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Songs of Faith
Fanfare and Allegro on the DoxologyComposer Steve Kellner
The Doxology, set to the tune Old Hundredth, is used widely around the world by Christian denominations and is based on the short but powerful hymn of praise to the Triune God.
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;Praise Him, all creatures here below;Praise Him above, ye heav'nly host;Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.Amen.
The lyrics were written by Thomas Ken, an outspoken seventeenth century Anglican Bishop. Ken wrote many hymns and it was his desire that “Christians be allowed to express their praise to God without being limited only to the Psalmody and the Bible canticles. He was one of the first English writers to produce hymns that were not merely versifications of the Psalms.” It may be that “the doxology has done more to teach the doctrine of the Trinity than all the theological books ever written.”
The tune, Old Hundredth, was composed (or adapted) by Louis Bourgeois. In 1541, he was “given the responsibilities to provide the runes for the new metrical psalms” for the Reformed Reformation Movement. The first English words to which it was wedded were William Kethe's version of Psalm 100 (All People That on Earth Do Dwell) so the tune became known as “The Hundredth”. The word “Old” was added when a new version of the songbook published in 1696 (the first one being the Anglo-Genevan Psalter of 1551) to indicate that “the tune was the one in use in the previous Psalter.”
“I will praise Thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: And I will glorify Thy name forevermore.” -Psalm 86:12Prelude on 'Ascalon'Composer Geoffrey NobesThis prelude was written for the Band of the Free Evangelical Church of Geisweid in Germany. In 1973, Portsmouth Citadel Band encountered this band during their tour of Germany. The beautiful hymn tune Ascalon (also known as the Crusader's Hymn or St. Elizabeth) is heard in two complete statements with a free-flowing lyrical section followed by a contrasting section using phrases of the melody to build to a full final working of the hymn. These are the verses associated with the music:
Fairest Lord Jesus,Lord of all nature,O thou of God and man the Son;Thee will I cherish,Thee will I honour,Thou my soul’s glory, joy and crown.
Beautiful Saviour,Lord of the nations,Son of God and Son of Man,Glory and honour,Praise, adoration,Now and for evermore be thine.
“For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: All things were created by Him and for Him.” -Colossians 1:6Hymn Setting – Nicaea Composer William Himes Based on the 19th century melody of the same name by Dr. J.B. Dykes, this three-verse setting draws its inspiration from the familiar and majestic text of Reginald Heber:
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee.Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!
Holy, holy, holy! all the saints adore thee,Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea.Cherubim and seraphim, falling down before thee,Who was and is and evermore shall be.
Holy, Holy, Holy! though the darkness hide thee,Though the eye of sinful man thy glory may not see,Only thou art holy; there is none beside thee,Perfect in pow'r, in love, and purity.
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!All thy works shall praise thy name, in earth, and sky, and sea;Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!God in three Persons, blessed Trinity.
Reginald Heber was an English Anglican pastor who served in England and later in India with additional responsibilities for the island of Ceylon as well as all of Australia. After his sudden death due to sun stoke after preaching to a large, outdoor crowd about the evils of the caste system, his widow published this hymn among 56 others many of which are still sung today. The hymn was written specifically for Trinity Sunday (8 weeks after Easter) which reaffirms the doctrine of the triune Godhead. Though the word “trinity” is not found in the Scriptures, yet the truth of three Persons, equal and eternal with each other, is clearly taught throughout God's Word.
The tune, Nicaea, was named after the Council of Nicaea held in Asia Minor in 325 A.D., when the doctrine of the Trinity was examined and held to be a true and essential doctrine of the Christian faith. It was composed in 1861 specifically for the words penned by Reginald Heber.
“O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For He is our God; and we are the people of His pasture.” -Psalm 95:6-7Peace Like a RiverComposer Stephen Bulla Featuring the trombone section, this jazzy piece features the choruses I've got peace like a river and I've got a river of life flowing out of me.
