Massachusetts Music & Gospel Arts Department

Eastern Territorial Songsters At Historical Park Street Church

2008-03-05T07:40:00.000-08:00

Sunday, February 24th – It was a morning made for singing – a crystal-clear, nippy, sun-drenched New England morning. And beckoning from a corner of the Boston Common rose the graceful spire of Park Street Church. The spire itself is a song in architecture; and it was a beacon to the Eastern Territorial Songsters.

What an appropriate – almost hallowed – venue for the Songsters was this 199 year-old place of worship! It was here that “America” (My Country ‘tis of Thee) was first sung; it was Park Street’s organist, Lowell Mason, who wrote “Nearer My God to Thee” and “Joy to the World,” and it was from here that America’s oldest radio ministry – begun in 1923 – carried the message of those songs to the far corners of our country.

And on a personal and more contemporary note, the appropriateness of The Salvation Army Songsters’ presence was underscored by the fact that the Senior Minister of Park Street Church, Dr. Gorgon P. Hugenberger, had heard Christ’s call at The Army’s Camp Wonderland.
So on this morning, with Songster Leader William Rollins to guide them, the Songsters took their places to raise hearts and voices in His praise. Accompanying them at the piano was Christiane Russell.

With “There is a Redeemer," the Songsters opened the service with a core affirmation of why we had all gathered that morning. Then, following the strong message of that hymn, was a gorgeous rendering of Mozart’s version of the 13th century adoration poem “Ave Verum.”
After the invocation and the exchange of Peace greetings among the worshipers, the Songsters filled the sun-flooded church first with the beautiful “In Jesus’ Name” and then with the powerful and soaring “The Majesty and Glory of Your Name.”

At the beginning of the services, the Division Commander, Major William A. Bode, thanked the leadership of Park Street Church for the privileged invitation extended to The Salvation Army’s Songsters for them to join with the membership in giving praise and glory to God. He expressed the hope that the Songsters’ ministry of spreading the Gospel message through song would touch the hearts of all those who were present and send them home with a smile.
The final two songs of the morning’s services certainly did just that!

From this writer’s conversation with many of those who attended the services, the Songsters’ moving rendition of “Somebody Prayed for Me” brought forth a tear to the eye and a catch in the throat – it was so deeply and so personally moving in the way the Songsters shared their passion with the congregation.

Finally, after the closing blessing, the Songsters quickly broke into “Singing in the Heavenly Choir.” It was a delight to see the worshipers suddenly stop gathering their coats and break into rhythmic clapping to the beat of this rousing expression of the Christian joy that’s found in praising God through song – praising Him here and in the world to come. When the Songsters came to the last singing of the chorus, Songster Leader Rollins launched them into it with an energetic double-armed victory pump that brought everyone to their feet – and, as Major Bode had hoped, sent them home with a broad smile.

Needless to say, there was a prolonged standing ovation. Once again, from this writer’s own experience and from speaking with other individuals affiliated in some way with The Salvation Army – officers, soldiers, lay employees – we all quietly shared the same statement: “Don’t they make you feel proud to be part of The Army!”

--Thomas Langdon
Director of Community Relations & Development

Massachusetts Division

"WITH A VOICE OF SINGING"

2008-03-05T07:21:00.000-08:00

With a Voice of Singing was the theme that encompassed a weekend in which the Eastern Territorial Songsters visited the Massachusetts Division to minister the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Ministry through vocal music was the goal behind the formation of this group and it was evident that this was the case throughout the weekend. The goal of the weekend ultimately was to minister the Gospel, but also to allow the delegates of this event to realize what they can do to enhance the worship at their corps using their voice and simple vocal techniques.
The Songsters arrived in Boston on the evening of Wednesday, February 20th, for two days of vocal rehearsal and preparation before the weekend. This group only meets four times a year, so practice when they are together is important to prepare them for their ministry. Not only did these extra days help them prepare for the weekend ahead, but it also kept them ahead of a sizeable snowstorm in Boston and the northeast on Friday. The Lord is awesome! He is always in control, even well in advance!

A united session started Saturday morning off in which delegates got their first taste of the Songsters in two songs, Singing in the Heavenly Choir and Ev’ry Time I Feel the Spirit. These songs made me want to get up and stomp my feet right from the start of the day. This was only a taste of what we would hear from the Songsters the rest of the day and certainly got us off to a great start.

