A holiday tradition to cherish

One of the great holiday traditions is the Chicago Staff Band’s (CSB) Sounds of the Seasons concert, held annually since 1993 at Wheaton College’s Edman Chapel. This year, an enthusiastic crowd gathered to enjoy the band’s incredible performance and special guest artist, Sara Groves.

At first glance, the title of the opening piece, Peter Graham’s “Summon the Dragon,” might suggest a reflection on the chaos of holiday shopping. However, from the opening fanfare by the cornets and trombones to the majestic full-band conclusion, any such fears were quickly allayed. Following a warm welcome and invocation by CSB executive officer Lt. Colonel John Pook, the program began with bandsman Marc Smith’s soprano cornet solo, The Forest Grove by Norwegian Salvationist Philip Hannevik. Played with beautiful lyricism and finesse, even the highest notes seemed effortless, earning Smith a well-deserved ovation.

The band followed with two contrasting pieces. First was La Fe el la Victoria (Stephen Kellner), a high-energy Latin-style setting of “Faith is the Victory,” featuring extended percussion breaks and vibrant sections that culminated with the entire band on their feet. Next was Faith Walk (William Himes), a piece originally composed for a wedding processional. Its quiet opening gradually built to a majestic conclusion.

Sara Groves, a well-known Christian recording artist and songwriter, joined the program alongside her daughter, Ruby. Their voices blended beautifully in a touching duet of “Miracle,” demonstrating that “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” Accompanied by CSB’s rhythm section—Carlos Navarro (guitar), Isaac Leka (bass), and Sam Leka (drums)—Sara performed three originals: “Shine,” “Enough,” and her well-loved “He’s Always Been Faithful,” with the CSB joining in.

Chief Secretary Colonel Thomas Louden provided a heartfelt devotional centered on faith, emphasizing the theme woven throughout the evening’s program. He encouraged listeners to “push the pause button” during the busy season and trust in the One “who can see tomorrow.” Louden concluded with a poignant thought: “When you see those strings and ribbons wrapped around the Christmas gifts under the tree, may they remind you of God’s love surrounding you.”

The evening’s major work was Deus Solus (God Alone) by Andrew Wainwright, written for the 130th anniversary of the Melbourne Staff Band. This technically demanding piece transitioned seamlessly from the hymn “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” to the central theme, “Faithful God,” and concluded with a powerful statement of “God and God Alone.”

After intermission, the focus shifted to Christmas favorites. The band began with Leroy Anderson’s classic A Christmas Festival, drawing audience members into its familiar melodies. Barrie Gott’s charming intermezzo, Deck the Hall, delighted with its unexpected brevity.

In a surprising twist, the CSB showcased their vocal talents, performing “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks” in a fresh, contemporary setting by Craig Courtney. Under the direction of CSB chorus leader Matt Woods, the band sang with exceptional balance, blend, and expression, supported by Caroline Wajda’s skillful piano accompaniment. This performance became one of the evening’s standout moments.

Sara and Ruby returned for a second set, featuring two originals: “It’s True” and the humorous “Toy Packaging.” The latter playfully captured the frustration parents face when wrestling with difficult toy packaging, earning hearty laughter from the audience. They concluded with an original arrangement of “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” (Andrew Wainwright), accompanied by the CSB, leaving the audience spellbound.

The concert ended with the rousing march Christmas Rejoicing (William Gordon), followed by a touching moment as CSB alumni, spanning seven decades, joined the current band onstage to sing the CSB’s “Choral Benediction.” Its opening lines encapsulated the evening’s mission:

“May these moments spent together give praise to Jesus’ name.
May the message of our music bring joy because we came.”

Mission accomplished.

To see more photos from the event, view our gallery: https://salarmycentral.org/csb-sounds-of-the-seasons-2024/