I've got peace like a river (Cedarmont Kids)
I've got peace like a riverI've got peace like a riverI've got peace like a riverIn my soul (repeat)
I've got love like an oceanI've got love like an oceanI've got love like an oceanIn my soul (repeat)
I've got joy like a fountainI've got joy like a fountainI've got joy like a fountainIn my soul (repeat)
I've Got a River of life (Sunday School Singers)I've got a river of life flowing out of me!Makes the lame to walk, and the blind to see.Opens prison doors, sets the captives free!I've got a river of life flowing out of me!
“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'” -John 7:38Slane or Be Thou My Vision Traditional Irish Tune/Composer Isaac Smith The tune, “Slane” is a traditional Irish air and was originally used with secular text, “With My Love on the Road.” It's first association with this hymn text was in the Irish Church Hymnal of 1919. The tune is named for a hill, ten miles from Tara, in County Meath, where St. Patrick is said to have challenged King Loegair and the Druid priests by lighting the Paschal fire on Easter eve. Arranged for Joyous Brass, this is its premier performance.
Be Thou My Vision (8th Century anonymous Irish hymn; versified by Eleanor H. Hull; Translated by Mary E. Byrne)
Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;Naught be all else to me save that thou art.Thou my best thought by day and by night;Waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.
Be thou my wisdom, and thou my true Word;I ever with thee and thou with me, Lord.Thou my great Father, I thy dear child;Thou in me dwelling, with thee reconciled.
Be thou my breastplate, my sword for the fight;Be thou my dignity, thou my delight.Thou my soul's shelter, thou my high tow'r;Raise thou me Heav'nward, O Pow'r of my pow'r.
Riches I heed not, nor vain, empty praise;Thou mine inheritance, now and always.Thou and thou only, first in my heart,High King of Heaven, my treasure thou art.
High King of Heaven, my victory won,May I reach Heaven's joys, O bright Heav'ns Sun!Heart of my heart, whatever befall,Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.
May we as believers be characterized as people of vision - “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” -Hebrews 12:2
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. -Proverbs 29:18March Medley – Heavenward Composer William GordonA variety of songs are used in this up-tempo march medley, portraying the celebration of a life looking forward to an eternity in Heaven. The tunes used are: When we all get to Heaven, When the roll is called up yonder and We shall win.
When we all get to heaven (E.E. Hewitt, 1898)
1 Sing the wonderous love of Jesus;sing His mercy and His grace.In the mansions, bright and blessed,He'll prepare for us a place.
Refrain:When we all get to heaven,what a day of rejoicing that will be!When we all see Jesus,we'll sing and shout the victory!
When the roll is called up yonder (James Black, 1893)
1 When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound,and time shall be no more,and the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;When the saved of earth shall gatherover on the other shore,and the roll is called up yonder,I’ll be there.
Refrain:When the roll is called up yonder,When the roll is called up yonder,When the roll is called up yonder,When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.
We shall win (William Hodgson)
1. We’re a band that shall conquer the foe,If we fight in the strength of the King;With the sword of the Spirit we knowWe sinners to Jesus shall bring.
Refrain:I believe we shall win,If we fight in the strength of the King;I believe we shall win,If we fight in the strength of the King.
Song Stories:
When we all get to heaven: words by Eliza E. Hewitt. Published in Pentecostal Praises, 1898, and in Songs of Grace and Truth, 1899.
When the roll is called up yonder: words and melody by James M. Black (1856-1938). His accounting of writing this hymn:
“While a teach in the Sunday school and president of a young people's society, I one day met a girl, fourteen years old, poorly clad and a child of a drunkard. She accepted my invitation to attend the Sunday school and join the young people's society. One evening at a consecration meeting, when members answered the roll call by repeating Scripture texts, she failed to respond. I spoke of what a sad thing it would be when our names are called from the lamb's Book of Life, if one of us should be absent: And I said, 'O God, when my own name is called up yonder, may I be there to respond.' I longed for something suitable to sing just then, but I could find nothing in the books. We closed the service, and, on my way home I was still wishing that there might be a song that could be sung on such occasions. The thought came to me, 'Why don't you make it?' I dismissed the idea, thinking that I could never write such a hymn. When I reached my home, my wife saw that I was deeply troubled and questioned me, but I made no reply. Then the words in the first stanza came to me in full. In fifteen minutes more, I had composed the other two verses. Going to the piano, I played the music just as it found today in the hymnbooks, note for note, and I have never dared to change a single word or note of the music since.”