Following these toe-tappers we heard from several people in the division sharing why they like to sing which was followed by a sing-along with B/M Anne Langille. This session was concluded with a rendition of the theme for the weekend With a Voice of Singing in which the delegates joined with the Songsters to practice for their combined performance in the Festival of Song later in the evening.

The afternoon was filled with vocal seminars taught by members of the Songsters. The sessions included Getting Boys to Sing with Major Stephen Ditmer, Success with Girls Voices with Lieutenant Patricia Wood, Confidence with Simple Vocal Technique with YP B/M David Cornish, Getting Beyond Vocal Challenges with B/M Erik Jones and My Congregational Singing with S/L William L. Rollins. These sessions provided information on how to enhance the worship experience at your corps by using simple and practical techniques that will bring out the best in any group.

After a spectacular evening meal provided by the Boston Central Hispanic Corps, the Songsters joined with local corps vocal groups for the Festival of Song. Starting off the program was a rousing performance of I Feel Like Praising Him followed by a lovely rendition of In Jesus Name by the Territorial Songsters. This was a highlight of the evening for me. The sensitivity and presentation of this was a real tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Songsters and the expertise and sensitivity of S/L William Rollins. The first contributor from the Massachusetts Division that evening was the South End Youth Chorus performing You are the Living Word and New Season. It was good to see the youth of the division participating and lifting up their voices to God! This was followed by the ETS Dineros, a male quartet in the style of a gospel quartet. These four gentlemen offered up performances of Jesus Loves Me and When We All Get Together. You got a taste of the real technique here from the highest of tenor to the lowest of bass voices. What a treat! S/L William Rollins got the toes tapping again with a good old fashioned sing-a-long followed by the Songsters singing Song for a Prodigal as their offering while others gave monetarily to the Lord during the offertory. The Roxbury Songsters proved to all that you are never too old to sing or dance as they offered their renditions of Lord I Lift Up Your Name and To God Be the Glory.

The only group to sing acapella for the evening was the Quincy Band Chorus singing two old time favorites My Jesus I Love Thee and White as Snow. In the final portion of the festival, the Songsters brought their last two planned items of the evening with Let Us Break Bread sung by the men and a soulful version of the Hallelujah Chorus entitled Hallelujah which again got many dancing for the Lord!

All voices united for the finale of the evening With a Voice of Singing. There is nothing like the sound of 120 people singing to the Lord all at the same time. What a fitting end for an evening of song!

Of course, no concert is complete without an encore. The Songsters without much coaxing allowed us to once again enjoy the rousing Singing in the Heavenly Choir before heading out into the cold wintery night. We certainly went out with a song in our hearts singing joy to our Father and Lord Jesus Christ.

While most of us went home and to our own corps on Sunday, the Songsters had one more early-morning stop to make at the famous Park Street Church in Boston, where they participated in two worship services using their gifts to enhance the worship of that church.
After a long four days of hard work, some had a long trip home and others not. However, the one thing that remained here in Boston was the Spirit from the ministry of the Songsters over the weekend. What a wonderful time of ministry in song and praise to our Father and Lord Jesus Christ who has blessed us with the talents exhibited this weekend. We will be singing these songs in our hearts for many days to come. Thank you Eastern Territorial Songsters for what you have brought us. It will not soon be forgotten.

-- Rick Castillo, Jr
Quincy Corps
Massachusetts Division

Massachusetts Youth March in 2008 Tournament of Roses Parade

2008-01-04T06:02:00.000-08:00

(Pictured..USA East Delegates)

January 1, 2008.......the 119th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade stepped off with excitement.....continuing the tradition of The Salvation Army's participation with brass band and timbrel brigade. Youth from all Territitories in the United States, Canada, and Bermuda came together to witness of the continued love of God through the medium of music.

Two of our Massachusetts youth representated us well as they were viewed on national telecasts of the parade. Marching proudly, we had Josiah Bote of the Haverhill Corps and Courtney Carter of the Milford Corps. Massachusetts has been sending young representative musicians for more than 8 years.

THE WORDS OF JOSIAH BOTE (HAVERHILL CORPS)

"This last week was an awesome experience and I really had a good time. We visited many places like Disneyland, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Knock's Berry Farm, and Pasadina, and everything went very well. The parade was good too. It wasn't as tiring as I thought it was going to be considering that we had only 4 hours of sleep the night before. It seemed shourter because of the crowds cheering. I was just enjoying every moment of it. I met a lot of people and made many friends from all over the country and also from the Canada & Bermuda Territory. It was very wam too. It felt like New England in the late spring, but when I got out back at Logan Airport, it was a different story - back to the real winter. I want to thank you for giving me this chance of a lifetime to go and represent our division."

