Salvation Army band strikes a chord with Brook View residents
Residents at Brook View care home in West Moors were treated to an uplifting afternoon of music and memories, thanks to a special visit from the Ringwood Salvation Army Band.
The event was organised by Companion Elizabeth Carpagnano, who shares close ties with the band through her husband, Major Emanuele Carpagnano, leader of the local Salvation Army corps. Both Elizabeth and Emanuele are actively involved with the organisation and worked together to bring the band to the home’s dining room for an hour-long performance.
Several residents, including Iona Midlane, Pam Clark and David Vincent, had fond recollections of hearing the Salvation Army band in their earlier years and expressed excitement at the opportunity to hear them live once again.
The band delivered a varied programme of traditional marches and singalong favourites. A highlight came during a lively rendition of The Happy Wanderer, when residents joined in enthusiastically—particularly enjoying the chorus’s spirited “ha ha ha ha ha ha” refrain.
A quartet of ladies added to the festive mood by playing tambourines during Star Lake, with Elizabeth among the performers. She also sang a moving solo of ‘Mid All the Traffic of the Ways’, while the seven-member choir performed two pieces that had the audience tapping their feet.
Resident Wendy Lucas said: “As a long-term resident at Brook View, I’d like to say how much the visit from the Salvation Army Band has been appreciated and enjoyed. Elizabeth’s work here is very much admired—it was lovely to see the person who plays piano for all the backing tracks for our Silver Brook Choir. Singing in the choir is one of the highlights of our week.”
Pam Clark added: “It was a brilliant afternoon, full of beautiful nostalgic music and excellently played, bringing back many very happy childhood memories.”
Major Carpagnano compered the programme, offering reflections and introductions throughout, while Companion Christine closed the event with thanks to the band and choir.