We Shall Win: Lyrics by William Hodgson. From The Companion to the Song Book of The Salvation Army (1989): William Hodgson was the son of a coal miner and was himself a coal miner first as a trapper boy and then as a miner (later known as 'The Blood-washed Collier'). After his conversion he became a Methodist local preacher. In 1879 he joined The Salvation Army and three days after meeting the Founder, William Booth, he was appointed as an officer (pastor) of a corps (church). He served in several corps as well as provincial centers. He contributed a number of songs to The War Cry, a Salvation Army magazine.
Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. -1 Corinthians 15: 51-52 ESVFestival Arrangement – Shine Down Composer Smiley, Gersmehl, & Farrell; Arranger Andrew BlythThis up-tempo song has been featured by the contemporary Christian artist Sandi Patti. It speaks of the real hope that Jesus can provide in the world today.
Shine Down (Billy Lee Smiley / Robert B. Farrell / Mark Stephen Gersmehl)
Shine down your light on meLet the people seeThat in your presence darkness fleesFather of light, shine down on me
Shine down your light on meLet the people seeThat in your presence darkness fleesFather of light, shine down on meFather of light, shine down on me
There's a land full of gloryIn a place where there is no nightAnd in that holy cityBurns the beacon of everlasting lightThe light that keeps reachingTo the people of every landA love that is longingTo fill the heart of every man
Shine down your light on meLet the people seeThat in your presence darkness fleesFather of light, shine down on me
Oh, shine down your light on meLet the people seeThat in your presence darkness fleesFather of light, shine down on meFather of light, shine down on me
“Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved!” -Psalm 80:7
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” -Matthew 5:16Meditation – There is a Fountain Composer Noel BrooksThis arrangement was written for The Salvation Army Canadian Staff Band's 50th Anniversary celebration in March 2019. This well-known hymn is presented in a meditative and patient setting featuring the tune 'Covenant'. The words to this hymn also fit the original melody that is introduced after the first chorus by the Flugel Horn. There are several quotes from the hymn 'I Know a Fount' where the band states "there's a wonder-working power in the blood of Calvary." This arrangement reminds the listener of the redeeming power of Christ's sacrifice, but also boldly proclaims, "I do believe, I will believe, that Jesus died for me."
There is a Fountain (William Cowper)
There is a fountain filled with bloodDrawn from Immanuel’s veins;And sinners, plunged beneath that flood,Lose all their guilty stains:
Refrain:
I do believe, I will believe,That Jesus died for me;And on the Cross He shed His Blood,And now He sets me free!
E’er since by faith I saw the streamThy flowing wounds supply,Redeeming love has been my theme,And shall be till I die.
In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem
for sin and uncleanness. -Zechariah 13:1
In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace. -Ephesians 1:7Tone Poem – ResurgamComposer Eric BallEric Ball’s Resurgam (1950) is a seminal tone poem for brass band, widely regarded as a masterpiece of the repertoire. The title translates from Latin as "I shall rise again". It was written for The Salvation Army and, although used as a major contest test piece, it has deep devotional roots, largely inspired by the composer’s personal reflections on death, conflict, and spiritual victory.
Here are the details, scriptural references, and thematic descriptions of the piece:
1. Scriptural Inspiration and TextThe work is prefaced by a quotation from The Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-3, found in the Apocrypha:
"The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be an affliction, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace."
2. Description and StructureResurgam is written in one continuous movement, characterized by a "relentless and restless" flow of tonality that depicts a journey from conflict to serene triumph.
Opening/Theme: The piece opens with a "faith" motif introduced by the lower band (bass end), characterized by a rising sixth.
