On 16 September 2006 the Chatham Salvation Army Band, under the leadership of Bandmaster Carl Woodman, celebrated its 125th Anniversary in great style.

An "At home" festival was held in the Chatham Hall and the band was joined by soloists Mark Norwood of Bromley Temple and the twice winner of 'International Euphonium Player of the Year', David Childs. The band played a selection of music taken from the different decades of the band's history, including 'A Fanfare of Praise', 'Celebration Overture' and 'Departed Heroes', making a feature of Eric Ball's 1937 composition 'Exodus'.

Mark Norwood and his accompanist Ashley Prodgers, brought four items which included a stirring rendition of "Stars" from Les Miserables and Andrew Blyth's arrangement of "The Touch of God".

David Childs had graciously made space in his hectic diary to be with the band for this special occasion and also brought four solos. His performance of "Brillante" held the large crowd captivated as he performed the seemingly impossible on the Euphonium. David was also joined by Songster Leader Adrian Horwood (Chatham) in the duet 'Timepiece'.

The Band concluded the evening with the march 'Milestone'
Many former Salvationists and non-Salvationists visited the Army for this event and several commented on how warmly they were welcomed and on their desire to come to the Army again.

This review appears courtesy of www.chathamsa.org