Gerald Gevers, Lüneburg
Under the Watchword: But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law (Gal. 4:4), this year’s brass band festival took place in Wittenberg on the 2nd of July, 2023.
In this time following the pandemic, these synodical festivals are now especially appreciated. Apart from the spiritual enrichment, there is great joy in seeing old friends, relatives and acquaintances again.
On the previous day’s synodical youth day, a large number of brass players had also taken part. What a joy!
The brass band festival began at 9 a.m. with about 320 players and numerous listeners. After the morning hymns, Pastor Werner Straeuli led the divine service. A musical walk through the church year followed with Advent, Christmas and Epiphany hymns.
After the tea break, it was the turn of the individual choirs of the southern congregations. During the next section of Passion, Easter and Ascension pieces, the piece All hail the power in Jesus Name was a highlight for the whole choir.
The brass band festival also includes the commemoration of those players who have passed on in the previous year, the presentation of medals for dedicated service, as well as the welcoming of the new players.
This was followed by pieces on Pentecost, Trinity, Reformation, the End Times and Eternity. Pastor Matthias Albers held the closing devotion. The festival ended with the mighty Gloria sei dir gesungen (Gloria be sung to you).
At this point, we would like to thank our two conductors, Heinz Niebuhr and Roland Meyer, especially for their preparatory work and their service at this festival.
After a festival with beautiful weather, good food and drink, refreshed relationships, everyone was able to return home with a refuelled soul. Even if we sometimes get a little tired in the course of the year, as brass players we always draw joy and blessing from this bond with each other at this festival.
Next year, God willing, the brass band festival will take place in Uelzen on the 30th of June 2024.
Many thanks to the congregations of Wittenberg, Panbult and Piet Retief, as well as to everyone who contributed to the organisation of this day.
