"Going to the Army!" - Marc Harry's Podcast (Marc Harry)

Going to the Army us a Podcast of Salvation Army music that began in July 2013 and has, since then, reached people all over the world! This is a special selection of music old and new to celebrate Christmas 2013.

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Christmas Joy   -   Erik Leidzen's march is a perennial favourite and is, surely, played several times each Christmas by almost every SA Band. Featuring Joy to the World, Jingle Bells and Love and Joy Come To You I doubt many bandsmen need to even look at the notes! This recording is from 1986 and was recorded by Southport Citadel Band

Noel   -   Joy Webb wrote this song in the 1960s and it has retained its popularity ever since in the Singing Company repertoire. This was only released as a single (45RPM) and was not on any of the Sunbury Junior Singers LPs.

The Infant King  -  Based on an old Basque Noel and originally harmonised by Cesar Franck this beautiful carol is often featured, as it is here, a capella (unaccompanied) and sung by the ISS

The Joy Of Christmas  - Robert Redhead's suite was popular for many years after its publication in the early 1970s but, in recent years, just the middle section (a glorious arrangement of O Little Town of Bethlehem) seems to be played anything like regularly. Sandwiching that arrangement we hear the lesser known 'Seven Joys Of Mary' and 'Past Three O'Clock'

Welcome to the World  -  This is from the Musical/Song Cycle 'Gethsemane' which I wrote with Fr Martin Morgan and Juno Hollyhock for The Church of the Ascension in Portsmouth. Recorded for my Christmas CD "My Christmas Wish" I share the vocals with my sister Ruth Bell, formerly of the ISS. The whole CD is available on a 'PAY WHAT YOU LIKE' Digital Download this December. Make your donation via PayPal to marc@harrymusic.co.uk and you will receive a link to download the tracks as mp3 or full quality FLAC files.

Comfort and Joy  - My good friend Dr Martyn Thomas wrote this piece for Portsmouth Citadel Band while we were both members in the early 1990s. Based on God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen this crowd-pleasing item calls for some virtuoso cornet and euphonium playing!

Ding Dong/Stars are Shining - My father, Major Ken Harry, collected the SA 78s all his life and always wanted to have them on cassette or CD but it was only after he was Promoted To Glory that computer technology developed to make this properly possible - especially as I soon learned how to remove so much of the crackle and hiss that made the original discs so hard to listen to! I first transferred all the SA 78s to CD some years ago and have now done many of them more than once. This recording was made by The London Girl Singers in the mid 1950s.  

The Little King Jesus - The Joystrings led the way for Christian Contemporary Music in the 1960s with their singles even appearing in the mainstream pop charts. Although both the groups' LPs had a Christmas theme several other Christmas songs only appeared on singles. This song, however, features on the LP 'Well Seasoned'.

A Carol Fantasy -  Eric Ball's piece  was published in 1966 and it is pleasing to hear so many of the master composer's exquisite touches in this much under-valued work, recorded here by the ISB on the 1974 collection "The Christmas Festival in Brass"  

The Holly and the Ivy - Another lovely Joy Webb arrangement for the Sunbury Junior Singers of the traditional carol.

Glory to God in the Highest - I met Col. Bram Thornett many times in my younger life, usually associated with his concertina, of course! Then - when my parents moved to Felixstowe to be the Corps Officers there - Bram was a retired officer soldiering at the corps. It soon became my privilege to be Bram's piano accompanist when he played concertina solos at various corps, over 60s clubs and rallies. One of Bram's sons is a regular listener to the Podcast and I'm glad to include something VERY traditionally 'Old Army' in this Playlist.

Praise Ye The Lord - While in a 'historic' mode 'Praise Ye the Lord' is the Army's version of the popular 'Hail, Smiling Morn' - a tune always looked forward to in carolling sessions (the triplet quavers warm the fingers up!) and sung here by the ISS once again.

Nev's Carol Medley - From the old to the newer! Neville Raine originates from Sunderland in the North East but has lived for many years in Leeds. I have worked with many guitarists over the past 30 years but none better than Nev, who I had the privilege of playing and singing alongside in Rock Group 'The Big Picture'. This Carol Medley was, I believe, assembled for a Corps Carol Service at Morley Corps and I found it recently in my collection and deemed it a 'must share'!

O Little Town - What we in the UK call 'the American version' of this famous carol is still heard less often here than the more familiar 'Forest Green' tune. This beautiful arrangement by Col Norman Bearcroft comes from the long-forgotten ISS LP 'Christmas Greetings' that I only recently transferred to my computer and is well-worth a listen!

Good Christian Men Rejoice - Quite possibly the strangest Salvation Army related recording I can think of was the collaboration between the popular Cockney duo 'Chas & Dave' with the Cambridge Heath Band back in 1986. Released on the secular Telstar label this recording was advertised widely on TV at the time and both album and a single got into the charts! Chas & Dave may not be every Salvationist's 'cup of rosie lea' but I was reminded of this album just this week when the duo headlined the 'Royal Variety Show 2013'.

While Shepherds Watched - It was a pleasure to work with Norwich Citadel Band and massed singers from the Norfolk area on a recording 'Joy To The World' a few years ago, providing arrangements for the singers, keyboard additions to various pieces and incidental music for Christmas bible readings. The CD was the first release that could be purchased with or without the singing and reading - so any other corps without a band would be able to host a full carol service using the 'accompaniment' version of the disc. This was my arrangement of the popular carol.

The Festive Season - Morley Calvert's Christmas suite has been enjoyed for many years by Army audiences and it is now a popular item on contesting bands' Christmas programmes as well. I'm sure many former Army bandsmen have memories of their Army service re-awakened when they play such pieces. I pray their love for Jesus is also rekindled at such times...and I'm sure it often is...

Christmas Can Be Every Day - The second offering from The Joystrings here - and a song that has managed to retain some popularity over the years. Christmas can be every day if we have the love of Jesus in our hearts.

A Starry Night -  Aptly following The Joystrings we hear Joy Webb's 'A Starry Night'. This song is one of the Army's most successful 'exports' in recent years and is sung by children in schools all over the world every Christmas. I remember playing it at a football stadium a couple of years ago at a 'Faith in Football' carol service and, as the band played, a whole grandstand full of children spontaneously joined in and sang! What a great experience that was!

Star Of Bethlehem - Salvacosta are a vocal ensemble who need little introduction to Salvationists in the UK. Their new CD for Christmas 2013 is called 'The Christmas Collection' and I am delighted that Darren Bartlett has asked me to include a song from this brand new recording here. The group (which, incidentally, also features my sister Ruth and my son Lewis) have a new album out at the moment that is successfully raising money for the BBC Children in Need appeal and I would encourage you all to add this excellent collection of Christmas Music to your collections by clicking here to see how to purchase it!

The Carollers - Finishing off this Christmas selection of music is another of the great SA Christmas marches - 1953's 'The Carollers' by Richard Holz featured Good King Wenceslas, The Holly and the Ivy and God Rest ye Merry, Gentlemen.

The vast majority of the recordings used here are, as always on "Going to the Army!" unavailable to purchase - mostly being long 'out of print'. However, almost all new Salvation Army recordings are available from World Of Brass and/or SP&S.

PLEASE support music-making in the SA today by visiting one of these sites.

A VERY Happy Christmas to all listeners. God Bless You all.

Marc 

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 7th monthly Episode is for January 2014 - Happy New Year! - and takes GttA into the 2nd half of its first year of ministry. The January episode, although by no means restricted to just that one expression of service, focusses on the role played within the Salvation Army of the YP (Young People's) Band.

The previous six episodes have been played and/or downloaded over 35,000 times both here and on iTunes and shared much more widely than that - so listeners tell me! One letter I received told me that 12 members of their own family listen to the shows via just one download - so listening figures must be FAR higher than the mere 'hit' counter could ever express. Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore!

The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the 2,500 strong Facebook group having recently been added from Indonesia, Peru and Liberia..."They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, YP Bands and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 8th monthly Episode is for February 2014 - and continues the ministry of  GttA. This episode,has a focus on the Salvation Army's worldwide ministry and features ensembles from Canada, the USA, Holland, Switzerland, Sweden, Italy, Australia, South Africa and Scotland. There is also an update on the Army's work in Italy and Greece through Estelle Blake and centred on the evils of Human Trafficking

The previous seven episodes have been played and/or downloaded over 40,000 times both here and on iTunes and shared much more widely than that - so listeners tell me! One letter I received told me that 12 members of their own family listen to the shows via just one download - so listening figures must be FAR higher than the mere 'hit' counter could ever express - one estimate is that over half a million have now heard the podcasts! Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore!

The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the 2,600 strong Facebook group having recently been added from the Phillippines, Mexico and Siberia..."They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

ERRATA - I thought 'Empress of Ireland', my script said 'Ireland'...my voice spoke India!  No idea how that happened...apologies for any offence inadvertently caused. I have recently been recording the audio book version of the forthcoming publication of Commissioner Hugh Whatmore's memoirs. The Commissioner's son, Guido, a member of the Canadian Staff band, perished in the tragedy and Hugh made a passionate speech in tribute on the opening night of the 1914 Congress.

I have also been made aware that Jamaica Citadel is not in the Caribbean but New York.

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 9th monthly Episode is for March 2014 - and continues the ministry of GttA. This episode,has a focus on some of the great stalwart servants that have served God through The Salvation Army over many, many years and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throught the Army World.

The previous eight episodes have been played and/or downloaded over 45000 times both here and on iTunes and shared much more widely than that - so listeners tell me! One letter I received told me that 12 members of their own family listen to the shows via just one download - so listening figures must be FAR higher than the mere 'hit' counter could ever express - one estimate is that over half a million have now heard the podcasts! Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore!

The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the 2,600 strong Facebook group having recently been added from the Phillippines, Mexico and Siberia..."They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 10th monthly Episode is for April 2014 - and is an intensely personal episode for me, having had a very difficult March. In fact, many of the pieces heard are those that were sent to me by friends in encouragement and support.

The new programme continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World.

The previous nine episodes have been played and/or downloaded over 50000 times both here on Podomatic and on iTunes and have been shared much more widely than that - so listeners tell me! One letter I received told me that 12 members of their own family listen to the shows via just one download - so listening figures must be FAR higher than the mere 'hit' counter could ever express - one estimate is that over half a million have now heard the podcasts! Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore!

The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the 2,600 strong Facebook group having recently been added from Fiji, Peru and Japan..."They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Introduction and Welcome - Nothing Do I Bring (Nothing But Thy Blood) - William Broughton Jr

Piece played here by The International Staff Band.

The Christ Of Calvary - words by Nathan Atkinson Aldersley. Music - Annie Laurie (arr. N Bearcroft)

Sung here by the International Staff Songsters on their recording 'The Spirit of the Army' this song is a great favourite amongst Salvationists and I have many fond memories of its association with friends now 'Gone to Glory'. I recall BM Jim Burn of Bedlington Corps singing this as a vocal solo in the open-air, tears streaming down his face, as they did so often when he was moved by the Holy Spirit. It was also the very first cornet solo ever played in public by my good friend Lloyd Bates or Portsmouth Citadel, whilst still a schoolboy at St. Luke's School in the city back in the 1920s. Lloyd played with the band for many years and, when I was Head of Music at the same school he came back for a school concert when well into his 80s and played the same tune again. Special memories indeed.

The Hill Of Calvary - Bramwell Coles

This 1945 selection was popular for many years although it has become less used in recent years as the songs used in the piece have fallen into disuse. I played this in my earliest days in the senior band at Tunstall Corps and have played it many times since. This beautiful rendition is by the Chalk Farm Band under the baton of Michael Clack.

The words of the final song, written by Ruby Knight are:

 

Down from the rainbow-circled throne

To dark Gethsemane

My Saviour came, my erring soul from sin to win

And died, He died for me.

 

Despised, rejected, yet He came

Reviling not again;

He bore for me reproach and poverty and shame

The thorns, the spear, the pain.

 

O Jesus, I can ne'er replay

The love Thou hast for me

O take my life, my love and all I have to give

And let me live for Thee

 

O Calvary, Calvary

Where Jesus died for me.

I love the place called Calvary

Where Jesus, Jesus died for me.

 

There is a Green Hill - words by Cecil Francis Alexander. Tune - Horsley

One of the most popular Easter hymns of all, sung here by The Sunbury Junior Singers under the direction fo Major Joy Webb.

Gethsemane - words by Juno Hollyhock. Music by Marc Harry

I wrote a 'Gethsemane Vigil' for the Church of England back in the 1990s with words by Fr Martin Morgan and Juno Hollyhock (YMCA). Over the years it has grown into a full Musical/Song-Cycle and I have performed it many times including in Portsmouth, Southampton and,  last week on Palm Sunday, at Lincoln Citadel. On that occasion, my son Lewis sang this song for the first time. It represents Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane prior to His arrest, asking "Take this cup from me, O Lord," but being obedient to death, knowing it was "the only way" God's will could be fulfilled.

Lewis has kindly recorded this version of the song specially for this podcast. A full CD and DVD of 'Gethsemane' is planned for recording and release in 2016.

