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San Diego Citadel hosts musicians from Northern Calif.
by MICHELE MARTINEZ –
Concord Corps Youth Band—Front row: Jesus Nkunku, Daniel Prince (Leader), Brittney Benesh, Josh Prince. Back row: Danny Grant, Milton Nkunku, Gerson Nkunku, Mike Garcia, Mike Pierce. |
On a warm September Saturday, two vans with 10 musicians, their instruments and baggage headed off from Concord, Calif. to San Diego. At the invitation of Major Warren Dabis, the Concord Youth Band (Corps Officers Majors Clay and Pam Gardner) spent a weekend ministering in music at the San Diego Citadel Corps.
Under the direction of Band Leader Daniel Prince, and with support from Susan and Mike Pierce, this ensemble spent eight hours caravanning south where they lodged at Camp Sierra del Mar. As special guests of the San Diego Citadel Corps, the youth band shared in the Sunday morning service by providing the prelude, offertory, and special music.
Gerson Nkunku offered his testimony in song with the cornet solo, “More to Learn.” Mike Garcia shared his testimony on how music and playing in the band has impacted his growth in musicianship and his walk with Christ. Milton Nkunku presented a dramatic monologue entitled “Joyful Noise.”
After lunch the youth band was invited to participate in a joint rehearsal with “Bridge Brass,” a local community band group, and the San Diego Citadel Band. An evening concert at the San Diego Silvercrest with a devotional given by Mike Pierce concluded the day’s musical events. With the sun still shining, the youth band headed to the beach for some fun and fellowship with friends and members of the Citadel band.
J.J. Opina and Bandmaster Richey Opina handled preparations for the weekend in collaboration with Majors Dabis of the San Diego Citadel Corps.