Tag: reviews

Howard Davies – Salvation Army

Who Howard Davies Is (Salvation Army Context)

Howard Davies is an internationally‑known Salvation Army composer and songwriter, widely recognised for his contributions to Army vocal and brass music. His work spans decades and appears in songster repertoire, brass band selections, and recordings across several territories.

He is particularly associated with:

  • Songster music (vocal works used by Salvation Army choirs)
  • Devotional and encouragement‑themed songs
  • Brass band arrangements used in corps, divisional, and staff band settings

🎼 His Contribution to Salvation Army Music

1. Composer & Songwriter

Davies has written numerous songs that have become well‑loved in the Army world. His book Words & Music: Stories Behind the Songs highlights the background and inspiration behind many of them, including both humorous and deeply moving stories from his ministry life.

2. Brass Band Arranger

His brass band selection “Songs of Encouragement” (1978) is a well‑known devotional piece incorporating melodies such as:

  • Guardian Grace
  • His Eye Is on the Sparrow
  • He Is Able
  • Keep on Believing

This piece is still sold today through the Salvation Army Music Index.

3. International Reach

Davies’ compositions appear on recordings by:

  • The International Staff Songsters
  • Canadian Staff Band
  • Birmingham Citadel Band
  • Hendon Songster Brigade
  • Hamilton Temple Band

This shows his influence across the UK, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, and the USA.

📘 Autobiographical Insight

In his autobiographical introduction to Words & Music, Davies reflects on:

  • His Salvation Army heritage
  • His musically gifted family
  • His lifetime of service within the movement

This makes him not just a composer, but a storyteller and chronicler of Army musical life.

🎧 Recordings & Discography

Discogs lists 22 recordings featuring his compositions or arrangements, spanning from the early 1970s onward. These include LPs by various Salvation Army bands and songster brigades.

🧭 Why He Matters

Howard Davies is significant in Salvation Army circles because:

  • His music is devotional, accessible, and spiritually warm.
  • His songs are used widely in worship, concerts, and personal devotion.
  • His work bridges songster, brass band, and congregational traditions.
  • He documents the stories behind the songs, preserving Army musical heritage.

If you want, Kenneth, I can also prepare:

  • a short biography suitable for your WordPress blog
  • a devotional reflection based on one of his songs
  • a list of his most influential works for corps musicians