The Conflict: The music contrasts calm, tranquil chorale sections with "stormy and turbulent" sections containing harsh, discordant sounds representing fear and death.
"Dies Irae" & "Exodus": The "death" theme in the work includes a reference to the "Dies Irae" and the "death" theme from an earlier tone poem by Ball, Exodus.
Structural Elements: The piece is noted for its "motivic" construction (rather than melodic), using a "sighing" tone and dramatic, silent bars that act as a "breath between sections".
Conclusion: The work does not end in a loud climax, but rather with a "life-affirming," very quiet, and peaceful statement of the opening theme, highlighting the "peace" of the righteous mentioned in the Apocrypha text.
3. Key Motifs and Musical Connections"The Awakeners" (1930s SA Anthem): Major melodic lines are adapted from The Salvation Army anthem The Awakeners, with the opening line "Awake thou that sleepest and arise from the dead".
"In the Secret of Thy Presence": The triumphant climax is derived from one of Ball's own choral songs, In the Secret of Thy Presence, which deals with prayerful devotion and eternal life.
4. Background ContextDedication: The work is dedicated to the memory of the composer’s sister-in-law, Elsa.
Theme of Hope: While it features intense moments of "fear and even hysteria," the overall message is one of optimism, hope, and the ultimate victory of life over death.
“For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” -1 Thessalonians 4:14-17Quick March – Jubilee!Composer Paul DruryA piece in the style of a circus march, written for the centenary celebrations of Edinburgh Gorgie Band in 1998. The march has since been featured extensively by the Household Troops Band. It contains the chorus of the song 'Be glad in the Lord', as well as the old testimony choruses, 'I love him better every day' and 'Bound for Canaan's shore'.
Be glad in the Lord
Refrain:
Rejoice, rejoice! Be glad in the Lord and rejoice!
I love him better every day
I love him better every day,I love him better every day,Close by his side, there I'll abide;I love him better every day.
Bound for Canaan's shore
Refrain:
I am bound for the promised land,I am bound for the promised land;oh, who will come and go with me?I am bound for the promised land.
Song Stories:
Be glad in the Lord: written by Mary Elizabeth Servoss. Mary was born in Schenectady, New York, in 1849. She cared for her disabled grandmother for 18 years while caring for her mother through a protracted illness and then her father until he died. She was a great admirer of Fanny Crosby who inspired her to write a number of songs. Mary died in Illinois in 1906.
I love him better every day: chorus lyrics by Sydney Cox. After immigrating to Canada in 1907, he was converted in the Central Methodist Church in Calgary. He immediately joined The Salvation Army and entered The Salvation Army's School for Officer Training in 1909. He served several years in Canada in various appointments (corps/church, divisional & territorial headquarters). He was the education director of Moody Bible Institute followed by serving in the USA Southern territory (education secretary, youth secretary and principal of the training school). In 1944 he became an independent evangelist, conducting campaigns throughout the US and Canada as well as teaching in colleges. This chorus was added to a song by Thoro Harris that addresses chronic grumblers and finding joy in faith.
Bound for Canaan's shore (i.e. On Jordan's stormy banks I stand): lyrics by Samuel Stennett. Dr. Samuel Stennett was born in Exeter, in 1727. He was converted and was baptized when young. He was a man of superior talents. He was proficient in Greek, Latin and had extensive knowledge of sacred literature.
In 1763, he was made a Doctor of Divinity by King's College, Aberdeen. He ministered to the Little Wild Street church as his father's assistant for ten years; and as its pastor for 37 years after his father's death. His father (Joseph Stennett), grandfather (Joseph Stennett), his great-grandfather (Edward Stennett), his brother (Joseph Stennett), and his son (Joseph) were all Baptist ministers. He was a hymn writer of note having written 39 hymns. Most of his works were reprinted in 1784 in three volumes including his two most popular hymns still in use: “Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned” and “On Jordan's Stormy Banks.” He died in 1795.
“Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous; and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.” -Psalm 32:11
“But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.” -Hebrews 11:16
Some information extracted from 101 Hymn Stories and 101 More Hymn Stories both by Kenneth W. Osbeck as well as the Companion to the Song Book of The Salvation Army compiled by Gordon Taylor.
