Why We Sing

Songs of joy, hope, peace and love.

The International Staff Songsters (ISS) has a special role at the forefront of Salvation Army vocal music making in the UK and around the world. We believe  passionately in the power of music and singing to share God’s love and to bring people and communities together. 

We were founded in 1980 to sing 'heart songs'. Today, we carry on this founding legacy and sing a wide range of praise hymns, classical songs and contemporary choral music. Our current repertoire includes music by composers from The Salvation Army and artists such as Dan Forrest, Will Todd, Ola Gjeilo, Mark Hayes and John Rutter.

Wherever we go, we strive to introduce people to Jesus and his power to change lives. We are blessed to sing in many different places - in cathedrals, churches, concert venues, and Salvation Army centres - and every Christmas at London's Royal Albert Hall. We also enjoy meeting and sharing with local singers when we lead vocal workshops in a variety of community settings. 

Since our founding we have regularly toured other countries, including Argentina, Uruguay, Norway, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Kenya and several visits to the US and Canada. 

As well as our ministry as part of the ISS, we are active members of our local Salvation Army corps (church) in different parts of England and Wales. We have a range of backgrounds and occupations and come together once a week to rehearse in central London (currently Regent Hall Salvation Army). 

We are conducted by Dorothy Nancekievill who is a Honorary Associate of the Royal Academy of Music. Dorothy was formerly Head of Farringtons School in Kent and previously Director of Music at Wells Cathedral School.

Our season run from September to the following July, with a short break in June. Once a month, during this season we visit a Salvation Army centre to present a Saturday festival and Sunday worship service. See details on the Upcoming Events page. 

Profits from recordings (sold via www.sps-shop.com) and at our events support the work of The Salvation Army. 

For enquiries about the International Staff Songsters, contact the ISS secretary by emailing: info@salvationarmy.org.uk