THE WORDS OF COURTNEY CARTER (MILFORD CORPS)

"I had an amazing time, I don't even know what words to use to describe the time that I had. I made SO many NEW friends from all over the USA and Canada. I even met the DYS from Bermuda, her name was Vanessa. It was so good to be able to march around the streets of Pasadena and be amazed at how many people actually clap and scream and yell for The Salvation Army. Being a part of the parade and history is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Josiah and I didn't want to come back home. When we got to the LAX airport we both looked at each other and said 'Do you just wanna stay here and not go back home?' But we knew it was time to go back home to the cold and snowy weather. to be around other Christians and worshiping God is the best thing ever. Also, to be able to use our talents that God has given us to spread his word to the whole entire world is just unbelievable. It was truly and experience of a lifetime. The weather was beautiful, but also the new Christian people we met were truly of God. we all had our different ways of worshiping God but we also had a lot of FUN doing it as well. On Sunday, we got to participate in the church service in Torrence, California and that was amazing. When we marched around the Angel Stadium in California, we even had fun...although we were marching for hours at a time. I just want to thank the Music Department, DHQ, and THQ for allowing me to go on the trip and to everyone else that was involved, THANK YOU VERY MUCH. God bless.

The Stars Are In Massachusetts - Save The Date

2008-01-03T08:54:00.001-08:00

Calling All Brass Players....This Is for You!!!!!

2008-01-02T11:12:00.001-08:00

Pendel Music Forces 2008 Visit Massachusett

2007-12-28T19:52:00.000-08:00

Vocal Seminar & Festival with Eastern Territorial Songsters

2007-12-28T19:21:00.000-08:00

BEARCROFT'S AT QUINCY MASS

2007-04-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

COME

ENJOY

THE

MUSICAL

FESTIVITY!!!

YOUTH ARTS MINISTRY VISUAL ARTS TROUPE

2007-02-27T10:43:00.000-08:00

Inspired by this year’s theme for Youth Councils, one of our YAM Visual Arts Troupe members has written this poem. As you read it, consider John 10:14b……."I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” There are times that we may feel invisible to God because of the challenges that we have to face, but be encouraged, we are known and loved by God. He will take care of us.

INVISIBLE
By Beth Huff

I feel so invisible, so lost in the world around me.
As you pass by without even a glance in my direction.
Too many times I wonder why I continue to go unseen.
Is it me, am I too ugly, too pretty, too short, too tall?
No, perhaps I am too skinny, too fat, too quiet, too loud.
Do I wear the wrong kind of clothes, am I too rich or poor?
What is it about me that disgust you so much?
Is it something I have done, have I offended you in some way?

I feel so invisible, so lost in the world around me.
As I walk down the halls of my church, my school,
I feel completely and utterly alone, as if I were a ghost.
How can you not see the pain, the anger, the fear in me?
Is it that you choose not to see, or are you just blind?
Each day I cry out louder and louder, yet I remain unheard.
Will anyone see, will anyone hear, will anyone choose to care?
How much longer can I last, how much longer can I wait?

I feel so invisible, so lost in the world around me.
As I walk into my house, into my apartment,
I feel transparent, as if I were nothing but a breeze.
Unless of course you had a bad day, then you decide
To take it out on me, barking orders at me.
Not even asking me about my day, or how I am feeling.
Why is it that you don’t see me, unless I accidentally forgot
To bring out the trash, do the dishes, or clean my room?

I feel so invisible, so lost in the world around me.
As I walk into my room I whisper a prayer to God.
Father, where are you, why do you allow me to feel this way?
Why is it that no one cares, why doesn’t anyone love me?
How is it that no one can see the brokenness inside me?
All I want is a shoulder to cry on, arms to hold me.
Someone to share all my joys, all my sorrows, all my burdens.
Someone who loves me just the way I am, is that to much to ask for?

The Massachusetts Youth Arts Ministry Visual Arts Troupe work hard at creating images that will inspire, heal, and witness through the awesome power of God. Under the leadership of Julie Baker and Kelly Flaherty, the young people have created the above image that our Division will use for this year’s Youth Councils. Congratulations to Beth Huff, LaToya Durham, Samantha Scharn, Amanda Dixon, Amber Anderson, Sophia Vannavilay, and Asha Waterhouse.