Ave Verum (Love Divine) - Mozart arr. Albert Jakeway

Mozart's wonderful music played here by The Household Troops Band (John Mott)

I Can Think Of Him - words and music Joy Webb

This song has been much discussed during the last week on the Going to the Army Facebook page. First published in the October 1973 edition of 'The Musical Salvationist' and later in Gems 8 it has become a real favourite, albeit, again, another that has become rather forgotten in recent times. I find it a real tragedy that we Salvationists allow this to happen to what is, relatively speaking, new music.

If one of the ways God uses GttA is to bring music like this back into popular use I shall be thrilled.

This unaccompanied version is by Portsmouth Citadel Songsters.

The Old Rugged Cross - Stennard arr. Erik Leidzen

This song - of all those associated with The Salvation Army, surely the most requested - is, of course not a SA song at all but one of those we have, most certainly, 'made our own' through the years. This beautiful arrangement by Erik Leidzen is featured here by trombonist Gordon Hill with the International Staff Band from the LP 'Brass Impact'

For God So Loved the World - John ch 3. Music by Michael Babb

I was privileged to sing at the Royal Albert Hall Songster Leader's Councils Festival back in 1987, fpor which this lovely arrangement was composed as part of a larger, 3 movement piece called 'Words of Eternal Life'. The LP released from that event was, of course, titled 'Going to the Army'.

Again, I feel we often overlook this type of piece much too quickly in the Army - to me this is at least as good as the famous setting by John Stainer (from 'The Crucifixion') yet it would be my guess that, for many listeners, this might be the first time they have ever heard it. Shame on us if that is so!

When I Survey - words Isaac Watts. Tune by H Pfeil

Isaac Watts hymn is used in all Christian churches right through the world and, rightly so, has become one of the most well known hymns in all our liturgy.  This arrangement, sung here once more by Chalk Farm Band, is to a Welsh hymn tune and I was glad to use this for many years with Portsmouth Citadel Band when I was privileged to look after the band singing. Players memorised their parts and we could sing it in the open air without music - and did so, often, to great effect.

  To Thy Cross I Come, Lord  - words Frederick Fry  music by Ivor Bosanko

This gorgeous setting of words well-known since the earliest days of The Salvation Army was published in 1992 and is sung here by Kaytie Harding who, at the time was a 19-year-old songster in the corps. Kaytie went on to feature for many years as a soloist with the International Staff Songsters and now works as a voice coach and choral director with her own company 'Voice From the Coalshed' in Brighton. She has made a new CD of songs this year with BM Howard Evans on piano, 'Summer Suns' which is available from the website  http://voicefromthecoalshed.co.uk/

Love's Immortal Token - Charles Skinner

It was my great privilege as a young teenager to spend a week on holiday with Col. Charles Skinner at one of the Salvation Army's holiday homes - I believe it was in Broadstairs, Kent. Several times he took me, as a keen young SA musician, under his wing that week, making me promise him I'd make the study of harmony a priority - which, of course, I did. Many of his pieces are still used today and this setting of the hymn tune we know as 'Healing Stream' is one of those, although this vintage recording is taken from an old 78 RPM record by the ISB.

Before the Cross - words Peter M Cooke. music by Edward Gregson

The name of Edward Gregson is very well known indeed in brass band circles, having composed a lot of great music for that movement over the last 40 years - including the most recent Test Piece for the National Finals at the RAH. However, Edwards roots are in the Army, being the son of officer parents and this lovely song was one of his very first published pieces, back in 1965. Rarely played or sung for many years (notleast because the piano accompaniment is in 5 flats!) it was recorded by Portsmouth Songsters in 1995 and has recently been heard a little more due to its use by The King's Singers who have done so much to revive many SA songs through their three 'Choral Essays' CDs (which are, of course, available from SP&S or World of Brass). The vocal soloist in verse 2 was Elizabeth Bird, whose daughter Yvonne was the piano accompanist on the solo by Kaytie Harding we heard earlier.

By The Way of The Cross - words and music by Thomas D Ferguson

Although not a Salvation Army composition this songs was published by the SA twice - in 1937 and again in 1957 as a male voice arrangement, as we hear here. Sung to great effect for many years by the ISB Male Chorus and recorded by them on a 78 record this version is sung by Hendon Band on a weekend visit to Tunstall in 1977.

As a Corps Pianist who can play quite naturally 'by ear' I usually pride myself on being able to accommodate most requests by meeting leaders but I have to admit to struggling recently when a meeting leader wanted to use this but did not know the melody from the 'top tenor part' and, between us, I'm afraid we managed to let the song down!

He Took My Place - anon

The composer and author of this old gospel song is/are unknown yet it has travelled the world and been used on many occasions to help portray the truth of Jesus' atoning sacrifice. Sung here by W Binns with the Hendon Songsters from a best-selling LP of the 1970s "The Salvation Army By Request" the song comes afresh to us once more.

Were You There/I Was There

This is a special piece I have made for this podcast using two more old Regal Zonophone 78 RPM records from the 1950s. On one, the ISB Male Chorus sing the familiar old Negro Spiritual and, later, General Albert Orsborn used that record to illustrate his recorded Easter talk. On a 78 record there was only time for a fragment of the original ISB song to be used on the General's record but here, we can hear both - in a fuller version - for the first time. 

I, for one, am fascinated to hear the voice of an Army General who was Promoted Glory while I was just a very young boy - yet a man whose songs have meant so much to me right through my life, as they have, of course, to so many Salvationists.

Reflections in Nature by Robert Redhead

Earlier in April I put together a video in response to a request from a former Salvationist now living in the USA, using Catherine Baird's wonderful song "When Jesus Looked o'er Galilee". I hadn't properly realised that the rest of the Christian Church does not have this gem of a song in their hymnals - the privilege we have in the Army of having songs like this is such a great one, I'm sure we don't always appreciate it!

While the song imagines how Jesus may have thought as He gazed over the sea so close to His home and Robert Redhead's beautiful arrangement of Ernst Fewster's tune adds even more to that experience. The piece is played here by the Canadian Staff Band.

Even on Good Friday we should never forget:

 "But when the winds triumphantly

Swept from the open plain

The Master surely heard the song:

The Lord shall live again!"

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 11th monthly Episode is for May 2014 and features music by SA bands, songster brigades, soloists, a singing company...and The Joystrings!  After many years of unavailability The Joystrings music is now once again available to purchase from SP&S via their website at this link:

http://www.ekmpowershop28.com/ekmps/shops/stcadmin6678/joystrings-156-c.asp 

The new programme continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. The previous ten episodes have been played and/or downloaded over 50000 times both here on Podomatic and on iTunes and have been shared much more widely than that - so listeners tell me! The Good Friday 'Reflective Music Special' was downloaded over 3,000 times in just 1 days over Easter and became the 3rd most listened to Christian podcast on Podomatic and 18th on iTunes - so true listening figures must be FAR higher than the mere 'hit' counter could ever express - one estimate is that over half a million have now heard the podcasts!

Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore (although family and health circumstances have led to this new (May) podcast being a few days late! The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the Facebook group having recently passed 3,000 members.

"They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 12th monthly Episode is for June 2014 and completes the first year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 12 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in almost countries throughout the world and played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.

This new episode is an unashamed celebration of 'all things Army' and features music by SA bands, songster brigades, soloists, a Youth Chorus...and me!  It also concludes with a special section commemorating the sinking of 'The Empress Of Ireland', the ship carrying the Canadian Staff Band and other delegates to the International Congress in 1914 that sank after a collision, costing the lives of over 1,000 people, including the vast majority of the band. This occurred exactly one hundred years ago and the CSB recently took part in commemorative events to mark this centenary.
For reasons of time and convenience this latest podcast is in 2 parts. PLEASE also listen part two - the only other time I split the podcast part one had twice as many listens as part 2 - I hope it wasn't simply forgotten! PLEASE DON'T FORGET PART TWO!

The new programme continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. 

Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore (although family and health circumstances have led to te last two podcasts being a few days late! The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the Facebook group having recently passed 3,150 members.

"They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

 PLEASE DON'T FORGET PART TWO!

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 12th monthly Episode is for June 2014 and completes the first year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 12 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in almost countries throughout the world and played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.

This new episode is an unashamed celebration of 'all things Army' and features music by SA bands, songster brigades, soloists, a Youth Chorus...and me!  It also concludes with a special section commemorating the sinking of 'The Empress Of Ireland', the ship carrying the Canadian Staff Band and other delegates to the International Congress in 1914 that sank after a collision, costing the lives of over 1,000 people, including the vast majority of the band. This occurred exactly one hundred years ago and the CSB recently took part in commemorative events to mark this centenary.
For reasons of time and convenience this latest podcast is in 2 parts. PLEASE also listen part two - the only other time I split the podcast part one had twice as many listens as part 2 - I hope it wasn't simply forgotten! PLEASE DON'T FORGET PART TWO!

The new programme continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. 

Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore (although family and health circumstances have led to te last two podcasts being a few days late! The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the Facebook group having recently passed 3,150 members.

"They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music.

This 13th monthly Episode is for July 2014 and marks the beginning of the 2nd year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 12 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.

ERROR on the new epside commentary: The Air Varie - A Sunbeam was composed by Phil Catalinet and not by Albert Jakeway, who conducted the Rosehill Band in the performance heard. Apologies.

This new episode features music by SA bands, songster brigades, a singing company, a congregational song...and a singing company!  Mentioned in the Episode is Brindley Boon's autobiogarphy, "The Best of Both Worlds" which is available from SP&S at this link:

http://www.ekmpowershop28.com/ekmps/shops/stcadmin6678/book-the-best-of-both-worlds-2290-p.asp

Also referred to is the forthcoming, first ever SA Music School in Malawi. There is still an opportunity to sponsor delegates for this historic event and further details can be found at:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/228795963991931/

PayPal donations to the Malawi Music School can be made directly via this link:

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=NXGAYV4H7AZ5J

The new programme continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. 

Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore (although family and health circumstances have led to te last two podcasts being a few days late! The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the Facebook group having recently passed 3,150 members.

"They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 14th monthly Episode is for August 2014 and continues the 2nd year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 12 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.There is a new feature this month in which I interview a Salvationist about their life and service - it is hoped to continue and develop this feature - and if you would like to be included please drop me a line atgoingtothearmy@marcharry.comThis new episode features music by SA bands, songster brigades, a male voice group, a congregational song, Ladies Voices and soloists.   Also referred to are the Salvation Army's Summer Camps which will be taking place around the world this month - including, of course, the first ever SA Music School in Malawi. There is still an opportunity to sponsor delegates for this historic event and further details can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/228795963991931/ PayPal donations to the Malawi Music School can be made directly via this link: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=NXGAYV4H7AZ5J Please pray for all young people (and staff members) involved in these camps - many of us know how life-changing these experiences can be!This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore! The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the Facebook group having recently come from many African Corps and Venezuela. The group recently passed 3,260 members."They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or togoingtothearmy@marcharry.com Donations to help with the costs of the web-hosting of "Going to the Army!" are always welcome and the link to donate via PayPal towards the continuance of the podcast can be found on the right hand side podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 15th monthly Episode is for September 2014 and continues the 2nd year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. 

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 14 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.There is a new feature this month in which I interview a Salvationist about their life and service - it is hoped to continue and develop this feature - and if you would like to be included please drop me a line at goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

This new episode is an intensely personal one for me having been inpsired my recent events and a family holiday (including worship with friends in Lincoln). It features music by SA bands, songster brigades, a rock group, a congregational song, singing company, music school, holiday fellowship and soloists.   Also referred to are the Salvation Army's Summer Camps which will have taking place around the world this month - including, of course, the first ever SA Music School in Malawi - we are pleased that, thanks to Major Mark Bearcroft. we are able to include music from that very camp this month!

A video recording of the entire 'final festival from the Malawi Musci School is available to be enjoyed here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpHFN4mwi20

Please pray for all young people (and staff members) who have been involved in these camps - many of us know how life-changing these experiences can be!
This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me items they would like featured on GttA - amongst these we hear this month from the newly augurated USA Western Territorial Staff Band (Neil Smith) whose first CD, Trust in Jesus' is avaialble here:

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/usawesternterritorystaff

or here:

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/trust-in-jesus/id890126884

Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore! The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the Facebook group having recently come from many African Corps and Venezuela. The group recently passed 3,500 members."They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Donations to help with the costs of the web-hosting of "Going to the Army!" are always welcome and the link to donate via PayPal towards the continuance of the podcast can be found on the right hand side podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 16th monthly Episode is for October 2014 and continues the 2nd year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. 

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 14 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.There is a new feature this month in which I interview a Salvationist about their life and service - it is hoped to continue and develop this feature - and if you would like to be included please drop me a line at goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

This latest episode is themed on the Parable of The Prodigal Son as told by Jesus in Luke's Gospel. It features songs and pieces with the theme of reconciliation with God and His all-forgiving love. Also featured is an interview with Major Mark Bearcroft about the Salvation Army presence in the Middle East - and also with more information about the recently held 1st Music School in Malawi

(A video recording of the entire 'final festival from the Malawi Musci School is available to be enjoyed here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpHFN4mwi20 )

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me items they would like featured on GttA.

Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore! The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the Facebook group having recently come from many African Corps and Venezuela. The group recently passed 3,600 members."They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Donations to help with the costs of the web-hosting of "Going to the Army!" are always welcome and the link to donate via PayPal towards the continuance of the podcast can be found on the right hand side podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 17th monthly Episode is for October 2014 and continues the 2nd year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 14 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.There is a new feature this month in which I interview a Salvationist about their life and service - it is hoped to continue and develop this feature - and if you would like to be included please drop me a line at goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

This latest episode is dedicated to cornet soloists throughout the Salvation Army world and features 4 of the greatest cornet soloists from the history of the movement: Tom Giles, Deryck Diffey, Ron Mostaard and Derek Smith, as well as music by Erik Leidzen, Robert Redhead and 2 songs by Joy Webb.

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me items they would like featured on GttA.

Thank you for supporting this podcast and for your frequent encouragement to me to continue! I assure you it is no chore! The global range of listeners continues to grow with additions to the Facebook group having recently come from many African Corps and Venezuela. The group recently passed 3,600 members."They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Donations to help with the costs of the web-hosting of "Going to the Army!" are always welcome and the link to donate via PayPal towards the continuance of the podcast can be found on the right hand side podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 18th monthly Episode is for December/Christmas 2014 and continues the 2nd year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. This episode is the 2nd 'Christmas Special' although, unlike 2013 (and by popular request) a commentary on each piece is restored.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 14 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.

In this Special Christmas Episode we feature music from many of the great SA composers including Norman Bearcroft, Robert Redhead, Joy Webb, Steven Bulla and, of course, Ray Steadman-Allen who was Promoted to Glory at the age of 92 just a week before the podcast was completed

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me items they would like featured on GttA.
The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 3,700 members from all around the world.

"They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Donations to help with the costs of the web-hosting of "Going to the Army!" are always welcome and the link to donate via PayPal towards the continuance of the podcast can be found on the right hand side podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 19th monthly Episode is for February 2015 and continues the 2nd year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. There was NO GttA in January 2015, the first 'break' since its inception in July 2013. 

This very special episode is a musical tribute to Lt Colonel Ray Steadman-Allen who was Promoted to Glory in December 2014 at the age of 92 and after more than 65 years as an active Salvationist composer of the highest rank! The legacy of wonderful music he has left us is both vast in number and almost unparalelled in its variety - the quality of that music, it goes almost without saying, of course, is amongst the best ever produced from within the Salvation Army.

This is a special 2.5 hour tribute edition of Going to the Army in honour of RS-A, as he was often fondly referred to and I hope it does honour to his memory, music and the contribution his long life and service made to our movement's musical and Spiritual ministry.

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com 

Donations to help with the costs of the web-hosting of "Going to the Army!" are always welcome and the link to donate via PayPal towards the continuance of the podcast can be found on the right hand side podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 20th monthly Episode is for March 2015 and continues the 2nd year of the "Going to the Army!" ministry. This episode focusses on Lent and the weeks leading up to Easter, to the majority Christians the most significant part of the Christian year.

Music includes examples of band music as well as songster brigades and singing companies, soloists and vocal groups. Two recent CD releases are referenced in the podcast:

GENERATIONS - featuring the music of Roland, John, Stephen, Roger, Matthew and Philip Cobb can be purchased from SP&S here:

http://www.sps-shop.com/cd-generations-7070-p.asp

and SUMMER SUNS by Kaytie Harding and Howard Evans is available from:

http://www.voicefromthecoalshed.co.uk/kaytie-harding-summer-suns.htm

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 20 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. 

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features songs and pieces that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.  In the months ahead we may run out of space on the Podomatic host site and, if we do then the early episodes will need to be deleted. The only option to this would be to upgrade the subscription package still further. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 3,900 members from all around the world.

"They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com 

Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 21st monthly Episode is for April 2015 hase 

just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 27 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. 

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.  In the months ahead we may run out of space on the Podomatic host site and, if we do then the early episodes will need to be deleted. The only option to this would be to upgrade the subscription package still further. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world.

"They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com 

  

 

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 22nd monthly Episode is for October 2015 and marks the return of the "Going to the Army!" ministry for its 3rd season. There has been a break in the series since April 2015 as I have moved house and seen many other changes in my life during that extremely busy period.

This episode celebrated the God-incidence, the way things just seem to come together for the good of the Kingdom so often when one relies on the Lord to lead! It features music by four Staff Bands and the International Staff Songsters, soloists, Junior Singers, corps bands and brigades, massed items from the Royal Albert Hall and more...
Composers featured include Bill Broughton, Emil Soderstrom, Chris Mallett, Dean Goffin, Norman Bearcroft, Brindley Boon and Barrie Gott.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 27 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. 

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that.  In the months ahead we may run out of space on the Podomatic host site and, if we do then the early episodes will need to be deleted. The only option to this would be to upgrade the subscription package still further. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world.

"They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com 

  

  

 

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 23rd monthly Episode is for Advent 2015 and continues the return of the "Going to the Army!" ministry - now in its 3rd season.

This episode is a special - the theme, especially towards the end of the podcast, is to ADVENT. It features music by Staff Bands and the International Staff Songsters, soloists, Junior Singers, corps bands and brigades, massed items from the Royal Albert Hall and much more...but all pieces this month feature music composed and lyrics written by Major Joy Webb (OF).

Joy Webb is, perhaps, still most famous as being a member of the 1960s pop group The Joystrings, a group of young Salvation Army officers (ministers) whose records hit the pop charts! Joy has written hundreds of songs, many of which are now an established part of the SA's repertoire and several of her tunes are also well known outside of SA circles (her Christmas Carol 'A Starry Night' is one of the most popular 10 carols in the UK according to a recent survey).

Now retired and spending most of her time away from the public eye I am pleased to offer this GttA tribute to a 'living legend'! So often we wait until someone has 'gone to Glory' before thanking them enough for what they have done...but, as my dear dad used to say, "GIVE THEM THE FLOWERS NOW!" So, Major Joy, accept this heartfelt tribute for all you have given us over many years!

EDIT - 11th Dec - I have been made aware that 'The Musician's Prayer' as featured in this episode is NOT a Joy Webb composition but by Len Ballantine. Thankfully (ahem!) there is still a Joy Webb link to that item as she is conducting the massed singing companies (which led to my confusion). Thank you to Mr D Charles for pointing out this error.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 27 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that. In the months ahead we may run out of space on the Podomatic host site and, if we do then the early episodes will need to be deleted. The only option to this would be to upgrade the subscription package still further. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included.

Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

The Spirit of Christmas

We start our 2015 Christmas playlist with Kenneth Cook’s 1954 March Medley. This has been a seasonal favourite amongst Salvation Army bands for as long as I can remember – and more! Featuring ‘Good Christian Men Rejoice’, ‘The Holly and the Ivy’ and ‘See Amid the Winter’s Snow’ it will set our feet tapping! It is played here by the Nottingham Memorial Halls Band.

Sing A Song of Christmas

If our feet are already tapping then Len Ballantine’s song will get our hands clapping as well! This song has been a popular addition to the Christmas repertoire both in the SA and beyond. We featured it with our own songster brigade this year at Lincoln Citadel but this is from the International Staff Songsters album ‘Sing Noel’

Stars are Shining

Back to 1941 now and a beautiful collaboration between Catherine Baird and Charles Skinner – 2 very well-known and fondly remembered names in SA music. This carol has retained its popularity and this lovely recording is by the Sunbury Junior Singers under Joy Webb’s leadership.

Rhapsody for Cornet and Band

A real ‘one man’ effort here – for this is Terry Camsey’s classic cornet solo based on the carol ‘A Christmas Lullaby – by Terry Camsey – and played by the composer himself with the International Staff Band at a festival during the 1978 International Congress. Terry is another much-loved and much-missed Salvationist musician having been Promoted to Glory shortly after attending ISB 120 a couple of years or so ago.

Grown Up Christmas List

Although not currently an active Salvationist Darren Bartlett is a well-known name to most of us. He has composed many songs that are well-used around the Army world including ‘In The Army’ and ‘Healing Christ’ and he is the leader of Salvacosta, a choir made up of mostly either current or past members of the SA and who reached the final of the BBC Choir of the Year competition in 2014.  Darren and I were born just a few days apart and we have attended music schools and worked together now for over 40 years. This lovely song is from a CD he made with the North York Temple Band a few years ago.

Sleep, Holy Child

Another well-known SA soloist is Sue Blyth and this beautiful song is taken from a CD Sue recorded some years ago now. Sue is currently SL at Peterborough Corps.

Cool Yule

Another good friend of mine, Martyn Thomas, has recently returned to SA service after a gap of many years, praise God! He has composed many songs band pieces in rock and swing styles, of which this is one. Martyn is from a line of accomplished SA musicians – his late father, Stan, was BM at Southsea Corps and leader of The Joybelles singing group which Martyn’s grandfather held the same position and wrote the march Southsea Citadel. Cool Yule is based on ‘Good King Wenceslas’

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

Here are Salvacosta with an up-beat arrangement of the popular carol in a Latin-American style. I recently heard the group sing this live in a sell-out concert in Branksome where they have helped raise over £35,000 for a local charity over the last 10 years.

Long, Long Ago

Another carol that has achieved popularity far beyond the limits of The Salvation Army itself is this one, Long Long Ago, by Ray Steadman-Allen – and this version is from a now seldom-remembered LP that Cambridge Heath Band recorded with popular singing due Chas and Dave in 1986.

O Heaven-Sent King

For centuries now aspiring composers have studied the harmonisations of the great composer Johann Sebastien Bach and few of the master’s chorales can match the sheer beauty of his setting of this old German melody. The words in this arrangement are by Miriam Richards but church choirs will still be more familiar with ‘O Little One Sweet, O Little One Mild’ that uses the same tune. This recording is by The Central Singers – a male voice group who came from Derby Central Corps.

The New-Born Babe

Bruce Broughton’s chorale-type setting is one of those wonderful arrangements that, when heard, one always asks why it is not played more often!  Maybe the fact it was published in the old Festival Series meant that many bands have never had this in their collections – but, surely, in this digital age, SP&S could do something about that?  This recording is from the ISB’s ‘Christmas Festival in Brass’ LP from 1974.

The Holly and the Ivy

For many of us, the International Staff Songsters have never been as fresh and exciting as during their formative years under Norman Bearcroft and this arrangement is typical of their music from that period. This is from their LP Season’s Greetings. Please remember Norman in your prayers as he is recovering from a serious fall just short of his 90th birthday.

We Three Kings

Here we have a truly Eastern setting of the familiar carol as recorded by The Joystrings.

Soon It Will Be Christmas (Ieuan’s Song)

Although I have written a new song for Christmas almost every year for the last 30 years few have managed to match the popularity of ‘My Christmas Wish’ – a song that became the title track of my first solo CD and which I still have several requests to perform every year. A couple of years ago I sat down and tried to compose a ‘sequel’ to that song, which focussed on all the ‘trimmings’ of the season with the hope that people would let Jesus back into His own celebration.  As I sat, trying to write, my youngest son Ieuan – who was just 8 at the time – kept coming up with suggestions for ‘next lines’, pertinent rhymes etc. – so I gave him a co-writing credit and put his name in the title.  This recording is just a rough demo I made until I have the opportunity to record a 2nd Christmas CD (provisionally planned for 2018).

No Room

Barbara Allen is another talented SA musician I have had the privilege of knowing for many years – going back to her days in Blackpool with the group ‘Close Encounters of the Real Kind’ but, for a long time now, Barbara has been settled in California where she has done much great work with Salvation Army vocal groups. This song is taken from her CD ‘Through It All’ and I pray we all have room for Jesus in our own hearts this Christmas and always!

Carol Of The Bells

Norman Bearcroft was writing great music long for SA singers long before he formed the ISS in 1979/1980, of course. This perennial favourite, with words by Ivy Mawby, dates from way back in 1965.

It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

The name William Broughton appears at the top of many SA band arrangements and, of course, Bill is an extremely well-known and accomplished trombone player. This solo arrangement of the tune we know as ‘Willis’ is in his familiar jazzy style and comes from his Christmas Collection ‘Let it Snow’. Bill is now living in Australia and recently conducted the wedding of another famous SA musician Barrie Gott.

Go, Tell it on the Mountain

More trombones – and, indeed, more Bill Broughton, now – but this time as part of the ensemble known as ‘Spiritual to the Bone’ taking the message of Christmas and telling it on the mountain – over the hills and everywhere!

Take the Light of Jesus to the World

On the same day I wrote ‘Soon it will be Christmas’ that we heard earlier I was asked to write a carol for Southampton Shirley Singing Company for them to perform in the annual corps carol service which, that year, had the theme ‘Christmas Around the World’ – so I wrote them this simple song with the chorus:
“From Sweden to Surinam, from Poland to Pakistan, The light that shone in the sky that night still shines within my heart. And everywhere in the world tonight we can share the joy of that Christmas night – And take the light of Jesus to the world.”