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;Praise Him, all creatures here below;Praise Him above, ye heav'nly host;Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.Amen.
The lyrics were written by Thomas Ken, an outspoken seventeenth century Anglican Bishop. Ken wrote many hymns and it was his desire that “Christians be allowed to express their praise to God without being limited only to the Psalmody and the Bible canticles. He was one of the first English writers to produce hymns that were not merely versifications of the Psalms.” It may be that “the doxology has done more to teach the doctrine of the Trinity than all the theological books ever written.”
The tune, Old Hundredth, was composed (or adapted) by Louis Bourgeois. In 1541, he was “given the responsibilities to provide the runes for the new metrical psalms” for the Reformed Reformation Movement. The first English words to which it was wedded were William Kethe's version of Psalm 100 (All People That on Earth Do Dwell) so the tune became known as “The Hundredth”. The word “Old” was added when a new version of the songbook published in 1696 (the first one being the Anglo-Genevan Psalter of 1551) to indicate that “the tune was the one in use in the previous Psalter.”
“I will praise Thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: And I will glorify Thy name forevermore.” -Psalm 86:12Prelude on 'Ascalon'Composer Geoffrey NobesThis prelude was written for the Band of the Free Evangelical Church of Geisweid in Germany. In 1973, Portsmouth Citadel Band encountered this band during their tour of Germany. The beautiful hymn tune Ascalon (also known as the Crusader's Hymn or St. Elizabeth) is heard in two complete statements with a free-flowing lyrical section followed by a contrasting section using phrases of the melody to build to a full final working of the hymn. These are the verses associated with the music:
Fairest Lord Jesus,Lord of all nature,O thou of God and man the Son;Thee will I cherish,Thee will I honour,Thou my soul’s glory, joy and crown.
Beautiful Saviour,Lord of the nations,Son of God and Son of Man,Glory and honour,Praise, adoration,Now and for evermore be thine.
“For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: All things were created by Him and for Him.” -Colossians 1:6Hymn Setting – Nicaea Composer William Himes Based on the 19th century melody of the same name by Dr. J.B. Dykes, this three-verse setting draws its inspiration from the familiar and majestic text of Reginald Heber:
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee.Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!
Holy, holy, holy! all the saints adore thee,Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea.Cherubim and seraphim, falling down before thee,Who was and is and evermore shall be.
Holy, Holy, Holy! though the darkness hide thee,Though the eye of sinful man thy glory may not see,Only thou art holy; there is none beside thee,Perfect in pow'r, in love, and purity.
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!All thy works shall praise thy name, in earth, and sky, and sea;Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!God in three Persons, blessed Trinity.
Reginald Heber was an English Anglican pastor who served in England and later in India with additional responsibilities for the island of Ceylon as well as all of Australia. After his sudden death due to sun stoke after preaching to a large, outdoor crowd about the evils of the caste system, his widow published this hymn among 56 others many of which are still sung today. The hymn was written specifically for Trinity Sunday (8 weeks after Easter) which reaffirms the doctrine of the triune Godhead. Though the word “trinity” is not found in the Scriptures, yet the truth of three Persons, equal and eternal with each other, is clearly taught throughout God's Word.
The tune, Nicaea, was named after the Council of Nicaea held in Asia Minor in 325 A.D., when the doctrine of the Trinity was examined and held to be a true and essential doctrine of the Christian faith. It was composed in 1861 specifically for the words penned by Reginald Heber.
“O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For He is our God; and we are the people of His pasture.” -Psalm 95:6-7Peace Like a RiverComposer Stephen Bulla Featuring the trombone section, this jazzy piece features the choruses I've got peace like a river and I've got a river of life flowing out of me.
