The Triumph of Peace (Eric Ball) - Melbourne Staff Band

What an incredible piece of music this is, telling a story of two conflicting themes that ultimately points clearly to the hope every Christian has in Jesus Christ. The piece points to the theme of 'temporal power' in our world, heard at the outset of the arrangement and recurring in various forms. The changing tonality at times gives a sense of insecurity, which is very much the reality of the world we live in. That theme is contrasted against the message of the ultimate hope we have, pointing to the 'spiritual power' of God that has broken through for all of humanity. This is first heard as a prayer in the form of a cornet solo, finally being echoed in the triumphant conclusion. The theme highlights words commencing, ' Peace in our time, O Lord,' by John Oxenham. This beautiful melody has become much loved and is synonymous within The Salvation Army with our prayers for peace in our world. Ironically written not long before the outbreak of WWII, the message of hope remains relevant and just as powerful for us today.