You’re Welcome

The Joystrings again – and a song to welcome the Saviour to His world. Until I first remastered their back catalogue some years ago at the request of Peter Dalziel for a group reunion I had not really appreciated that almost half the group’s total musical output was made up of Christmas music.

Christmas Praise

From 1984 this is a newer march than our opener but one that has become as popular as any other seasonal march in recent years. Composed by Australian Salvationist Noel Jones Christmas Praise contains ‘God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen’, ‘Hark the Herald’, ‘Normandy Carol’ and ‘The Manger Scene (Away in a Manger)’ – as well as a late nod to ‘O Come all Ye Faithful’.  Played for us here by the Regent Hall Band.

To conclude the playlist I leave you with the Amsterdam Staff Songsters and the beautiful ‘A Christmas Blessing’

A Christmas Blessing

Wishing all listeners a truly blessed Christmas 2015 and an inspiring new year! May we all work together for the extension of God’s Kingdom in the year ahead.
God bless you all!

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 25th Episode is for March 2016 and continues the return of the "Going to the Army!" ministry, now in its 3rd season. I sincerely hope that from now on the series will once again be a monthly podcast, as I know many listsners have missed it.

This episode celebrates all things 'Salvation Army' with a celebration of our identity as an organisation AT WAR with sin and evil - a BLOOD AND FIRE Army unashamed of the truths we are so needed to share with the world. Musicians and composers featured this month include several Robert Redhead, Eric Ball, Norman Bearcroft, Erik Leidzen, several Staff Bands and songster brigades, Ove Ericson, Bill and Bruce Broughton and Salvationist musicians from all around the world

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 32 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that. In the months ahead we may run out of space on the Podomatic host site and, if we do then the early episodes will need to be deleted. The only option to this would be to upgrade the subscription package still further. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 26th Episode is for May 2016 and continues the return of the "Going to the Army!" ministry, now in its 3rd season. 

This episode features Salvation Army bands, singers and soloists from around the world - with a special feature on a good friend of mine, Dr Clarence Adoo MBE - a Salvationist musician whose professional career as a trumpet player in leading orcheatras was tragicaly cut short by a terrible car accident that left him paralysed from the neck down. Despite this he has continued his career in music - not just in administration but as a performer and conductor - as we shall hear in his inspiring interview in the podcast.

As well as hearing a recording of Clarence playing we hear the International Staff Band in a special recording performing a march with Clarence conducting - and we have 2 excerpts from a BRAND NEW CD recording issued to help raise funds for him recorded by The Fairey Band, one of the leading contesting bands in the world, and conducted by John Ward that features the music of Col. Robert Redhead.

A DVD: "The Sound of Hope" is available to purchase at Clarence's own website www.clarence.org.uk

The CD "Quintessence" by The Fairey Band can be purchased through iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/album/id1099001968?ls=1&app=itunes

or at www.melodiesforclarence.com

PLEASE support Clarence as he continues to inspire and encourage people all over the world.

In addition to this feature music included in the Podcast includes works by Harold Scotney, Howard Davies, Norman Bearcroft and the Founder's son Ballington Booth.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 32 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service FOUR times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 27th Episode is for September 2016 and marks the return of the "Going to the Army!" ministry after a Summer Break. 

This episode pays tribute to one of the greatest names in Salvation Army history - BM George Marshall (OF) - a man whose music - and even more so when placed intot the context of his own life story - is inspirational and awe-inspiring. His story is told throughout the podcast episode and we hear more than TWENTY of his songs and pieces, including four recordings that have never been heard before, three of which have been made specially for this podcast.

The episode features Salvation Army bands, singers and soloists from around the world including:

The International Staff Band and Songsters (including a rare live recording from 1957), Chalk Farm Band, Tranas Band, THe Household Troops Band, Tottenham Citadel Band and the Canadian Staff Band, soloists Peter Wise and Lawrence Mallyon, Portsmouth Citadel, Brisbane City Temple, Birmingham Citadel and Upper Norwood Songsters and special guests The Black Dyke Band to end with!

The three new recordings I have made are of songs composed very early in the life of the composer, including his first published composition from January 1912 and the song BM Marhsall wrote to words penned by his fiancee (at the time, later his wife and lifelong carer) Jenny Berry.
Biographical details included in this episode are drawn from various sources but special mention must be made of the book 'Triumph of Faith' by Arch Wiggins. 

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 32 months. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service FOUR times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 28th Episode is for November 2016 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 3rd year of  broadcasting. 

This episode (the 33rd podcast in total, including seasonal specials) features bands, songsters, massed ensembles, a singing company and soloists - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire - inclusing some very rare pieces I doubt most listeners have heard before.  Composers featured include Erik Leidzen, William Himes, Andrew Blyth, Norman Bearcroft, Ray Steadman-Allen, Herbert Booth and Albert Vickery

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 3 years. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that. In the months ahead we may run out of space on the Podomatic host site and, if we do then the early episodes will need to be deleted. The only option to this would be to upgrade the subscription package still further. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 29th Episode is for February 2017 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 4th year of broadcasting.

This episode (the 34th podcast in total, including seasonal specials) features bands, songsters, massed ensembles, a singing company, rock band and soloists - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire - inclusing some very rare pieces I doubt most listeners have heard before. Composers featured include Emil Soderstrom, Kenneth Downie, William Broughton, Norman Bearcroft, Ray Steadman-Allen, Andrew Mackereth, Eric Ball and Fred Dockerill.

This new episode in the Podcast series and its successor to come next month features songs and pieces with a connection to WATER - seas, oceans, rivers, tides, floods and founts.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 3 years. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that. In the months ahead we may run out of space on the Podomatic host site and, if we do then the early episodes will need to be deleted. The only option to this would be to upgrade the subscription package still further. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com

The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 30th Episode is for March 2017 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 4th year of broadcasting.

This episode (the 35th podcast in total, including seasonal specials) features bands, songsters, massed ensembles, a singing company, rock band and soloists - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire - inclusing some very rare pieces I doubt most listeners have heard before.

Composers featured include John Larsson, Martyn Thomas, Thomas Rive, Norman Bearcroft, Ray Steadman-Allen, Douglas Rolls and Brian Hogg. This new episode in the Podcast series is the successor last month's podcast and features songs and pieces with a connection to WATER - seas, oceans, rivers, tides, floods and founts.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that in just 3 years. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

We have had to upgrade from the FREE Podomatic service three times now so many thanks to those who have donated enabling us to be able to do that. In the months ahead we may run out of space on the Podomatic host site and, if we do then the early episodes will need to be deleted. The only option to this would be to upgrade the subscription package still further. Any donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 31st Episode is for July 2019 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 6th year of broadcasting. 

This episode (the 36th podcast in total, including seasonal specials) features bands, songsters, massed ensembles, a singing company, Army groups and soloists - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire - including some very rare pieces I doubt most listeners have heard before. 

Composers featured include James Curnow, David Edmonds, Eric Ball, Les Condon, Norman Bearcroft, Joy Webb, Steven Ponsford, Ray Bowes and Dorothy Gates. This new episode is the first one since 2017 and the gap between podcasts is a reflection of SO VERY MUCH that has been happening in my life - including the birth of my daughters, moving house, a broken leg and operations...and lots of GREAT things happening in our local Corps.

The new episode is titled "FAITH" and all songs and pieces featured are about faith - as I describe it in the Podcast it is both 2faith FILLED and faith FUELLED!"

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA. 

"Going to the Army!" has also grown far more than I ever envisaged or even hoped! As a result we have needed to upgrade the hosting service on Podomatic many times and the renewal costs are now quite substantial - however donations to theis ministry have been generously made and continue - particularly as a result of a recent JustGiving appeal. I am hoping to complete work on a new, purpose-built stuidion to continue and expand my ministry further in the coming days.

Any further donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. 

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 32nd Episode is for December 2019 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 6th year of broadcasting. 

This episode (the 37th podcast in total, including seasonal specials) features bands, songsters, massed ensembles, a singing company, Army groups and soloists - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire - including some very rare pieces I doubt most listeners have heard before. 

Composers featured include Harold Scotney, Albert Orsborn, Ray Steadman-Allen, John Larsson, Norman Bearcroft, William Himes and Eric Ball with recordings featured from 1930 right up to the present .This new episode ends with an eye on Advent - the time of the year when we, as Christians, try to ready ourselves for the celebration of Jesus' coming to earth in order to be the saviour of Mankind.

A new feature starting with this episode is the inclusion of a special segment to highlight famous SA soloists , both vocal and instrumental.  If you have a favourite soloist you would like to hear please send me an email to marc@marcharry.com and I will try to source a recording, if one exists.

Also specially featured this time is a report on the recent reunion of SA Rock Band 'Solid Rock band' from Gloucester SA.  There is an interview with singer Cliff Matthews (a current member of the International Staff Songsters) and music from the group.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA. 

"Going to the Army!" has also grown far more than I ever envisaged or even hoped! As a result we have needed to upgrade the hosting service on Podomatic many times and the renewal costs are now quite substantial - however donations to theis ministry have been generously made and continue - particularly as a result of a recent JustGiving appeal. I am hoping to complete work on a new, purpose-built stuidion to continue and expand my ministry further in the coming days.

Any further donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. 

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 33rd Episode is for March 2020 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 7th year of broadcasting.

This episode (the 38th podcast in total, including seasonal specials) features bands, songsters, massed ensembles, a singing company, Army groups and soloists - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire - including some very rare pieces I doubt most listeners have heard before. The theme for this episode is "VICTORY!" and most of the chosen pieces look forward to the day when Christ shall overcome.

Composers featured include Erik Leidzen, Chris Mallett, Ray Steadman-Allen, Kenneth Downie, Wilf Heaton and Bramwell Coles - with recordings featured from 1930 right up to the present day.

A new feature that conyinues with this episode is the inclusion of a special segment to highlight famous SA soloists , both vocal and instrumental. Featured soloists this time include the great cornetist Tommy Giles and Sue Blyth. If you have a favourite soloist you would like to hear please send me an email to marc@marcharry.com and I will try to source a recording, if one exists.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet. This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.

"Going to the Army!" has also grown far more than I ever envisaged or even hoped! As a result we have needed to upgrade the hosting service on Podomatic many times and the renewal costs are now quite substantial - however donations to theis ministry have been generously made and continue - particularly as a result of a recent JustGiving appeal. I am hoping to complete work on a new, purpose-built stuidion to continue and expand my ministry further in the coming days.

Any further donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps. So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the first of these has just been broadcast this evening. There were a few teething problems - mainly that the end of the meeting was lost when the News Headlines intervened - so I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the second of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast but with a few added bits that had to be cut out to 'fit' the broadcast version into 58 minutes.

I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps. So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns.

I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the third of these has just been broadcast this evening. This is the meeting as it was broadcast but with a few added bits that had to be cut out to 'fit' the broadcast version into 58 minutes.

I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

We have heard it claimed by some that 'Easter has been cancelled this year' - not so! The message of Easter is more relevant that ever in this time of sadness, worry, tragedy and devastation...

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the fourth of these has just been broadcast this evening. Tonight, especially for Easter Sunday our Bible message is brought to us by Commissioner Keith Banks.

I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Peace of mind and heart is a much sought after thing - especially right now as so many people around the whole world are worried about health, jobs, finances, loved ones and so many more of the circumstances we find ourselves in.

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps. So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the third of these has just been broadcast this evening. This is the meeting as it was broadcast but with a few added bits that had to be cut out to 'fit' the broadcast version into 58 minutes. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 34th Episode is for April 2020 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 7th year of broadcasting. 

 

This episode (the 44th podcast in total, including new NEW Salvation Meetings and seasonal specials) features bands, songsters, Youth Chorus, a massed item, Army groups and soloists - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire - including some very rare pieces I doubt most listeners have heard before.

There is no overall theme for this episode but there is a personal, family celebration involved as I have specially assembled this podcast to celebrate the 80th birthday of my mother, Major Jean Harry (R).

Composers featured include Dirk Krommenhoek, Howard Davies, Ray Steadman-Allen, Bramwell Coles, James Curnow and Evangeline Booth.

A new feature that continues with this episode is the inclusion of a special segment to highlight famous SA soloists , both vocal and instrumental. Featured soloists this time include the great euphonium player Derick Kane and Katie Harding (former International Staff Songster). If you have a favourite soloist you would like to hear please send me an email to marc@marcharry.com and I will try to source a recording, if one exists.

Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.

This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA. 
"Going to the Army!" has also grown far more than I ever envisaged or even hoped! As a result we have needed to upgrade the hosting service on Podomatic many times and the renewal costs are now quite substantial - however donations to theis ministry have been generously made and continue - particularly as a result of a recent JustGiving appeal. I am hoping to complete work on a new, purpose-built stuidion to continue and expand my ministry further in the coming days.

Any further donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 

Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. 

Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Thomas the disciple is famous for doubting the Lord's resurrection - but would we have been more easily persuaded than he? That is the theme of this, the 6th weekly Salvation Meeting I have made for Fortress Radio. Thomas, after his failing, served God wonderfully for many years before his own martyrdom - will people see 'the marks of Jesus' in us?


Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps. So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the sixth of these has just been broadcast this evening. This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Do you ever wish you could have a 2nd chance? has something ever gone wrong and you've said, "How I'd like another go at THAT?" That is the theme of this, the 7th weekly Salvation Meeting I have made for Fortress Radio. Peter, after denying Jesus, was reconciled with His Master on the beach after breakfast that day - and so he became the rock on which the Christian church was to be built.


Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps. So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the sixth of these has just been broadcast this evening. This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

People! The world is full of them - and, in the words of a popular Christian song, the NEED THE LORD. In The salvation Army we use many words for 'people' - some of them would be brothers, sisters, folk, comrades and 'whosoever'. William Booth famously sent, on one occasion, a one-word telegram that contained just the one word: OTHERS. The world needs to know that SOMEONE CARES - not just God Himself - but every one of us who call ourselves Christians! The world needs 'You and Me'to care...and more...to tell them about Jesus' saving power!


Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps. So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the sixth of these has just been broadcast this evening. This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Over the past few weeks we have been looking at - and learning from - the various appearances of the Risen Jesus: to Cleopas and the other disciple on the Road to Emmaus, to Thomas, to Peter and, today, we think of His encounter with His brother James - and appearing to over 500 witnesses at once on the mountain.

Then we will examine our OWN personal encounters with Jesus. How has meeting Him changed YOUR life? Or mine?

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps. So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the sixth of these has just been broadcast this evening. This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

This week we celebrated Ascension Day - 40 days since Easter and commemorating the day Jesus returned to His Father's side in Heaven. Having worked for the Church of England for many years I often wondered why they made quite a big deal of Ascension Day yet we in the Army didn't make such a fuss. We used to have a big, church assembly in the morning at school then had a half-day holiday!

This is the tenth in the series of Salvation Meetings prepared for Fortress Radio. Music featured is by Chalk Farm Band, the ISB and ISS, London Ontario Band, Len Ballantine and The Canadian Festival Chorus. The speaker is Major Brian Slinn, Divisional Commander of the E Midlands Division in the UK.

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the tenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Every year for decades The salvation Army has held a big music festival at this time of year. For many years this was held at the Royal Albert Hall and called either The Bandmasters' (or Songster Leaders') Councils Festival.

The concert was then followed by a series of three more devotional/instructional meetings held the next day at a different venue - making this a very special annual weekend for hundreds of Army music leaders but also bandsmen and songsters from the entire Territory - as Corps Bands and Songster Brigades were often invited to be 'solo' guest bands/choirs for the evening alongside The International Staff band and Songsters.

There was usually also a 'visiting' band from elsewhere in the world plus vocal and instrumental soloists of the highest calibre.

Around 2000 these festivals became known as 'Gospel Arts' festivals as the SA tried to incorporate more modern ensembles and groups. Dance, drama and even rock groups were added to the evening and the popularity of the events continued.

The event was moved to the more centrally located city of Birmingham a few years ago and the event changed name again to 'Symphony Sounds'

Sadly, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the event for 202 had to be cancelled. So "Fortress Radio" (a 24 hours a day Salvation Army music internet radio station) and "Going to the Army!" combined to create a very special 'Virtual' Festival to replace the cancelled event.

Listeners to the radio station and podcast have requested favourites or pieces that had a special significance to them - and over 350 people voted in online polls to choose the items you will hear here.

Long time Staff Bandsman Stuart Hall interviewed BM Stephen Cobb (ISB), SL Dorothy Nancekievill (ISS), Richard Carroll (long time stage manager/crew for the events) and euphonium maestro Derick Kane (ISB) and their memories and music choices also feature in the evening.

It was broadcast at 8pm on 30th May, 2020 - approximately the same time that the original event would have taken place, had it not had to be postponed.

A digital programme was available for download to enhance the experience of 'being there'and an estimated 6000 listeners 'tuned in' on the night to share the programme.

Here it is hoped to reach an even wider audience.

BUT - we want you to be far more than entertained - it is the makers' fervent prayer that the listeners be blessed, challenged to deepen their Christian experience and inspired to go out and share that experience with everyone they meet.

This world needs Jesus - share Him with everyone you meet! Amen

This week we celebrated Pentecost - we used to call it Whit Sunday! Remember all the children having new clothes and the marches around the neighbourhood?


This is the eleventh in the series of Salvation Meetings prepared for Fortress Radio. Music featured is by the ISB and ISS, London Ontario Band, Leigh-On-Sea Singing Company and the Melbourne Staff Band - and aalso the Howard family from Lewisville Corps, Texas. The speaker is Commissioner Keith Banks and the bible is read by Emma McCutcheon.

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the tenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

"Peace of mind and heart" is a quality many in the world are searching for - often quite desperately - in these days. yet God is waiting to meet that very need right now - and all we have to do is ask Him for it!

Now, that's great for us, as Christians, to know - but how much use it that to our neighbour, our workmate, someone in our family - if none of US have ever TOLD them?

The Christian life is a life of MISSION - we MUST be God's voice in the moral and ethical wilderness that is the world in 2020. If we don't tell people - then WHO WILL?

This meeting celebrates the peace that only Jesus can give us.

It features music by the International Staff Band and Songsters, the Amsterdam Staff Band, Brisbane City Temple Songsters and the Boxhill Singing Company - plus another new recording of my own. This with powerful prayers, vivid testimonies and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the tenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

As each day goes by at the moment we see new pictures of a world in utter turmoil...the amount of hatred and mistrust around the globe right now is both sad and frightening. The ANSWER to the world's problems, we know, is JESUS - yet it seems so reluctant to accept the only solution there will ever be.

Jesus told the disciples that the harvest was ready - but workers were needed to go out into the fields and gather that harvest. The situation remains the same today. Let us all LISTEN to Jesus' call on our lives and time - and let us respond by doing all we can to let the world know the good news of the Gospel - Jesus Saves! Someone Cares!

The Christian life is a life of MISSION - we MUST be God's voice in the moral and ethical wilderness that is the world in 2020. If we don't tell people - then WHO WILL?

This meeting celebrates the peace that only Jesus can give us.

It features music by the Hendon, Boscombe and Enfield Citadel Bands, Portsmouth Citadel and Kettering Songsters, and a fine array of soloists this evening: Kaytie Harding, Joy Naylor and Bobby Irvine. This with powerful prayers, vivid testimonies and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the tenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Welcome to another 75 minutes of fellowship, worship, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 21st June, 2020.

The theme of this week's service is 'GRACE' - what a subject! God's grace is the basis of SO MUCH for a Christian - our salvation - our ability to grow in our experience and personal holiness and the basis of our ability to 'love the unloved' and 'serve suffering humanity'.

It features music by the Canadian Staff Band, and "Butlins" Citadel Bands, Portsmouth Citadel and Brisbane City temple Songsters, Bromley Temple Singing Company and a fine array of soloists this evening: Bob Merritt, and Ian Johnston. This with powerful prayers, vivid testimonies and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the tenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 35th Episode is for April 2020 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 7th year of broadcasting.




This episode is the first of a 2-part special tribute to Lt Colonel Norman Bearcroft who was Promoted to Glory last week from his home in New Jersey at the age of 94. Norman was a very special man - a great musicians in his own right then composer and arranger of several hundred pieces of music. In the UK he served as both national Bandmaster and National Secretary for Bands and Songster Brigades. In addition he brought into being two Staff Sections - firstly, the Canadian Staff Band (55 years after the previous band had largely been lost in a tragic sea accident) and then the International Staff Songsters who have recently celbrated their 40th anniversary.



The 2 episodes contain over 3 1/2 hours of Norman's best music for bands, songsters and soloists with many recollections of of his life, his infectious and relentless humour - and also the deep Spiritual feeling he had for God's work here on Earth.

Soloists featured include Deryck Diffey, Richard martin, Derick Kane, Deryn Edwards and Roy Castle.



Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.



This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.


"Going to the Army!" has also grown far more than I ever envisaged or even hoped! As a result we have needed to upgrade the hosting service on Podomatic many times and the renewal costs are now quite substantial - however donations to theis ministry have been generously made and continue - particularly as a result of a recent JustGiving appeal. I am hoping to complete work on a new, purpose-built stuidion to continue and expand my ministry further in the coming days.



Any further donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!



Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.



Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Welcome to another 65 minutes of fellowship, worship, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 5th July, 2020.

The theme of this week's service is 'JESUS - the Lamb of God' - what a subject!

It features music by the Chicago Staff Band, and The Egon Virtuoso Bands, The International Staff Songsters and Pasadena Songsters, The Sunbury Junior Singers and a the Southern Singers as well as powerful prayers, bible teaching and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the tenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 36th Episode is for April 2020 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 7th year of broadcasting.




This episode is the second of a 2-part special tribute to Lt Colonel Norman Bearcroft who was Promoted to Glory last week from his home in New Jersey at the age of 94. Norman was a very special man - a great musicians in his own right then composer and arranger of several hundred pieces of music. In the UK he served as both national Bandmaster and National Secretary for Bands and Songster Brigades. In addition he brought into being two Staff Sections - firstly, the Canadian Staff Band (55 years after the previous band had largely been lost in a tragic sea accident) and then the International Staff Songsters who have recently celbrated their 40th anniversary.



The 2 episodes contain over 3 1/2 hours of Norman's best music for bands, songsters and soloists with many recollections of of his life, his infectious and relentless humour - and also the deep Spiritual feeling he had for God's work here on Earth.

Soloists featured include Deryck Diffey, Richard martin, Derick Kane, Deryn Edwards and Roy Castle.



Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.



This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.


"Going to the Army!" has also grown far more than I ever envisaged or even hoped! As a result we have needed to upgrade the hosting service on Podomatic many times and the renewal costs are now quite substantial - however donations to theis ministry have been generously made and continue - particularly as a result of a recent JustGiving appeal. I am hoping to complete work on a new, purpose-built stuidion to continue and expand my ministry further in the coming days.



Any further donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!



Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.



Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Welcome to another hour of fellowship, worship, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 26th July, 2020.

The theme of this week's service is 'Banners Floating High!

It features music by the Melbourne Staff Band, and The Norfolk Fellowship Band, The Agincourt Temple Songsters and The Hammond Family Band, The Boscombe Singing Company and as well as Tristan and Mandy Lanceley, who also testify. There are also powerful prayers, bible teaching and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the tenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Welcome to another hour of fellowship, worship, PRAISE, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 2nd August, 2020.

This week - in response to requests from listeners we are enjoying a good Salvation Army Praise Meeting - such as we used to enjoy on a Sunday between our roast dinners and granny's great Sunday tea!

It features music by the International Staff Band, Birmingham Citadel Young Peoples Band and Songsters, Wood Green and Portsmouth singing companies, Norwich Citadel & Portsmouth Citadel bands as well as the Norfolk Fellowship Band and Kenya East Ladies band who have aided our congregational singing – and, in addition, the Solid Rock Band. There are also powerful prayers, bible teaching and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the seventeenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Welcome to another hour of fellowship, worship, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 9th August, 2020.

This week's service marks the start of a short series of meetings based on the miracles of Jesus - this week - Water into Wine

It features music by the Mont Clair, and The Bristol Easton Band, The International Staff Songsters and The Male Voices of the Norwich Citadel Band, The Exeter Temple Singing Company and as there is a wonderful testimony by Ruth Dutfield - who reflects on the 30th anniversary of the sudden Promotion to Glory of her brother Gareth who was such a loved salvation Army character. There are also powerful prayers, bible teaching and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the eighteenth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

This week's 19th Salvation Meeting for Fortress Radio.

Continuing the series on Jesus' miracles tonight we look at the healing of the leper and 2 blind men - and at what may seem a strange instruction to the healed men!

As usual, the chance to hear some great SA music and sing along with some great hymns/songs!

Welcome to another hour of fellowship, worship, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 6th September, 2020.

This week's service continues the short series of meetings based on the miracles of Jesus - this week - Stilling the Storm

It features music by the Wellington Citadel Band, The Amsterdam Staff Band, The International Staff Songsters, The USA Western Territory Songsters and the Portsmouth Citadel Songsters, The London Singers and the Former Students of the National Music School at Cobham Hall. There are also powerful prayers - including almost 40 prayer requests, bible teaching and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the twentieth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

CONQUERING DEATH!

Welcome to another hour of fellowship, worship, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 13th September, 2020.

This week's service continues the short series of meetings based on the miracles of Jesus - this week - Conquering Death (The Widow of Nain)

It features music by the International Staff Band, The International Staff Songsters, Norridge Citadel Band with vocal group Onward, Pendleton Band and the Portsmouth Citadel Songsters, The Sunbury Junior Singers and the Norfolk Fellowship Brass. There are also powerful prayers, bible teaching and some truly fabulous songs. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the twentieth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Harvest Festival - Songs of Praise

Welcome to another hour of fellowship, worship, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 20th September, 2020.