I've got peace like a river (Cedarmont Kids)
I've got peace like a riverI've got peace like a riverI've got peace like a riverIn my soul (repeat)
I've got love like an oceanI've got love like an oceanI've got love like an oceanIn my soul (repeat)
I've got joy like a fountainI've got joy like a fountainI've got joy like a fountainIn my soul (repeat)
I've Got a River of life (Sunday School Singers)I've got a river of life flowing out of me!Makes the lame to walk, and the blind to see.Opens prison doors, sets the captives free!I've got a river of life flowing out of me!
“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'” -John 7:38Slane or Be Thou My Vision Traditional Irish Tune/Composer Isaac Smith The tune, “Slane” is a traditional Irish air and was originally used with secular text, “With My Love on the Road.” It's first association with this hymn text was in the Irish Church Hymnal of 1919. The tune is named for a hill, ten miles from Tara, in County Meath, where St. Patrick is said to have challenged King Loegair and the Druid priests by lighting the Paschal fire on Easter eve. Arranged for Joyous Brass, this is its premier performance.
Be Thou My Vision (8th Century anonymous Irish hymn; versified by Eleanor H. Hull; Translated by Mary E. Byrne)
Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;Naught be all else to me save that thou art.Thou my best thought by day and by night;Waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.
Be thou my wisdom, and thou my true Word;I ever with thee and thou with me, Lord.Thou my great Father, I thy dear child;Thou in me dwelling, with thee reconciled.
Be thou my breastplate, my sword for the fight;Be thou my dignity, thou my delight.Thou my soul's shelter, thou my high tow'r;Raise thou me Heav'nward, O Pow'r of my pow'r.
Riches I heed not, nor vain, empty praise;Thou mine inheritance, now and always.Thou and thou only, first in my heart,High King of Heaven, my treasure thou art.
High King of Heaven, my victory won,May I reach Heaven's joys, O bright Heav'ns Sun!Heart of my heart, whatever befall,Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.
May we as believers be characterized as people of vision - “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” -Hebrews 12:2
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. -Proverbs 29:18March Medley – Heavenward Composer William GordonA variety of songs are used in this up-tempo march medley, portraying the celebration of a life looking forward to an eternity in Heaven. The tunes used are: When we all get to Heaven, When the roll is called up yonder and We shall win.
When we all get to heaven (E.E. Hewitt, 1898)
1 Sing the wonderous love of Jesus;sing His mercy and His grace.In the mansions, bright and blessed,He'll prepare for us a place.
Refrain:When we all get to heaven,what a day of rejoicing that will be!When we all see Jesus,we'll sing and shout the victory!
When the roll is called up yonder (James Black, 1893)
1 When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound,and time shall be no more,and the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;When the saved of earth shall gatherover on the other shore,and the roll is called up yonder,I’ll be there.
Refrain:When the roll is called up yonder,When the roll is called up yonder,When the roll is called up yonder,When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.
We shall win (William Hodgson)
1. We’re a band that shall conquer the foe,If we fight in the strength of the King;With the sword of the Spirit we knowWe sinners to Jesus shall bring.
Refrain:I believe we shall win,If we fight in the strength of the King;I believe we shall win,If we fight in the strength of the King.
Song Stories:
When we all get to heaven: words by Eliza E. Hewitt. Published in Pentecostal Praises, 1898, and in Songs of Grace and Truth, 1899.
When the roll is called up yonder: words and melody by James M. Black (1856-1938). His accounting of writing this hymn:
“While a teach in the Sunday school and president of a young people's society, I one day met a girl, fourteen years old, poorly clad and a child of a drunkard. She accepted my invitation to attend the Sunday school and join the young people's society. One evening at a consecration meeting, when members answered the roll call by repeating Scripture texts, she failed to respond. I spoke of what a sad thing it would be when our names are called from the lamb's Book of Life, if one of us should be absent: And I said, 'O God, when my own name is called up yonder, may I be there to respond.' I longed for something suitable to sing just then, but I could find nothing in the books. We closed the service, and, on my way home I was still wishing that there might be a song that could be sung on such occasions. The thought came to me, 'Why don't you make it?' I dismissed the idea, thinking that I could never write such a hymn. When I reached my home, my wife saw that I was deeply troubled and questioned me, but I made no reply. Then the words in the first stanza came to me in full. In fifteen minutes more, I had composed the other two verses. Going to the piano, I played the music just as it found today in the hymnbooks, note for note, and I have never dared to change a single word or note of the music since.”