Massachusetts YAM Visual Arts Poetry Moment

2006-12-12T07:38:00.000-08:00

The Massachusets Division's Youth Arts Ministry Visual Arts Team members have created these original poems as part of their ministry journey. They were first shared in public at Youth Councils, May 2006. God bless them as the Holy Spirit minister's to their hearts and the share their witness through the creative and poetic word.

"Too Late"
By Kelly Flaherty
Athol Corps

Holding on to the existence that you know you’re:
Blind to the truth
Naive to the core
People are reaching out to you
SCREAMING to be helped
To be saved
But you turn your back
You put yourself first
Ignoring the call placed on you
Hiding behind others
Hoping they’ll do YOUR job
You live in the background
Doing just enough
Un-aware that you’ve been caught
That they see right through you
Belief is not enough!
You must lose your life to gain it!
You must throw away your fears
Your insecurities
Your selfishness
Step out of that box and put others before yourself
Look at the world around you and see that
It needs TRUTH
It needs LOVE
IT NEEDS YOU TO DO SOMETHING
…Anything…
Before it’s too late

(No Title)
By LaToya Durham
Lawrence Corps

Jesus, King of kings
Lord of lords
How we all look forward to seeing you
Feeling your presence
Concern of who we may be if we
have not yet turned to you
Needing you deeply
Still not giving in
A crisis has occurred
Then we see you, Jesus
We turn to you because we need things
Save a loved one or a friend
We don’t seek for ourselves and well being
We as a people are made selfishly
But you Lord gave your life for me

"Desperate Cry"
By Jessica Smialek
Athol Corps

Lost, crying, yelling for you.
O Lord where have you gone?
Have I lost you
Are you in the shadows of my past
Is it too late for me?
…But Lord, the things I’ve done!
The things I’ve given up on!
…I don’t understand, how
Can you help me?
I’m drowning in my sorrow,
Feeling sorry for myself…
…But Lord! My pain, my sin my doubt…
You will vanish it all?
…Of course I no longer want this burden
…But God! I’m sick of waiting for my life to change
…yes, I trust you! But I’m scared—scared of letting go
And not deserving this peace you offer
…Yes I love you!
…Yes I want help!
But how do I let it all go?

To you god I lift my desperate voice,
Unlock these chains I carry
Forgive what I have become
And the things I’ve done
Make me a true disciple
Save this sinner before you Lord
So I may have the peace you offer
Amen

"Forever Changing"
By Marcus Rivera
Waltham Corps

The world as we know it. His hands over us, constantly perfecting man’s perversion. Violent gales indicate emergency reform; whereas gentle breezes remind us how much God cares for detail.

Are we to forget former failures into the winds of God’s wisdom? Rather, should be build atop the new foundation graced upon us through Jesus? The tears of loss will form clay from the dust. I will be made new – the Lord’s Masterpiece – and from this inadequance shall rise the glory of the Father. Out of the rubble emerge the resources needed to complete His work.
-This is who I am

IT'S A NEW SEASON - FALL 2006

2006-12-11T12:01:00.000-08:00

YOUTH ARTS MINISITRY
Excitement is in the air as the Massachusetts Division’s Youth Arts Ministry has begun it’s 2006-2007 season. Fifty young people auditioned. All components of YAM have grown tremendously due to the increased membership. The spirit of the near 85 young people indicates we are in for a thrilling year of witnessing through the ‘arts.” Let’s keep our young people in prayer as they develop their gifts and grow spiritually. YAM is looking forward to ministry at the Lowell Corps in April 2007 and at Youth Councils in May 2007.

MASS BRASS – Massachusetts Divisional Band
Our Divisional Band has seen significant growth this program year with the interest of new players. Having two rehearsals, so far this season, the group’s ability is lifted and their contribution to corps and divisional ministry will bless the hearts of all. Mass Brass is looking forward to ministry for the Waltham Corps in April 2007 and sharing with the Quincy Corps’ Music Forces Annual Spring Festival in May. Special guests for this event will be Lt. Colonel Norman Bearcroft (renowned composer, conductor) and Major Kathleen Bearcroft (historian).

ROXBURY CORPS HARVEST CELEBRATION
The Roxbury Corps’ annual Harvest Celebration surpassed previous years with an atmosphere of jubilation in the house of God. The world renowned New Sounds for Christ (a gospel ministry of the Salvation Army’s Harlem Temple Corps), resounded in praise with a Saturday evening festival and contributions to Sunday’s morning worship and afternoon Harvest Celebration. The harvest of talents that were shared, witnessed of the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the sustaining power of the Holy Spirit.

