared by a local family in the corps. The band then departed for Cleveland Hopkins Airport, concluding a weekend filled with musical excellence, spiritual growth, and unforgettable memories.
Deep appreciation goes to the host venues, volunteers, and local leaders whose support and hospitality made the weekend possible. As the NYSB and youth participants return home, they do so with renewed inspiration and a shared sense of purpose to continue using their gifts to glorify God.