We Shall Win: Lyrics by William Hodgson. From The Companion to the Song Book of The Salvation Army (1989): William Hodgson was the son of a coal miner and was himself a coal miner first as a trapper boy and then as a miner (later known as 'The Blood-washed Collier'). After his conversion he became a Methodist local preacher. In 1879 he joined The Salvation Army and three days after meeting the Founder, William Booth, he was appointed as an officer (pastor) of a corps (church). He served in several corps as well as provincial centers. He contributed a number of songs to The War Cry, a Salvation Army magazine.
Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. -1 Corinthians 15: 51-52 ESVFestival Arrangement – Shine Down Composer Smiley, Gersmehl, & Farrell; Arranger Andrew BlythThis up-tempo song has been featured by the contemporary Christian artist Sandi Patti. It speaks of the real hope that Jesus can provide in the world today.
Shine Down (Billy Lee Smiley / Robert B. Farrell / Mark Stephen Gersmehl)
Shine down your light on meLet the people seeThat in your presence darkness fleesFather of light, shine down on me
Shine down your light on meLet the people seeThat in your presence darkness fleesFather of light, shine down on meFather of light, shine down on me
There's a land full of gloryIn a place where there is no nightAnd in that holy cityBurns the beacon of everlasting lightThe light that keeps reachingTo the people of every landA love that is longingTo fill the heart of every man
Shine down your light on meLet the people seeThat in your presence darkness fleesFather of light, shine down on me
Oh, shine down your light on meLet the people seeThat in your presence darkness fleesFather of light, shine down on meFather of light, shine down on me
“Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved!” -Psalm 80:7
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” -Matthew 5:16Meditation – There is a Fountain Composer Noel BrooksThis arrangement was written for The Salvation Army Canadian Staff Band's 50th Anniversary celebration in March 2019. This well-known hymn is presented in a meditative and patient setting featuring the tune 'Covenant'. The words to this hymn also fit the original melody that is introduced after the first chorus by the Flugel Horn. There are several quotes from the hymn 'I Know a Fount' where the band states "there's a wonder-working power in the blood of Calvary." This arrangement reminds the listener of the redeeming power of Christ's sacrifice, but also boldly proclaims, "I do believe, I will believe, that Jesus died for me."
There is a Fountain (William Cowper)
There is a fountain filled with bloodDrawn from Immanuel’s veins;And sinners, plunged beneath that flood,Lose all their guilty stains:
Refrain:
I do believe, I will believe,That Jesus died for me;And on the Cross He shed His Blood,And now He sets me free!
E’er since by faith I saw the streamThy flowing wounds supply,Redeeming love has been my theme,And shall be till I die.
In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem
for sin and uncleanness. -Zechariah 13:1
In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace. -Ephesians 1:7Tone Poem – ResurgamComposer Eric BallEric Ball’s Resurgam (1950) is a seminal tone poem for brass band, widely regarded as a masterpiece of the repertoire. The title translates from Latin as "I shall rise again". It was written for The Salvation Army and, although used as a major contest test piece, it has deep devotional roots, largely inspired by the composer’s personal reflections on death, conflict, and spiritual victory.
Here are the details, scriptural references, and thematic descriptions of the piece:
1. Scriptural Inspiration and TextThe work is prefaced by a quotation from The Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-3, found in the Apocrypha:
"The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be an affliction, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace."
2. Description and StructureResurgam is written in one continuous movement, characterized by a "relentless and restless" flow of tonality that depicts a journey from conflict to serene triumph.
Opening/Theme: The piece opens with a "faith" motif introduced by the lower band (bass end), characterized by a rising sixth.
The Conflict: The music contrasts calm, tranquil chorale sections with "stormy and turbulent" sections containing harsh, discordant sounds representing fear and death.