YOUTH PRAISE
Our monthly “contemporary” youth service continues to thrive in meeting a worship need for the youth of the division. We strive to be relevant in ministry elements, including song selection, participants, speakers, etc… All youth are encouraged to bring all their friends with them to experience this unique worship environment, trusting that they will seek a personal encounter with God. We meet one Sunday evening each month at 5:30pm. Check with your corps officer for the exact dates.

December 3rd’s gathering saw history in the making as we gathered for a Prayer Journey. Multiple prayer stations were constructed though out the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd floors of Divisional Headquarters. All of your human senses were engaged through interactive prayer experiences. To get a glimpse of the Prayer Journey, click on the following link and view the pictures.

Youth Praise Prayer Journey Dec 2006

Youth Arts Ministry Auditions 06-07 Season

2006-08-15T13:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 23, 2006 at Camp Wonderland (1-4pm)

MASS BRASS Trip to NEOSA Division - 2006

2006-06-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

Notes by Major Frederick N. Hagglund

After 7 months of preparation, planning and excellent leadership by Bandmaster William Rollins, the Massachusetts Brass began an epic Band trip on Friday May 26th. 18 Members of the Band “boarded the bus” at DHQ at 7am and later on at 8:30am, 4 members of the Band from the western part of the division met the bus at the Springfield Corps. There was an incredible spirit of optimism and expectation of the Ministry Opportunity that awaited us! As the scenery changed from state to state, there was some concern that we would not arrive in time for our first venue at the Cleveland Harbor Light Corps. (We were to arrive by 6pm to setup and begin our concert at 7:30pm) Lt Colonels LaMarr, Divisional Leaders for the NEOSA division arrived at 7pm, and looked for the Mass Brass! We arrived after 7pm, changed into our uniforms, unpacked our instruments and percussion, and were ready to go at 7:30pm! We began the concert with the March “Floods of Joy” and shared Hymns, Sing-a-Longs, instrumental solos by Allison Cornish, Rick Castillo and David Childs, a Devotional by Major Herbert Thomas®, and a classic selection, “Songs in the Heart”. The Concert ended with the playing of the classic march “Tremont”. After the concert, we boarded our bus and traveled to Akron Ohio for the night. After a very long day of travel, the members of Band began to relax and finally sleep!

Saturday May 27th started out much more relaxed with an 11:20am departure for Canton Ohio Corps where we were served an excellent lunch, and had time for practice before joining with the NEOSA Brass under the leadership of Bandmaster Eric Dina to rehearse two massed band items. After another excellent meal prepared by the Canton Ohio Corps, we and the NEOSA Brass and Timbrels traveled to the 1st Church of the Nazarene in Canton and shared the blessing of our gift of music with people from Canton and the NEOSA Division. Musical items by the NEOSA Brass included “Trinity”, “Marching Onward”, “I’m in His hands” and “Here they Come”. The NEOSA Timbrels presented very precise and skilled work accompanied by the NEOSA Brass. Their hard work was evident as they did drills on “Marching Onward” and”Salvation’s Song”. The NEOSA Chorus presented four selections – “Draw me Nearer”, “Psalm 150”, “Wondrous Cross” and “At Calvary” The Massachusetts Brass began our evening “work” with “I’ll Fly Away” and the march “Joyful Heart”. Later in the Evening, “Kinshasa IV” was introduced by Bandmaster William Rollins who recently returned from a Mission Trip to Africa and shared some of His personal experiences and some facts about the Kinshasa IV Corps which is located in Zambia. Massachusetts Brass also played two devotional items, “Lord Lift Me Up” and a wonderful selection by Dorothy Gates, “Breathe”, that was followed by a Devotional message by Captain Robert Bender. For the finale of the concert, the MASS and NEOSA Brass played “Happiness is the Lord” conducted by Bandmaster Eric Dina and “On the King’s Highway” conducted by Bandmaster William Rollins.