This week's service is part of a day of celebration on Fortress Radio marking the Harvest Festival - as we thank God for all His goodness to us throughout the year

It features music by Kettering Citadel Singing Company, the Enfield Citadel Band, Canadian Massed Bands and Choir, United Youth Choruses of the UK Territory, The London Singers, John Gowans, The Melbourne Veterans Band and more. There are also powerful prayers, bible teaching and some truly fabulous songs of praise to our wonderful Lord and Creator. Join us and enjoy taking part in this hour of fellowship!

Throughout the world we are in the grip of a dreadful pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is wreaking havoc with the day to lives of countless millions of people. One of the consequences is the fact that we cannot, for the time being, meet in worship in our churches and Salvation Army corps.

So FORTRESS RADIO has stepped in to provide two 'meetings' each Sunday at least for the duration of the curfews and lockdowns. I am pleased to be preparing the evening - or Salvation Meeting each week and the twentieth of these has just been broadcast this evening.

This is the meeting as it was broadcast. I am sharing the meeting here so people can listen again if they wish or hear it in places where Fortress Radio is unavailable.

Welcome to another hour of fellowship, worship, music and bible teaching as heard on Fortress Radio - Sunday 4th October, 2020.

It's the SIMPLEST thing in the whole world!

Receiving Salvation!

Just say to Jesus "I love You. I trust you."

Objective achieved.

Yet, we seem to overcomplicate everything...the old acronym was K I S S - Keep It Simple, Stupid!


Songs this evening include 'Hallelujah to the Lamb', 'Since Jesus Came Into My Heart' and 'Just as I Am'. Musical items are provided by ther International Staff Band and Songsters, Chicago Staff and Chalk Farm Bands (soloist: Ray Todd), Southampton Shirley Singing Company and Jude Gotrich.

"Enter - Enter - Right into my heart, Lord - Enter now..."

Always Shine For Him

This week's Salvation Meeting - the 24th in the series of meetings prepared since the start of the Caronavirus Pandemic - has a rather 'celebratory' feel about it.  we are celebrating LOVE - not just the wonderful, life-changing love of God for us but also various aspects of our own 'human love'.  

This week our family has marked birthdays and anniversaries (including my own and that of my youngest daughter) and it has also been the 40th wedding anniversary of two of our most loyal listeners - one of whom reads the bible for us this week.

 We concentrate on 1 Corinthians 13 - the 'love chapter', as it is often known...in a week of birthdays and anniversaries we celebrate the love of a family - as well as the love of God - and how we need to shine for Him in this world of darkness.

With music from the ISB and ISS as well as the Sunbury Junior Singers, we have guest contributors:

Estelle Blake
and
Jeannine Ridha
(who is celebrating her own 40th Wedding Anniversary today!)

and solo items from:
Barbara Allen
and
Jared Littlewood
There's even a brand new recording of a popular children's chorus thrown in for good measure by myself - I hope you enjoy some of the tricks I can do in my little studio!  I had fun doing it anyway!
"Let your light so shine" (Matt 5:16)

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 37th Episode is for October 2020 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 7th year of broadcasting.


My sincere apologies to any listeners who may think the GttA podcast has taken a bit of a 'back seat' this year as I have found and been developing a new ministry through the Salvation Meetings produced in partnership with Fortress Radio. Hopefully, as time goes by, we can continue to produce both.


This episode (bringing the total number of podcasts produced to over 60 in total, including the Salvation Meetings and seasonal specials) features bands, songsters, Youth Choruses, a massed item from the Royal Albert Hall, and soloists including Susan Turner and Al Avery - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire.


There is no overall theme for this episode but a reminder of how, why and when "Going to the Army!" first began back in 2013.


Composers featured include Arthur Gullidge, Joy Webb, Eric Ball, Paul Lovatt-Cooper, Howard Davies, Bramwell Coles and William Himes.


A feature that continues with this episode is the inclusion of a special segment to highlight famous SA soloists , both vocal and instrumental. Featured soloists this time include the great euphonium player Derick Kane and Katie Harding (former International Staff Songster). If you have a favourite soloist you would like to hear please send me an email to marc@marcharry.com and I will try to source a recording, if one exists.


Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.


This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA.


"Going to the Army!" has also grown far more than I ever envisaged or even hoped! As a result we have needed to upgrade the hosting service on Podomatic many times and the renewal costs are now quite substantial - however donations to theis ministry have been generously made and continue - particularly as a result of a recent JustGiving appeal. I am hoping to complete work on a new, purpose-built stuidion to continue and expand my ministry further in the coming days.



Any further donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah!




Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included.




Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

Gowans and Larsson Special

This week's Salvation Meeting - the 25th in the series of meetings prepared since the start of the Coronavirus Pandemic - uses songs and other music written by (or based on songs by) Generals John Gowans and John Larsson.

Young composer/officer John Larsson was teamed with another poet/officer John Gowans in the 1960s to work together on a 'new venture' for The Salvation Army: they were asked to write a stage musical.  The result was 'Take Over Bid' - a greatsuccess.

The rest, as they say, is history! TEN very successful musicals later and many, many songs added to the Army's songbooks both young officers rose through the ranks eventually to the top rank of all - and their music and lyrics have become an intrinsic part of every Salvationist's life.

This evening all the music featured in the meeting is from their pens - but there is more than that...much of the spoken content of the meeting is also directly from the 'Two Johns'.

Music used in this meeting include Hundreds and Thousands - in a vintage LP recording from 1972 by the Goulburn Singing Company, 'Bill Broughton's 'Gowans and Larsson Overture' played by the Enfield Citadel Band and 'I'll Not Turn Back' by Portsmouth Citadel Songsters...as well as a very fine testimony from our friend Freddie - who has always struggled to keep himself on the 'straight and narrow'...

Several of John Gowans's own poems are included, read by the author - and the sermon is led by General Larsson.

 

I Want to Live Right!

 

This week's Salvation Meeting (the 26th in the series!) for Fortress Radio is largely based on the old chorus 'I Want to Live Right'.

Some great Army and church songs & hymns; Kettering Citadel Band and Hendon Songsters, the East London Youth Chorus, Jude Gotrich and US (South) contemporary group 'Transmission' priovide musical items while the 'testimony' is directly from the mouth of St Paul!  Major Chris Herbert opens the meeting in prayer.

Remembrance Sunday - Prayer

Tonight's meeting for Fortress Radio has a dual focus - Praying, particularly for Peace in the world and we also mark Remembrance Day, of course.

As usual, plenty of great songs/hymns and items from the ISB, Portsmouth Citade Songsters, Worthing Singing Company  and the Southern Territorial Songsters as well as the voices of Kaytie Harding and Gail Dickson and the playing of Howard J Evans and John Starkes.

Prayers are led by Chris and Jo Lyons (Gainsborough) and  readings and prayers from Stephen Poxon
and Ivan Stead (Grimsby)
.

...And something new - a drama item featuring my son Ieuan Harry!

Tonight's Salvation Meeting for Fortress Radio is all about TRUST.

This, the 28th meeting in the series that I have prepared most weeks since lockdown began in March 2020. God is using this online ministry in ways I - and many others - could never have imagined and I count it both a great privilege and responsibility to have this opportunity and to be part of this tremendous witness.

Music this evening includes items from Coventry City Singing Company, Norwich Citadel Songsters and the Household Troops Band. There are some truly wonderful songs included with a brand new recording of an old favourite from me.

The band item is an Eric Ball Classic and other music includes 'Christ is All' and 'I Know a Fount'. The band even play The Red Shield after the benediction!

Join me at 6pm tonight or on the "Going to the Army!" podcast site soon afterwards. God bless you all.
Marc

Praise and Salvation Meeting (29) - 29th November 2020

This is my latest meeting produced for  Fortress Radio - the 29th such meeting I've been privileged to make this year.

This week's PRAISE and TESTIMONY meeting includes an enjoyable mix of band, songster and singing company music, some grand songs and a quite remarkable testimony and solo from Kaytie Harding

Great songs of praise and testimony - Bible teaching from Ephesians, a Gowans Larsson classic Band Selection, songster songs and an amazing testimony!  Finally, one of the Army's greatest marches to conclude after the Benediction

I continue to be both amazed and thoroughly blessed by the way 2020 has opened up a whole new avenue of service and ministry that God has led me into in this strangest of all strange years.

Salvation Meeting (31) - 13th December 2020 (Advent 3)

 

This meeting, the 31st in the series produced for Fortress Radio in 2020, marks the 3rd Sunday of Advent.

 

In a world that needs Jesus more than ever before Christians are praying for the world to turn to its Saviour as we prepare to celebrate His birth.

The meeting has some great Salvation Army songs, Songster and Singing Company music and one of the greatest brass band pieces ever composed, from the pen of Eric Ball.

Of course, we are also preparing ourselves for Christ's return - the Second Coming - or Second Advent, as I refer to it.  We look at Isaiah's prophecy  and are left with the words of Major Joy Webb's beautiful song "Come into our World - NOW, Lord Jesus"

Welcome to the Fortress Radio/Going to the Army Carol Service 2020

 

I am delighted to invite you to join with the listeners from Fortress Radio to tonight's 'meeting' - the 32nd Sunday Evening Service I have been privileged to record and share with you since March 2020.

The world this year has changed so very much - but God's Love for the world He made is the same today as it was then - in fact, I believe He is holiding our world even tighter as it lurches from crisis to crisis in this unique year.

Tonight we join with the musicians of the Norwich area, East Anglia for our Carol Service - as much of the material for tonight's service is taken from a CD I was privileged to make with them a few years ago - titled 'Joy to the World'.


Tonight, I wanted us to all be able to simply sit back, relax in God’s presence and celebrate Christmas in a quite traditional way.  There will be carols, readings and musical items as we spend this hour together – united in our love for the Lord and our prayers that the world would simply ALLOW Him to be the answer to all the problems it seeks answers for!

So, I speak a little less than usual - but am grateful for help from Stuart Hall, the owner of Fortress Radio and his wife Lorraine - who have contributed readings.  Also to Kaytie Harding, Jane Brill, Ira Thomas and Sharon Kent who have made a new recording of 'Mary, Did You Know' that we are featuring.  You will also hear the International Staff Band and Songsters, The Sunbury Junior Singers, Hendon Corps and Chalk Farm Band with musical items.

The service also includes my own song 'My Christmas Wish' - the title track of my 2001 CD.

God bless you all - and may we all have a Wonderful, blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Marc

 

 

"Epiphany"

One of my friends posted this week that he likes to 'linger a little longer at the manger' at Christmas each year. Well, today is only '10 Lords a Leaping' day, I think - so our first Salvation Meeting of 2021 this evening has a distinctly 'Epiphany' theme - and the terms 'Worship and Adoration' would make a suitable title for the meeting.

Music comes from Pasadena Tabernacle Band, Regent Hall Band, Ilford Songsters, The International Staff Band & Songsters, East London Youth Chorus - and The Joystrings.

Wave goodbye to the Christmas season this year with the Wise Men - bowing at the feet of the Son of Man.

This is 33rd meeting prepared for Fortress Radio since the start of the Covid-19 Pandemic by Bandmaster Marc Harry of Lincoln Salvation Army, UK Territory.  Marc is well-known as a euphonium soloist, singer, pianist and songwriter and also hosts the (now occasional) "Going to the Army!" Podcast.

Salvation Meeting (34) for Fortress Radio

"Jesus - our Foundation"

 

This meeting, the 34th in the series I have prepared for Fortress Radio since March 2020, the start of the Covid pandemic, is centred around i Corinthians ch 3 - in which the Apostle Paul exhorts the younf church in Corinth to stop bickering about trivialities and ensure they build on a solid foundation.

Songs include 'I Dare to Be Different', 'How Firm a Foundation" and "On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand."  Musical items, by Norwich Citadel Band, Canadian group 'Witness', cornet soloist David Daws and the Southern Youth Chorus include favourites such as 'Total Praise', 'A New World' and Norman Bearcroft's 'Songs of Testimony'.  Portsmouth Citadel Singing Company remind us of the foollish man who built his house on 'Sandy Land'.

This ministry continues to be listened to right round the world both on Fortress Radio and here in the Podcast version.  Feedback is always welcome as are requests for songs or items - or you might want to record a word of personal testimony and become part of a meeting yourself?

"Which Way are YOU Going?"

 

This Salvation Meeting - the 35th in the series I have produced for Fortress Radio since the Covid-19 Pandemic struck in March 2020 - is all about walking our life's pathways with Jesus.

Do you walk with Him?  Talk with Him? There are many times when it is difficult for all of us - and many of us have been directly affected by the virus, of course.

Rest assured, that whatever might happen to us here on Earth we, as Christians, are always promised a joyous eternity in Heaven with our Lord and Saviour.

Some parts of the meeting are based on some writing I encountered earlier in the week by Commissioner Harry Read - and we also hear his lovely song 'Become Aware of Him'.

The band piece is an all-time classic, Ray Steadman-Allen's 'In Quiet Pastures' and some of the songs from that piece are either sung in the service or referenced in my talk.

