For over 125 years Salvation Army bands have been playing in citadels, churches and on street corners in countries around the world.

As an organization and a Christian church, The Salvation Army is active in 111 countries and its bands play a prominent role in the Army's meetings and modes of praise and worship.

"Brass Bands of The Salvation Army" takes a look at the beginnings, development and purpose of Army bands, from the first brass group formed by Charles William Fry at Salisbury, England in 1878, through to the near professional standards achieved by some bands today. But there are still hundreds of bands that perform with just a handful of dedicated players at their local town or village corps.

With the help of contributing authors from other countries, band historian Ronald W. Holz takes a look into the mission and music of Army bands and then asks 'What does the future hold for the bands of today?'

At 480 pages, this Army brass 'bible' thoroughly documents the history of Salvation Army banding. Included are chapters covering the brass band's progression in developed countries such as Australia, Canada, Sweden, the UK, New Zealand and the USA, as seen through the eyes of contributing authors Wally Court, John Cleary, Warren Baas, Torgny Hanson and Ronald Holz. All the authors conclude with a look to future trends and recommendations to better assist brass bands in staying current and relevant in today's rapidly evolving global climate. This book is a must-have for anyone who is passionate about Army banding.

Price: $79.95 (Canadian funds) - available through Supplies and Purchasing: Phone 416-422-6100 or E-mail orderdesk@can.salvationarmy.org