Sunday morning brought another bus ride from Canton to Lakeside Ohio. What a surprise it was for us as we saw the charm and beauty of this classic “Victorian” resort community! We arrived at the Hoover Auditorium and the Worship Service began with “Lord lift me up” and “Singing Glory” by the Massachusetts Brass. Our worship service was led by the Reverend Barbara Stephens-Rich, the Director of Religion and Education and Lt. Colonel/Dr. Clarence Kinnett ® who represented the Salvation Army’s connections and links with the Lakeside community. We were blessed to have Commissioners’ Raymond and Merlyn Cooper® with us from the Southern Territory and they sang duets and shared their witness with us. Commissioner Raymond Cooper® brought the Message. The Hymns were accompanied by the Massachusetts Brass and the guest organist, James Chidester. What a glorious sound was produced by the Brass and the Pipe Organ! The Massachusetts Brass played “Above All” for the Offertory. Over 1,000 people were in attendance for this wonderful worship experience that we were privileged to be part of for the Glory, Honour and Praise of God!

Our Sunday Dinner took place in one of the Classic Victorian Hotels with Salvationists and their families that do and have lived and spent time at Lakeside over the years. Lt. Colonel Kinnett hosted the event and we listened to the sharing of memories from people in attendance. After a time to stroll around and soak up the beauty of the day and the scenery along the Lake Erie shore, it was time to report to the Band Shell for our final performance of the Band Trip. At 3:15pm, we began with the March “Floods of Joy” followed by “I’ll Fly Away” and the March “Kinshasa IV”. Bandsman Alison Cornish played an Eb Horn Solo “Since Jesus came into my Heart”. Bandsman Rick Castillo played the Cornet Solo “Shine”. Both Alison and her Father David Cornish shared their witness with us and Anne Langille sang a beautiful solo “You raise me up” and was accompanied on the chorus by the members of the Massachusetts Brass. The Brass played “Happiness is the Lord” and the audience was invited to sing along to the various choruses that are part of this piece. Bandmaster William Rollins conducted a Sing-a-Long of choruses from the old to the new that are part of Salvation Army History to the great excitement of the audience. To prepare our hearts for the Devotion “I Remember” by Major Scott Kelly (Corps Officer Salem North Shore Corps) and a member of the Tuba Section, David Childs played “Nothing but thy blood” on his Euphonium. As a farewell to the tour and the day, the classic marches “On the Kings Highway” and “Tremont” were presented. We boarded our bus and traveled to East Cleveland to stay the night and on Monday the 29th we began our return trip to Massachusetts.

It was one of the “special times” that I and others will also remember! Our thanks to Bandmaster Eric Dina and Lt. Colonels LaMarr and all that provided us good support and hospitality!

MUSIC MENTOR RECITAL IN FALL RIVER

2006-04-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

"I will praise the name of God with a song and will magnify Him with Thanksgiving" (Psalm 69:30). This was the premis for a wonderful Winter Musical Recital at the Fall River Corps. With the guidance of the magnificent volunteer teachers, the students shared their gifts of music with those in attendance. The performances included the following: Cameron Medeiros (guitar), Tracey Medeiros (guitar), Desiree Carcieri (piano), Ethel Glover (piano), Nyasia Allemao (guitar), Kayara Allemao (guitar), Latisha Foster (piano), Jeffrey Ramsden (drums), Vanessa Demello (guitar), Cruz Chi (drums), Katelyn Eddy (guitar & piano), Christopher Litchfield, (drums), Tianna Dormeus (flute), Christopher Carcieri (guitar), Darlene Higgins (drums), and Enrique Brown (guitar).

The teachers are Anne Langille (piano, drums), Ed Howard (piano), and Elliot Higgins (guitar). We are grateful to them for giving of their time and talents as music mentors in Fall River.

Special thanks goes out to Anne Langille (Assistant Music & Gospel Arts Director) for her love, patience, time, and willing spirit! Thanks to Ed Howard for his musical expertise, kindness and time! To Majors Donald & June Carver (Corps Commanding officers), we give a heart felt thank you for supporting musical development in their corps, for giving love and guidance. And a BIG THANKS to the parents for allowing us to work with your children.

KIDS.....we didn't forget you. The kids have worked hard with their practicing. You guys are the BEST!!!!!. Keep playing for Jesus.

ONLINE PIANO INSTRUCTION AT PITTSFIELD

2006-04-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

The Pittsfield Corps' Kids Musical Feast Program has partnered with WorkshopLive to provide online assisted piano instruction to children in their after school program. This is a pilot program which integrates video based piano lessons via a high speed internet connection with a live piano teacherss. The computer lab in the corps has piano keyboard on which students can learn and progress at their individual speed, with the guidance of the Kids' Musical Feast instructors. B/M Bill Rollins, the Massachusetts State Director of Music and Gospel Arts, overseas the program for the corps and gives instruction along with interns from Berkshire Community College.