Other music is provided by groups including Wood Green Singing Company, the International Staff Band and Songsters, the Canadian Staff Band, The Melbourne Veterans Band - and there is a lovely solo from Canadian Salvationist Dayna Curtis.  All that - and an excerpt from a much-loved Gowans/Larsson musical.
God bless you all - and thank you for listening.
Marc

Doom and Gloom

 

If a month has five Sundays then the 5th will always be a good old Salvation Army praise meeting - yes the kind you might remember from your childhood and younger days - often accompanied, if you recall, with indigestion caused by rushing down a full roast dinner in the hour you might have managed to get at home between morning and afternoon activities at the army!

This week we have music from Erik Leidzen, Robert Redhead, William Himes, Trevor Davis, Karl Westwood & Ivor Bosanko - some great songs, a wonderful testimony from Zara Rose  Stone....band, songsters, YP Band and a double helping of singing company...oh...and even the Cobham Chorus for good measure!

...And if that's not enough there's bible teaching about being JOYFUL and how to deal with all the DOOM AND GLOOM that surrounds us every day!

Christians have been blessed with the best GOOD NEWS of all - the Gospel of Jesus - so share it!  Avoid doom and gloom - and share a smile!

 

 

BE HOLY (but you don't have to be a hero)

Welcome to another hour of Salvation Army worship - featuring the International Staff Band and Songsters, Santa Ana Singing Company, Barbara Allen, and even my old friend Roger Marsh!

 

 

This is the 2nd meeting in the series in which we examine the 1st Epistle of Peter...

We are told to 'BE HOLY'. God doesn't expect us to achieve the target overnight...it might take a lifetime - but that's OK as He has the patience - and an unlimited amount of LOVE and FORGIVENESS to help us get there!

Some good Army songs, a band classic from Robert Redhead and an update of an oldie from the pen of
Richard Phillips...and there is EVEN MORE in the podcast version (which is not time limited) including music from  Kevin Larsson. My wife  Sarah Harry reads the bible for us and one of my favourite songs from the pen of John Gowans...

 

 

God bless you all.

Marc

"My time, matey, not yours!" - is what God told me very clearly earlier this week as I was growing impatient for inspiration!

This is the 39th meeting I have prepared for FORTRESS RADIO since the Covid lockdowns began in March 2020

This meeting is the third in the series based on the 1st Epistle of Peter - this time -chapter 2.  How can we best be 'walking advertisements' for Jesus in this evil world?

If you like some of the GREAT Salvation Army songs then this one's for YOU!

Plus music from the Amsterdam Staff Band, International Staff Band and Songsters, Croydon Citadel Songsters, Portsmouth Citadel Singing Company...and more besides!

Thoughts are centred around Major Darren Shaw's wonderful 'Guardian of My Soul'

This week's SALVATION MEETING for Fortress Radio is the 40th in the series I have prepared since the first lockdown almost a year ago. This time we take a look at part of 1 Peter ch 3 and try to apply the advice there to our lives at this specific time.

Major Estelle Blake opens in prayer, there is a fine testimony from SL Paul Dale (one of my oldest and best friends) and some great Army songs and choruses, band pieces and songs from the songsters - including some Gowans and Larsson classics and a modern masterpiece from Andrew Maycock.

Featuring the Staff Songsters, musicians from a Scottish Congress, the Sunbury Junior Singers ,William Booth Memorial Halls Band and soloist Eric Tebbett.

Marc

 

'Suffering for being a Christian'

This week's meeting is the the 41st Salvation Meeting in the current series on Fortress Radio 

We continue our look at the first epistle of Peter, reaching chapter 4 and the portion headed 'Suffering for being a Christian'.

Our guest speaker for the meeting is Major Estelle Blake - who has worked extensively for The Salvation Army in the field of human trafficking and abuse.

 

 

Music comes from Leicester South Corps, Kettering SA Band, Portsmouth Citadel Songsters, Boscombe Singing Company, the ISB, USA WT Staff Songsters and so many more - and many blessings, challenges and inspiration is promised!

God bless you all.

Marc

 

 

STRESS...WORRY...CARES....ANXIETIES...

Symptoms of life that we just have to live with in 2021? Or is there a solution?

Peter gives us the answer in the last Chapter of his First Epistle - and comes up with 'one of the best verses in the whole bible'!

This week's Salvation Meeting - the 42nd meeting I have produced since the start of the pandemic and marking a whole year of online ministry - is the last in our series looking at Peter's 1st letter.

Some great congregational song arrangements to join in with, a Joy Webb classic, one of the best of all Gowans/Larsson songs of all, a classic cornet solo and much more to enjoy and inspire.

Music from the International Staff Songsters, Philip Cobb, Portsmouth Singing Company, the TMS Ladies Voices Group, The Joystrings and many more adds to the worship and reinforcement of the meeting's theme - casting all our cares on Jesus - because He cares for us.

There's also a strong challenge to us all...so beware! It could be dangerous going to church! You never know what God might change!

Marc

 

'Meditative Music and Readings for a Holy Day'

There is, for today, a BRAND NEW episode of the "Going to the Army!" podcast - especially for Good Friday.

This is not a 'normal' GttA episode but a complete 'act of worship' - subtitled a:

'Meditative Music and Readings for a Holy Day' the 2 hour programme I have prepared with the help of the wonderful Jeannine Ridha has music by Salvation Army Bands and Songster Brigades, Singing Companies, Soloists and a even Rock Group.

Although the programme will be aired on Fortress Radio several times today it will be, necessarily, broken up by news bulletins - for complete, uninterrupted listening please use the podcast link here.

Readings are taken from dramatic presentations, poems and, of course, the Bible itself. Joining me with these dramatic readings is prominent Lincolnshire actress Jeannine Ridha who has strong links to Grimsby SA and has a career in musicals and other stage shows spanning 50 years.

Immerse yourself in the Good Friday experience and join me. God bless you all.

This Easter Day Salvation Meeting is very much a celebration of the Risen Christ - and it's great to be able to welcome Colonel Phil Maxwell (who delivers the sermon), his wife Deslea who also speaks and my friend Matt Woods as well.

When Col Maxwell sent a vocal solo to accompany his message he got Matt's name slightly wrong (Mark instead of Matt) and it was only when I listened to the beautiful voice I realised that it was young Matthew at once, of course!

Join me then, for some of the great Easter hymns and songs, songsters, singing company, soloist and one of the all time great Dean Goffin classics from the band.

Dare To Be a........Thomas?

 

The disciple Thomas sometimes gets a bit of a rough ride, I think. His reputation and legacy seems to be based on nothing but his 'doubting' - and hence his name has been used for millennia as the epitome of scepticism!

Join me for the Salvation Meeting on Fortress Radio where we look at so much more that we can learn from Thomas - enough that, instead of Daniel for a change, might not some of us even 'Dare to be a Thomas'?

Music from the ISB, Portsmouth Citadel Songsters, Wealdstone Singing Company (1970) and much more - plus, of course, some great songs and a brand new poem by Commissioner Harry Read.

Plus songs and the message - of course.

The 45th in the series of Salvation Meetings I have prepared for Fortress Radio sees a rare (for me) departure into the Old Testament and one of the great prophets - Ezekiel and his vision of the Mega-Temple.

I was led to quote earlier in my preparations: "Discussing Ezekiel's everso vivid prophecies with burning chariots and spinning wheels and dry bones reforming I question what medications he was taking and say "I'll have what Ezekiel's on!"

In all seriousness, though, this story is the only time 'Healing Waters' are mentioned in the whole of the Old Testament - and we live, today, very much in a world that needs that Divine Healing.

The meeting has a Living/Healing Waters theme and contains some grand old Salvation Army songs in old and newer arrangements including a beautiful vocal solo from Kaytie Harding.

Music comes from Boscombe SA Band, Staines Songsters and the (now sadly defunct) East London Youth Chorus.

May God bless you all and bring you nearer to Him as you listen to this podcast.

Ascension!

For the 46th in my series of Salvation Meetings for Fortress Radio. I am delighted to welcome my old friend Lt Col. Ced Hills who speaks on the subject of the Ascension.

The meeting is a bit of a 'Portsmouth Citadel Reunion'. Ced sat next to me on the euphonium section at Portsmouth when he was our CO a decade or so ago and we became good friends. So both Portsmouth Citadel Band ( John Hanchett) and Songsters (Julie Wheeler) take part in this meeting as well as there being some fine congregational songs and there are also contributions from the International Staff Songsters, Exeter Temple Singing Company (Jane Cox Williams) and the Birmingham Citadel Contemporary Music Group.

Welcome to a very special Praise and Testimony meeting prepared for Fortress Radio.

This is the 47th meeting prepared and presented by Marc Harry since the Covid pandemic began over a year ago.

Some great hymns and songs, Salvation Army choruses, band, songster and singing company items and even more - including words of personal witness, bible readings and prayers.

Just like being 'at the Army!

Let your light shine for Jesus wherever you go and a theme for this meeting might be "Take Jesus to all the world...He'll put things right.

Hallelujah!

It's been a while, friends.

It is only now I am feeling so much better that I can look back and appreciate quite how poorly I had become in the late spring/early summer this year.  It is WONDERFUL to feel better and also to be back producing these meetings.

This meeting I described as a 'Salvation Army Extravaganza' - and it's theme is the Universal message we share with the whole world about the saving power found only in the Blood of Jesus Christ!

Music from David Daws and Enfield Citadel Band, the International Staff Songsters, Wellington Citadel Singing Company and The Egon Band help us in our worship along with some of our favourite Salvation Army songs and choruses.

May God bless you richly as you listen - and, if you are not currently in the Lord's service please 'come home to God'.

Marc

A theme question for the meeting tonight may well be something along the lines of ‘Are You Weary’?  It’s that time of year again, isn’t it?  Half way between our summer holidays and Christmas, the weather - in the UK, at least, is turning colder and most of us have resorted to putting our heating on - at home and in our  Army Halls, the trees have turned that wonderful myriad of colours between yellow, red and brown and we’ve pulled our winter coats out of the wardrobe…yes, it’s definitely autumn out there, friends and, with it – for me at least – always comes a sort of mental weariness as if we just can’t wait for this period of a few weeks to pass – and Advent to start – never mind the endless Christmas Carolling that goes with it!
 
Sit back and enjoy an hour of real Salvation Army worship and music - some great songs and music from the International Staff Band, Brisbane Divisional Fellowship Band, Portsmouth Citadel Songsters and the Household Troops Band.

Proceed into a new covenant with Jesus - asking Him to let you 'rest your weary soul in Him' and we will truly be better placed to turn this old world upside down!

God bless you all!

"Going to the Army!" is a podcast series featuring Salvation Army music. This 39th Episode is for November 2021 and continues the "Going to the Army!" ministry, which is now in its 8th year of broadcasting. 

This time we have the first part of a 2 episode 'special' using the music of American composers and recognizing the wonderful contribution they have made to Salvation Army Music over many, many years. 

As always, it features bands, songsters, soloists, a massed item from the Royal Albert Hall, and soloists including Derick Kane, Olaf Lundgren, Phil Cobb and Al Avery - all sharing with us music from the vast Salvation Army repertoire.


Composers featured in part one include James Curnow, William Himes, Erik Leidzen, William, Bruce and Bill Broughton, Stephen Bulla, Emil Soderstrom, Stanley Ditmer, William Gordon - and more!  I hope you enjoy this 'Star-Spangled' selection!


Originally begun for just a few friends and family members GttA has become SO MUCH MORE than that. The Episodes and 'specials' have been listened to or downloaded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of times in all continents and more than 50 countries throughout the world - and has been played to even more by listeners who share them with family, church shut-ins and other friends who do not have access to the internet.


This new podcast continues the ever-growing ministry of GttA around the world and features both new songs and pieces and others that have been well-loved and very well-blessed for many years throughout the Salvation Army World. I am particularly grateful to people who send me requests for items they would like featured on GttA. 


"Going to the Army!" has also grown far more than I ever envisaged or even hoped! As a result we have needed to upgrade the hosting service on Podomatic many times and the renewal costs are now quite substantial - however donations to this ministry have been generously made and continue - particularly as a result of a recent JustGiving appeal. I am hoping to complete work on a new, purpose-built stuidio to continue and expand my ministry further in the coming days.



Any further donations to this ministry are gratefully received and my be sent via PayPal through the link on the right hand side of the podcast's main page at: www.goingtothearmy.podomatic.com The "Going to the Army" Facebook group recently passed 4,100 members from all around the world. "They shall come from the East, They shall come from the West and sit down in the Kingdom of God". Hallelujah! 




Much of the featured music is from my own transfers of old SA LPs, 78s and cassettes but some CD and original recordings are also included. Presented by lifelong Salvationist musician and actor Marc Harry this podcast features music by bands, songsters, singing companies and soloists. In addition, background information about the music, the Salvation Army and the presenter's own experiences are included. 




