Territorial Youth Band and Choir 2025: Growing musically, spiritually and socially

Fin and Gwen share their experiences at TYB and TYC.

Fin (Bristol Citadel)

I’m 15 years old and I’m the percussionist in Bristol Citadel's YP and senior band. This was my first TYB and I was excited to attend a territorial music event. I came with three others from my corps and on arrival I was happy to find out I was sharing a room with the two other boys.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the audition, but I had no reason to be nervous as Lieutenant Jonny Whitmore (THQ) and Callum White were incredibly laidback and encouraging.

Throughout the week, we played a variety of pieces, each with its own level of difficulty. I was challenged by the music, but Jonny and Callum were always there to offer advice and support. I learnt a lot, especially when playing Paul Sharman’s arrangement of ‘Goodness of God’, which I’m looking forward to playing with my corps band in the future.

Beyond the music, I was impacted spiritually by the smaller cell groups, where we had more in-depth conversations about our faith.

Not only did I enjoy creating music and exploring my faith, it was also great to make new friendships with people from all around the UK and Ireland, who I am now in touch with regularly and look forward to seeing at Territorial Music School in the summer – if they get off the waiting list!

Meeting and speaking with the staff, many of whom are composers of the music I regularly play, was a real privilege.

In conclusion, TYB was an amazing experience that I’d highly recommend to anyone. It’s a great opportunity to grow musically, spiritually and socially.

Gwen (Regent Hall)

This year’s theme was Step Up and Stand Out in Our Generation. On Monday we arrived, had our welcome, the first rehearsal and dinner, before diving into icebreakers themed after The Traitors. It was hilarious, especially seeing the staff members dressed up as Claudia Winkleman!

On Tuesday, our Bible teaching focused on Stepping Up. Captain Megan Kervin (Edinburgh Gorgie) demonstrated this with a fun activity involving standing on eggs in a paddling pool. We discussed this using Paul in the Bible as an example. In our small groups, we read 1 Samuel 3, where Samuel is called by God, even though he doesn’t realise it at first. The day ended with silent movies, where everyone could choose their favourite film to watch with wireless headphones.

On Wednesday, we learnt about Standing Out, again using Paul as our example. We also delved into spiritual gifts. Later, we had a silent disco – it was a blast.

On Thursday, the focus was on Our Generation, including an intergenerational dance battle, ultimately won by Gen Z. We read about Moses and Joshua, discussing how God was present between those generations and is with us today. The day ended with a talent night, featuring singing, magic tricks, Rubik’s Cube solving and a worship band. There were also awards.

Friday’s worship allowed us to have free time to focus, before TYB arrived later in the day, when we met and talked about our weeks. We were also given a brightly coloured shoelace to remind us to step up and stand out. Saturday was concert day!

TYC was an incredible experience. I grew spiritually, made new friends and had loads of fun. I can’t wait for next year!

Bandmaster Gary Rose (Kettering Citadel)

Youth Makes Music 2025 was a truly unforgettable experience. After a week of dedicated rehearsals, these young musicians delivered a concert that resonated with musical brilliance and heartfelt spirituality.

From the stirring opening of James Curnow’s ‘Faith Is the Victory’ by the TYB, it was clear that this was going to be a special evening. The TYC’s performance of Dan Forrest’s ‘The Music of Living’ was exquisitely rendered, showcasing their vocal maturity and sensitivity. ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’, arranged by Stephen Pelley, was given a fresh and vibrant interpretation.

The combined power of both groups in ‘Holy Spirit, You Are Welcome Here’ set a tone of reverence and joy, with the capacity congregation joining in for the old hymn ‘Holy, Holy, Holy’, which was skillfully woven into the song. The TYC’s subsequent renditions of ‘I Surrender’ and ‘Glow’ were captivating, and ‘The Mighty River’ was a nostalgic hat tip to the 1980s.

‘The Present Age’ showcased the band’s ability to tackle challenging and thought-provoking music. My son, Daniel, who was part of the band, couldn’t stop talking about the story behind the music and how Bandmaster Stephen Cobb had made sure that the young people understood its powerful message.

The second half of the concert was equally impressive. Kevin Larsson’s ‘Rejoice!’ brought a burst of celebratory energy, and the TYC’s powerful ‘Let My People Go’ was met with enthusiastic applause.

The poignant ‘A Simple Message’ and the TYB’s powerful ‘Christ in Me’ provided moments of reflection and spiritual depth. Finally, the TYC’s performance of ‘Because of Jesus’ brought the concert to a moving and uplifting conclusion.

Beyond the exceptional musical performances, it was evident that the young musicians had benefited greatly from the week of fun, fellowship and spiritual mentoring. It was a testament to the power of Christian music to inspire, uplift and unite.

Daniel said: ‘I just can’t wait for next year!’ Thanks to all the staff for their care and dedication. This week is such an important one and long may it continue.