The sound of a cornet pierces the morning air, followed by the steady rhythm of a drum. As the band marches down the street, people pause—some out of curiosity, others because the music awakens something deep within them. A hymn is played, the lyrics speaking of grace and hope, and before the tune ends, hearts begin to stir.
This is music in mission. For us as Salvationists, music isn’t just an art form; it’s a God-given tool to spread the message of salvation. From the earliest days of our Movement, music has been one of the ways of reaching the world for Christ, and it continues to shape our ministry today.
Our Musical Heritage
The Salvation Army’s use of music began as a practical strategy. William Booth understood that to take the Gospel to the streets, we needed to meet people where they were—and music was the key. Familiar tunes, infused with new lyrics of hope and redemption, became an irresistible way to draw people in.
Brass bands were formed, tambourines were shaken, and the people of God sang with joy. Our music was never about performance or perfection; it was about proclamation. It was about declaring, through sound and song, that Jesus saves.
That heritage lives on. Whether it’s the powerful sound of a divisional band leading worship at Easter, the humble strum of a guitar at a small outpost meeting, or a group of musicians leading a congregation in contemporary worship, music remains central in our mission.
In many Corps today, contemporary music has become a key way to engage with new generations. Acoustic guitars, drums, and keyboards now blend with brass instruments to create worship that is vibrant and relevant. While the sound may evolve, the heart remains the same—worshiping God and drawing others into His presence.
As we honour this heritage and embrace new expressions of worship, we must ask ourselves: Is Christ still at the center of our music? Are we playing for the glory of God rather than the applause of people? These reflections ensure our music remains an act of worship and not simply performance.
Taking the Message to the Streets
For Salvationists, music is a way to bring the Gospel to life—especially beyond the walls of our halls. Think of an open-air meeting. The instruments start, voices rise, and before long, a crowd gathers. They may come out of curiosity or nostalgia, but they stay because the music speaks to their hearts.
We’ve seen it happen time and again. A man walking to work hears the familiar tune of “Amazing Grace” and stops in his tracks. A child tugs on her mother’s hand as the band marches past. A lonely woman hears the words, “Come home,” and feels the stirring of God’s Spirit.
Music has a way of reaching places words cannot. And when paired with the truth of the Gospel, it becomes a powerful force for transformation. This is why we must continually ask: Are we using music to serve and reach the lost, or are we content keeping it within our walls?
Music in Ministry
Music in The Salvation Army is not limited to bands and songsters. It finds its way into every aspect of our ministry. At Christmas, our carolers bring joy to shoppers and worshippers alike. In disaster zones, musicians offer melodies of comfort to those who have lost everything. In prisons and hospitals, songs of hope are sung over those who feel forgotten.
This is the beauty of Salvation Army music—it meets people in their need. It reminds them that they are seen, loved, and valued by a God who cares. Every note played, every hymn sung, every chorus led becomes a declaration of God’s love and hope.
Yet, to fulfill this calling, we must prepare spiritually as well as musically. Are we praying as much as we are practicing? Are we inviting the Holy Spirit to work through our music?
Growing the Next Generation of Musicians
One of the most exciting aspects of music in The Salvation Army is how it shapes the next generation. Across the territory, young people are being taught to play instruments, sing in choirs, and lead worship. These aren’t just music lessons—they’re opportunities for discipleship.
As young Salvationists learn to read sheet music, they also learn to read God’s Word. As they practice scales and harmonies, they develop discipline and teamwork. And as they play, they discover the joy of using their gifts to glorify God and serve others.
This next generation reminds us to reflect on how we model the heart of worship. Are we teaching them that music is a tool for mission and not just a skill to master? Are we mentoring them to carry the message of salvation into places we may never reach?
A Sound That Speaks of Hope
Psalm 150 says, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” That’s what we do as Salvationists. Through every instrument, every voice, every note, we declare the goodness of God and the hope of salvation.
Music has been, and likely always will be, a significant feature of our mission. It’s more than a tradition; it’s a testimony. It’s more than a sound; it’s a story. It’s a way for us to tell the world, “Jesus loves you, and His salvation is for you.” So, let the music play. Whether it’s on the street corner, in the community hall, in a contemporary worship setting, or in the quiet of someone’s home, let it proclaim the message we hold so dear. Let’s always ask: Is Christ at the center? Are we worshippers first? Are we using music as a tool to bring hope to others?
Because when we use music for mission, we’re not just making a melody — we’re making an eternal difference. May it be so for us Southern Africa Territory!
I love this article about Brass, Beats, and TSA and have shared it to all our musicians.