The Bermuda Divisional Band (BDB) held its 18th annual Spring Festival of Music at North Street Citadel in Hamilton, Bermuda, in May. With the theme Good Ol' Army, the evening featured selections that captured the Army's long history as a force for the salvation of souls. Commissioners Brian and Rosalie Peddle, territorial leaders, were honoured guests at the event.

Vanessa Gaiton performs a liturgical dance

As guests arrived, they were treated to a PowerPoint presentation on the history of the Army and the BDB, followed by the prelude Banners and Bonnets, during which several female band members sported bonnets, providing a glimpse into the past.

A vocal ensemble joined the band on several selections, as did the Hallelujah Lassies, a timbrel brigade led by Shonette Wilson. The Lassies provided a traditional drill to I'll Go in the Strength of the Lord, as well as a contemporary presentation entitled Souled Out. Former BDB member Vanessa Gaiton offered a moving liturgical dance interpretation of People Need the Lord.

“For some, it was a spiritual awakening and, for others, it was a time of reflection and joyful praise,” says Warren W. Jones, divisional bandmaster. “Whatever their takeaway, we are believing that God was glorified.”