"Dies Irae" & "Exodus": The "death" theme in the work includes a reference to the "Dies Irae" and the "death" theme from an earlier tone poem by Ball, Exodus.
Structural Elements: The piece is noted for its "motivic" construction (rather than melodic), using a "sighing" tone and dramatic, silent bars that act as a "breath between sections".
Conclusion: The work does not end in a loud climax, but rather with a "life-affirming," very quiet, and peaceful statement of the opening theme, highlighting the "peace" of the righteous mentioned in the Apocrypha text.
3. Key Motifs and Musical Connections"The Awakeners" (1930s SA Anthem): Major melodic lines are adapted from The Salvation Army anthem The Awakeners, with the opening line "Awake thou that sleepest and arise from the dead".
"In the Secret of Thy Presence": The triumphant climax is derived from one of Ball's own choral songs, In the Secret of Thy Presence, which deals with prayerful devotion and eternal life.
4. Background ContextDedication: The work is dedicated to the memory of the composer’s sister-in-law, Elsa.
Theme of Hope: While it features intense moments of "fear and even hysteria," the overall message is one of optimism, hope, and the ultimate victory of life over death.
“For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” -1 Thessalonians 4:14-17Quick March – Jubilee!Composer Paul DruryA piece in the style of a circus march, written for the centenary celebrations of Edinburgh Gorgie Band in 1998. The march has since been featured extensively by the Household Troops Band. It contains the chorus of the song 'Be glad in the Lord', as well as the old testimony choruses, 'I love him better every day' and 'Bound for Canaan's shore'.
Be glad in the Lord
Refrain:
Rejoice, rejoice! Be glad in the Lord and rejoice!
I love him better every day
I love him better every day,I love him better every day,Close by his side, there I'll abide;I love him better every day.
Bound for Canaan's shore
Refrain:
I am bound for the promised land,I am bound for the promised land;oh, who will come and go with me?I am bound for the promised land.
Song Stories:
Be glad in the Lord: written by Mary Elizabeth Servoss. Mary was born in Schenectady, New York, in 1849. She cared for her disabled grandmother for 18 years while caring for her mother through a protracted illness and then her father until he died. She was a great admirer of Fanny Crosby who inspired her to write a number of songs. Mary died in Illinois in 1906.
I love him better every day: chorus lyrics by Sydney Cox. After immigrating to Canada in 1907, he was converted in the Central Methodist Church in Calgary. He immediately joined The Salvation Army and entered The Salvation Army's School for Officer Training in 1909. He served several years in Canada in various appointments (corps/church, divisional & territorial headquarters). He was the education director of Moody Bible Institute followed by serving in the USA Southern territory (education secretary, youth secretary and principal of the training school). In 1944 he became an independent evangelist, conducting campaigns throughout the US and Canada as well as teaching in colleges. This chorus was added to a song by Thoro Harris that addresses chronic grumblers and finding joy in faith.
Bound for Canaan's shore (i.e. On Jordan's stormy banks I stand): lyrics by Samuel Stennett. Dr. Samuel Stennett was born in Exeter, in 1727. He was converted and was baptized when young. He was a man of superior talents. He was proficient in Greek, Latin and had extensive knowledge of sacred literature.
In 1763, he was made a Doctor of Divinity by King's College, Aberdeen. He ministered to the Little Wild Street church as his father's assistant for ten years; and as its pastor for 37 years after his father's death. His father (Joseph Stennett), grandfather (Joseph Stennett), his great-grandfather (Edward Stennett), his brother (Joseph Stennett), and his son (Joseph) were all Baptist ministers. He was a hymn writer of note having written 39 hymns. Most of his works were reprinted in 1784 in three volumes including his two most popular hymns still in use: “Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned” and “On Jordan's Stormy Banks.” He died in 1795.
“Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous; and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.” -Psalm 32:11
“But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.” -Hebrews 11:16
Some information extracted from 101 Hymn Stories and 101 More Hymn Stories both by Kenneth W. Osbeck as well as the Companion to the Song Book of The Salvation Army compiled by Gordon Taylor.