Feedback is welcomed - as are requests for songs/pieces that can be considered for future podcasts. - either here, on this page or to goingtothearmy@marcharry.com

The theme for the meeting tonight proclaims Jesus as 'The Light of the World'.

At this time of Advent  I am always made acutely aware of the aptness of Joy Webb';s beautiful song 'Come Into Our World'.  Yes, of course it is really HIS world but, as the song alludes 'men have forgotten Him and how to pray'.

Certainly, if EVER this dark world needed a light it is NOW...if ever it needed JESUS - it needs Him now.

We often think this is the job of professional preachers, church leaders and the very keenest and bravest of our fellow Christians - but that is not so:  if WE do not take Jesus into this world ourselves then there is no-one else TO do it!

Sit back and enjoy an hour of real Salvation Army worship and music - some great songs and music from the International Staff Band and Songsters, The German Staff Band, The Southern Chorus, The Sunbury Junior Singers, The Three Sopranos, Richard Phillips and the cast of Jesus Folk and a very real challenge for us all

God bless you all!

Tired of the same old promises to change?  Still biting your nails?  Not losing weight...again?

The world needs more from Christians than trivial changes like these - it needs us to create a REVOLUTION!  If ever this world needed the knowledge of its loving Saviour, Jesus Christ then it needs is right now - it needs the PEACE of Christ, the LOVE of Christ, the HEALING POWER of His Holy Spirit.

Tonight's meeting reflects on the WONDER of Christmas - the MAJESTY of God, the AMAZING world and universe in which we are privileged to live.and the fact God should send His own Son to be the ANSWER to all mankind's problems.

Songs include:Praise My Soul, How Excellent is Thy Name, In The Love of Jesus, In this Quiet Moment and 'Send the Fire' while there is also music from the International Staff Band and Songsters, Sunbury Junior Singers and American Salvationist Major Albert Avery.

Start a revolution in YOUR life this year - for GOD'S sake!

This week's Meeting for Fortress Radio - the 52nd in my series - has a very special guest speaker - Capt Nicholas J. Samuel - CO at the London (Ontario) Corps in Canada.  You may know his name also as a well-known SA composer of band and songster music.

He reads from and speaks about Judges 2 - with insight about a wandering people and their relationship with an ever-faithful God.

Some great songs (And Can It Be?  To the Hills and music from the International Staff Songsters, Clydebank Singing Company, Excerpt from a RAH festival, Portsmouth Citadel and Enfield Citadel Bands - and much more!

This week's meeting is based on a 2 word phrase that God spoke to me a few years ago - so clearly it may as well have been though my hi-fi speakers:

TRUST ME

Simple?  Well, not as simple as it sounds...but great advice all the same!

But it's a message not just for us as individuals - I BELIEVE IT'S ALSO A MESSAGE FOR THE CHURCH - as we step out into a world that has largely forgotten and ignored its Christian roots.

Music from Norwich Citadel Band, the ISB, National Songsters, Melbourne Veterans Band, Shirley Singing Company, the Royal Albert Hall and Butlins and some great songs to sing along with too!

When David wrote Psalm 51 he seemed to be asking for a New Testament forgiveness - hundreds of years before it became a 'thing'!

Ashamed and horrified by his sinful behaviour he opened his heart to God and begged to be given another chance.  According to Jewish Law, the only way he could achieve this was through making a sacrifice, a burnt offering to God - yet he realised that this was NOT what God wanted at all.  David asked to be purged of all evil, washed whiter than snow - as if by Jesus blood!  How amazing is that!

This week's meeting has the aim of bringing us all closer to God - for each of us to claim that 'washing' in Christ's blood - to be made more and more like Jesus with every day we live.

Songs include: 'Whiter  than the snow', 'To Be Like Jesus' and 'All My Work is for the Master'.  Music comes from the International Staff Songsters (Moment by Moment), Portsmouth Citadel Singing Company (Hand me down my Silver Trumpet) and the Boscombe Band with one of the very best of Salvation Army marches - Rosehill (there's even the chance to join in with that great chorus 'In the Army Ranks are We')

Join me for an hour of praise, worship, reflection and re-dedication.

Hallelujah!!

To mark St David's Day there is a distinctly Welsh flavour to the meeting this evening.

Some of the very greatest hymn tunes ever and some beautiful traditional Welsh melodies including 'David  of the White Rock', Suo Gan and Gwahoddiad.

Musical items from Cardiff Canton Band and Singing Company, Morriston Corps and soprano soloist Joy Naylor.

All wrapped in the wonderful message of Christ's salvation!  What more could you want?

There can be no doubt about it!

God HAS blessed The Salvation Army over the 157 years of its existence.  He still blesses our ministry today - in well over 130 countries all around the world.  Hallelujah!

But, there can be no denying it, the membership/soldiery of the Army has declined to numbers well below those we remember in years gone by.  Should we shake our heads and wonder what has happened, while we fade away even further?  Or do we take our inspiration from parts of the world where The Salvation Army is STILL GROWING - and growing fast?

It's time to shake ourselves into action and DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!  

I'm going to anyway - that's why, tonight, I am 'raising my Ebenezer' and looking to the Lord to lead the way towards turning that corner!

Some great songs tonight and music from some of the Army's greatest writers including Arthur Gullidge, William Pearson, John Larsson, Len Ballantine, Chris Mallett and there's also Ballington Booth to top it all off!

Ensembles featured include Norfolk Fellowship Brass, International Staff Band and Songsters, Chelmsford Singing Company, Portsmouth Citadel Songsters and Jonny Searle.

The meeting is titled "A Prayer for Peace" and we will be lifting up the situation in Ukraine to God in the very best Salvation Army way.

Music from the International Staff Band and Songsters, Sunbury Junior Singers, Canadian Staff Band, Portsmouth Citadel Songsters and much more...

Music from composers including Eric Ball, Ray Steadman-Allen, Kenneth Downie, 'Gowans & Larsson' and Howard Davies are blended with prayers from Salvationists worldwide...asking God to intervene in the current turmoils and warfare.

While in every way this is a 'traditional' Salvation Meeting in every other way I decided to use exclusively the music of General John Larsson, recently Promoted to Glory.

While choosing the music for meeting - songs, choruses, band piece, songster and singing company songs - I tried to keep away from the many songs the General wrote for the many musicals he co-wrote with General John Gowans.  I hope to feature each musical in a stand-alone episode of its own in my other podcast series "Going to the Army!" in future days.

The bible message is delivered by the General himself - recorded at a Congress meeting in Australia some years ago.

Marc 

Never has there been a more maligned animal than the poor old donkey!  Forever seen as slow, grumpy and - in the words of GK Chesterton  "The devil's walking parody of all four-footed things."

But, as the general once wrote "In the service of Jesus there's a place for all" and oh yes, our donkey had his day!

There's a lot more to the story than you may know, though...so come and join me for a great time of Salvation Army fellowship, worship and music in this week's Salvation Meeting.

Music comes from Norwich Citadel Band, the International Staff Band and the Melbourne Staff Band (with Sylvie Paladino), as well as the Sunbury Junior songsters and the cast of 'Blood of the Lamb'....plus a few more too!

Come and wave your palm branches and welcome Jesus as we mark His entry into Jerusalem!

"I've had enough!!"

"Stop the world, I wanna get off!"

Heard these expressions?  Maybe you've said them?

Life can sometimes seem like a trial - one thing after another, problems piling up...

Peter gives us reassurance in his first epistle:

"So be truly glad! There is wonderful joy ahead, even though the going is rough for a while down here."

Of course, nothing we endure could ever get anywhere near the trials faced by Job - yet Job managed to remain faithful (even if he DID have a good old moan!)

Tonight's meeting looks to encourage us at these times of trial.  Of course, praising God will always make us feel better - so we have some praise!  Remembering to rely on Him and letting Him no how much we appreciate His presence is also important, of course, and it's lovely to hear Alistair Taylor's wonderful setting of 'I Need Thee'  to help us.

Add some more beautiful songs and a timeless selection by Major Leslie Condon - and you have a taste of what to expect in another hour of that unique Salvation Army fellowship!

"Send the Fire!"

What must it have been like to have been in that room...that day...on that occasion when the sound of a mighty wind brought tongues of flame to settle on each person's head?

And then to have gone out into the streets with the followers of Jesus as each man heard the message in his own language - as the sheer POWER of the Holy Spirit on that first Day of Pentecost saw many thousands of people saved!

Well...all the best times have NOT already happened!  Did YOU know that you can have a similar effect on the people around you?  Do you even WANT that to happen?

Join me to explore what God wants and expects from us, His followers today, in taking Christ to a world in such desperate need!

"All around us seemingly, darkness holds its sway."  What could the FIRE of the Holy Spirit do to alleviate that darkness?

So why don't we?

Great songs, wonderful band, songster and singing company music and a plea from us all: 

"Holy Spirit - Promised Presence - FALL ON ME."

For the last meeting prepared before I take my summer break (I'll be back in September!) I found my inspiration after seeing a question asked in a Salvation Army forum online:  What is a Salvation Meeting?

In these days when most corps only have one service on a Sunday it seems strange to some to imagine we once had at least 3 indoor meetings, Sunday Schools, Open-Air meetings and more EVERY Sunday!

Each meeting had its own focus - Praise, personal Holiness - and Salvation - the meeting to which we were encouraged to bring friends, neighbours etc. in the hope and belief that they would find salvation for themselves.

So...I try to answer the question - and make an impassioned plea for a response in this meeting.

As always there is some wonderful music - Dean Goffin's timeless classic 'The Light of the World', Ivor Bosanko's beautiful setting of Herbert Booth's 'I Bring them to Jesus' - some great songs and choruses and a singing company item with a guest General participating for good measure!

Join me for an hour's worship and challenge - and God bless you all.
Marc

'The Salvation Meeting' makes its return this Sunday after my summer break.

It returns with something, by necessity, a little different from a 'normal' meeting.

The 90 minute 'special' has been specially written and recorded to be broadcast the evening before the funeral of our late Queen Elizabeth II and takes the form of a 'Heavenward-looking Vigil'

Specially selected Salvation Army music and songs are interspersed with thoughts reflecting Her Majesty's life and service, particularly her strong and vibrant Christian faith - and many of her own quotes have been recorded by Jeannine Ridha for the broadcast.

The meeting will be broadcast, as usual, on Fortress Radio at 6pm on Sunday 18th September and then available on the "Going to the Army!" site as well as the Fortress Radio Podcast service.

Please join me for this special meeting.

Marc

To mark the TENTH anniversary of the very first GttA podcast in July 2013 this is the first of a very special 4-part series of podcasts featuring music from each decade of the Army's existence right up to the present day.

The Salvation Army began - as The Christian MIssion - in 1865 when William Booth preached outside The Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel, East London.  Spreading throughout the whole of England, Wales and Scotland in its first decade it became The Salvation Army in 1878, Booth taking on the mantle of the General of his army.

Within 25 years, as we hear in this episode, 60,000 Salvationists could gather together at the Crystal Palace for a Silver Jubilee and today, 158 years after those humble beginnings the Army is at work in over 130 countries, right round the world.

This episode uses music with its origins in the earliest 40 years of the movement's history 1865-1905, a surprising amount of which is still known and occasionally used in the present day.  We hear music from writers such as Richard Slater, George Scott Railton, Kate and Herbert Booth (two of the Founder's children) and William Pearson as well as, of course, popular tunes of the day 'adopted and adapted' for the Army's mission a-plenty.

Some of the music has been adapted by well-known composers like Ray Steadman-Allen, Norman Bearcroft and Leslie Condon and sections featured include the ISB and ISS, Hendon, Portsmouth, Stockholm and Boscombe Bands, songster brigades from Birmingham and Moonee Ponds, Sydney Australia and a stellar collection of soloists including Susan Turner, Fred Crowhurst, Kaytie Harding and Ian Johnston - not to mention Commissioner John Lawley himself!

Enjoy this opportunity to transport yourself back in time to hear music and words with a relevance to the present age.

God bless you all.
Marc 

Had things gone to plan: then today – Tuesday 15th April 2025 I would have been preparing myself for one of my favourite events of the year.
 
Each Holy Week for quite some years now the Band and Songster Brigade from Lincoln Salvation Army here in the UK have presented an evening of reflective music for Easter.  The music chosen has usually been interspersed with bible readings and poetry written for and about the events of Holy Week leading up to, and including Good Friday.  Some years we have had a featured soloist as well to add to the evening.

Over the past few weeks, however, my health has not been too good.  The stresses of life, despite my general happiness in life, have exacerbated some health conditions that changed my life a great deal some 20 years ago – conditions that, as these recent days have proven, are still capable of coming back and haunting me from time to time.
 
 So, despite the preparations that we had made and the posters and leaflets produced to invite people to the event it has not been possible to go ahead THIS YEAR – let’s hope things can return to normal in plenty of time for 2026.

 

In the meantime, however, I thought - why not use the music chosen for this year, some used in previous years and some other items  from our wonderful Salvation Army heritage to produce a Holy Week programme of reflective music that can be enjoyed by many, many more listeners than our SA hall could hold – and, what’s more enjoyed and blessed by time and time again!