"It is wonderful that WorkshopLive has incorporated it more than 20 years of music education experience to create this online platform for instruction. It will help to bring music instruction into every home that has high speek internect access and musical instruments." WorkshopLive seeks to deliver the first truly interactive learning experience of its type catered to the preferences and abilities of each student. Check out WorkshopLive for yourself (www.workshoplive.com)

Below are a few of our new students who have begun the program and are eagerly coming three times each week to develop their pianistic knowledge and skills.

NEW SOUNDS FOR CHRIST 30TH ANNIVERSARY

2006-04-12T08:57:00.000-07:00

HARLEM TEMPLE BAND W/CHARLES BAKER

2006-04-12T07:26:00.000-07:00

CREATIVE WRITINGS - YAM Visual Arts Troupe

2006-04-11T11:56:00.000-07:00

The members of the YAM Visual Arts Troupe have given consent to share their writings which were read at a recent visit to the Chelsea/East Boston Corps.

TOO LATE
By Kelly Flaherty
Athol Corps

Holding on to the existence that you know
You’re:
         Blind to the truth
     Naive to the core
People are reaching out to you
SCREAMING to be helped
     To be saved
But you turn your back
You put yourself first
Ignoring the call placed on you
Hiding behind others
     Hoping they’ll do YOUR job
You live in the background
     Doing just enough
          Un-aware that you’ve been caught
               That they see right through you
Belief is not enough!
You must lose your life to gain it!
You must throw away your fears
     Your insecurities
     Your selfishness
Step out of that box and put others before yourself.
Look at the world around you and see that
     It needs TRUTH
     It needs LOVE
IT NEEDS YOU TO DO SOMETHING
…..Anything…..
          Before it’s too late

UNTITLED
By LaToya Durham
Lawrence Corps

Jesus, King of kings
Lord of lords
How we all look forward to seeing you
Feeling your presence
Concern of who we may be if we
Have not yet turned to you
Needing you deeply
Still not giving in
A crisis has occurred
Then we see you, Jesus
We turn to you because we need things
Save a loved one or a friend
We don’t seek for ourselves and well being
We as a people are made selfishly
But you lord gave your life for me.

DESPERATE CRY
By Jessica Smialek
Athol Corps

Lost, crying, yelling for you.
O Lord where have you gone?
Have I lost you
Are you in the shadows of my Past
Is it too late for me?
…..But Lord, the things I’ve done!
The things I’ve given up on.
…..I don’t understand how can you help me?
I’m drowning in my sorrow, feeling sorry for myself…..
…..But Lord!  My pain, my sin, my doubt…..
You will vanish it all?
…..Of Course I no longer want this burden.
…..But God!  I’m sick of waiting for my life to change.
…..yes, I trust you!  But I’m scared – Scared of letting go and not deserving this peace you offer.
…..Yes I love you!
…..Yes I want help!
But how do I let it all go?

To you God I lift my desperate voice, unlock these Chains I carry
Forgive what I have become and the thing’s I’ve done.
Make me a true disciple.
Save this sinner before you Lord
So I may have the peace you offer.
Amen

FOREVER CHANGING
By Marcus Rivera
Waltham Corps

     The world as we know it.  His hand’s over us, constantly perfecting man’s perversion.  Violent gales indicate emergency reform; whereas gentle breezes remind us how much God cares for detail.

     Are we to forget forever failures into the winds of God’s wisdom?  Rather, should we build atop the new foundation graced upon us through Jesus?  The tears of loss will form clay from the dust.  I will be made new – The Lord’s Masterpiece – and from this inadequacies shall rise the glory of the Father.  Out of the rubble emerge the resources needed to complete His work.

This is who I am.

QUINCY TEMPLE CORPS BAND IN CONCERT

2006-04-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

A DAY AT CHELSEA/EAST BOSTON

2006-04-11T07:49:00.000-07:00

The blessings of the Lord was in abundance for a packed church in Chelsea, Massachusetts. On Saturday evening April 8th, The Salvation Army in Chelsea, Mass was full with standing room only, sharing in an evangelisting meeting lead by the Youth Arts Ministry. Varied arts forms were presented by the youth from varied corps in Massachusetts in high form. Timbrels, dance, mime, worship team, visual arts, technical arts and drama were key features in the course of the evening. We are blessed to have such talented youth who love to give their witness through the arts.

