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Annual concert benefits young musicians.
At least 12 young people will attend Southern California’s Chris Mallett School of Music in summer 2010 thanks to the generosity of those attending the Torrance (Calif.) Corps’ ninth annual Chris Mallett Memorial Concert, held in honor of Mallett, former Southern California divisional music secretary and Torrance Corps bandmaster, who was promoted to Glory in 2000. Mallett is remembered both for his spiritual influence and his skill in musical instruction. The annual memorial concert raises funds to send youth to summer music camp.
Bandmaster and composer William Gordon emceed the event and led the California Brass Company, the special musical guests. “It is so meaningful to remember a soldier and good friend who has gone on to be with the Lord in such an upbeat and stimulating way,” said Gordon.
The Torrance Band (Bandmaster Kevin Larsson) and California Brass Company introduced the program with “Royal Fireworks.” The Torrance Songsters (Songster Leader David Mallett) offered “Singing in the Heavenly Choir” and “Come Home.” The audience enjoyed a song by the children’s chorus and a timbrel and flag presentation (Leader, Lily Vasquez).
The California Brass Company followed with “That’s When the Angels Sing” and “Beulah,” and the Torrance Band performed “Farandole.”
The Torrance Youth Chorus (Jacqui Larsson) sang, “We Declare,” and the California Brass Company offered an arrangement of “Amazing Grace.” The Torrance Songsters presented “Written in Red” and “Celebration Morning.”
For the offertory, corps pianist Ruth Hoskin played a medley based on “Washed in the Blood.”
The junior band (Corey Moore) showed their abilities with “Muffins Rhapsody” and “Effervescence.”
California Brass Company followed with “Shout to the Lord” and “Higher Ground,” and the Torrance Band played “Nothing Do I Bring.”
Corps officer Major Julio Vasquez brought a devotional message. The evening concluded with the songsters’ offering of “High Adventure,” and “In the Army,” and the band’s rendition of “Shout Salvation.”
“I felt all of the Torrance Corps groups did exceptionally well,” Gordon stated. “I was particularly impressed by the youth participation and high energy level which they conveyed to the congregation.”