NY Staff Band

Profile XXVII - The Music of Brian Bowen

The brass and vocal music of Brian Bowen was featured at Profile Night XXVII held on Friday night, October 14, 2005 at the Centennial Memorial Temple in New York City . Brian's musical work in the form of original works, arrangements and transcriptions published both within and outside of The Salvation Army numbers over 80 pieces, and a delightful sampling of varied items were chosen for performance on this evening.

The New York Staff Band played an integral part at the beginning of the program, presenting five items in succession. Two excellent marches, "The Southern Cross" and "The Warriors", began the program, with the second including a sparkling timbrel drill by the Greater New York Timbrelists. Michael R. Baker then joined the band to present the taxing cornet solo entitled "Flashback". This solo dates back to 1962 when it was first titled "In my Saviour's Care". In 1987 the solo was revised and the solo's retro air and variation form prompted the current, more succinct title. Michael's fine presentation prompted prolonged applause from an appreciative audience.

Following a presentation of the song "Whosoever Heareth" by the NYSB Chorus, the band presented an item written by Brian during the time that he served as NYSB Bandmaster (1986 - 1992). "Folk Heroes" was written for the 1992 NYSB tour of the United Kingdom and featured several British (and possibly one American) folk songs.

The Greater New York Youth Band (B/M Gordon Ward) was in fine form during the program and its presentations of the march "Sovereignty" (written for the 1987 NYSB centennial anniversary) and the transcription "Love Divine" (Stainer) were captivating. The band continues to maintain a high standard possibly equal to any Youth Band in the Salvation Army world.

The newly formed Greater New York Youth Chorus was impressive in its debut. Its contributions of "The Place of Healing" and "Rise up, Shine up" were enthusiastic and full of youthful vigor. Assistant Divisional Music Director Gavin Whitehouse's effervescent conducting style brought out some fine music from the young Greater New York vocalists.

Michael Baker's sensitive rendition of "Jesus Drew Near" accompanied by the Staff Band preceded a scripture reading and devotional thought by Brian Bowen. Brian linked the words of Psalm 23 and the tune "University" as he described the thought process involved relating to the creation of his meditation entitled "My Comfort and Strength". It is interesting to note that although this is one of Brian's best known works, he himself has conducted it only a few times during the past 40 years since its creation. On this evening, he conducted a stirring and emotive performance from the Staff Band, bringing the evening to a satisfying and exhilarating conclusion.

The 800 strong audience witnessed an evening of music featuring compositions and arrangements of a gifted musician. Brian Bowen's first published music for brass band (the hymn tune "I Love the Saviour's Name") appeared in 1962, and over the next 40 years his compositional output has been varied and always well-crafted. Brian continues to write music occasionally and we hope that this will continue for many years to come to the honor and glory of God.

Tom Scheibner

Assistant Territorial Music Secretary