MASSACHUSETTS 2006 STAR SEARCH

2006-04-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS to all of our Massachusetts participants for an exciting day of praising the Lord for the gifts he has given. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide their young lives as they learn to witness about Jesus Chrit's Love for all people through their art form.

DRAMA SOLOISTS: Sarah George - Lynn, Ashlee Talbot, Lynn, Daruenie Andujar - Montachusett, Neil Welds - South End

SNARE DRUM SOLOISTS: Cruz Chi - Fall River, Danielle Soar - Montachusett, Charles Collins - Montachusett, Paul Leslie - Athol

PIANO SOLOISTS: Jacob Hevenor - Lowell, Sarah Peabody - Montachusett, Elijah Morgan - New Bedford, Gloria Patten - Lynn, Ashley Morgan - New Bedford

YOUTH CHORUS: South End

TIMBRELS: Roxbury

SACRED DANCE: Athol, Roxbury Chelsea/E. Boston, South End

SINGING COMPANY: Lynn, North Shore

Y.P. BAND: Lynn, North Shore

BRASS SOLOISTS: Sarah George - Lynn, Bethany Kelly, North Shore, Eddie George - Lynn, Jennifer Kelly - North Shore, Alison Piercey - Chelsea/E. Boston, Elijah Langille - Plymouth

VOCAL SOLOISTS: Nazia Perry-Womack - South End, Ahjah Gage - South End, Lindsey Ross - Lowell, Sarah George - Lynn, Abryanna Mills - North Shore, Bethany Kelly - North Shore, Sabrina Houghton - Athol, Erin OShea - Athol, Wonni In - Lowell, Sophia Vannavilay - Lowell, Eddie George - Lynn, Chellsee Novack - Lynn, Angel Rodriguez - Lynn, Ashlee Talbot - Lynn, Daruenie Andujar - Montachusett, Samantha Bagley - North Shore, Jennifer Kelly - North Shore, Alison Piercey - Chelsea/E. Boston, Sheila MacIntyre - North Shore, Gloria Patten - Lynn

We want to give a whole hearted thank you to the volunteer adjudicators.........

Charlene Dyous - Hyannis

Bob Baker - Hanover

Patrick Reilly - Yarmouth Port

Lisa Taillacq - The Winsor School (Boston)

Ed Howard - Fall River

Robin Quin - Ashburnham

Patricia Abreu - Somerville

Dorian Milteer - Fort Lee, NJ

Elliot Higgins - Fall RiveR

REPRESENTING MASSACHUSETTS AT THE TERRITORIAL FINALS...............

Vocal Soloists

Level #1 - Bethany Kelly (North Shore)

Level #2 - Ashlee Talbot (Lynn)

Level #3 - Alison Piercey (Chelsea/E. Boston)

Level #4 - Gloria Patten (Lynn)

Sacred Dance

Level A - Athol Corps

Level B - South End Corps

Timbrel Brigade

Level A - Roxbury Corps

Youth Chorus

South End Corps

Youth Band

North Shore Corps

Drama Soloists

Level #1 - Sarah George (Lynn)

Level #2 - Daruenie Andujar (Montachusett)

Level #4 - Neil Welds (South End)

Snare Drum Soloists

Level #1 - Cruz Chi (Fall River)

Level #2 - Danielle Soar (Montachusett)

Level #3 - Paul Leslie (Athol)

Brass Soloists

Level #1 - Sarah George (Lynn)

Level #2 - Jennifer Kelly (North Shore)

Level #3 - Elijah Langille (Plymouth)

Piano Soloists

Level #1 - Jacob Hevenor (Lowell)

Level #2 - Elijah Morgan (New Bedford)

Level #3 - Ashley Morgan (New Bedford)

Drama Troupe

Montachusett Corps

Singing Company

Lynn Corps

******Territorial Star Search Finals will take place during Commissioning Weekend on Saturday, June 10, 2006.

Greenfield Corps Singing Company

2006-03-15T10:08:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the developing Singing Company at the Greenfield Corps. We look forward to hear more about them in the future.

2006 Gospel Arts Camp at Camp Wonderland

2006-03-13T12:09:00.000-08:00

2006 Music Conservatory at Camp Wonderland

2006-02-28T06:40:00.000-08:00

SODERKARENS MUSIKKAR

2006-02-28T06:18:00.000-08:00