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Local Troupe London Bound
By Patti Pfeiffer
Their music has impacted lives and touched hearts for nearly a decade. They've preformed before the rich and famous such as Ross Perot; raised funds for St. Jude Children's Charity and their sounds have soothed the hearts of Wounded Heroes of Texas.
The orchestra has traveled near and far entertaining and enriching others in the Metroplex, across the Lone Star State, throughout the nation. Now they're going global. And going global in a big way. This local musical group is going to the Olympics, to wow athletes and spectators alike.
Called Joshua Experience, members of the 30-member Big Band Orchestra and vocal group, come from throughout the Dallas-area and their purpose is a higher calling. They're on a mission from God, giving their all in an effort to spread the Gospel of Christ through the sound of music -- a rare combination of jazz and Christian-themed lyrics.
"They give their time, energy and resources just to be a 'Praise Instrument. 'I've never been a part of such a dedicated group, been more honored to share a stage and am humbled to be part of this group. And I've never enjoyed my life more."
A renowned saxophone player, Larry is no music industry novice. He has been in the entertainment business for over forty years, both as a night club owner and performer in star-studded venues such as Las Vegas, Tahoe, Hollywood and Hong Kong. Before beginning the orchestra, Larry led a luxurious lifestyle traveling the world aboard luxury cruise ships and playing his sax.
According to the orchestra's website, Larry's internationally known as 'The Saxman' and played with music legends like Tony Bennett, Al Hurt, Judy Garland, Pete Fountain, Bob Hope and many more.
Then "one day, while on a cruise ship in the Indian Ocean, God clearly spoke to Larry's heart, inspiring him to use his musical gifts for a higher purpose. From this new vision 'The Joshua Experience' was born, creating a new sound of worship... From the quiet sounds of the clarinet to the blast of the trumpets, this collection of professional big band musicians and singers from a variety of backgrounds and denominations send their message of faith, hope and love to all. Their only mission is to take the message of Christ's salvation with this unique format throughout the world."
They obviously have a direct line to God. When a reliable, permanent mode of transportation was needed, they prayed. Their answer came in the form of an extravagant bus donated by a gentleman who was so enthralled after listening to a song written by Larry and performed by his orchestra, that he inquired as to their needs -- then delivered.
The invitation to fly to London and perform for Olympians is likewise, an answer to prayer and an opportunity to do what they have been called to do and love doing. "There will be hundreds of thousands of people in London. We've been asked to perform over at 50 churches and locations. Over 70 percent of Europeans don't know the love of Christ, but they love jazz. This isn't a performance. It's a mission trip," said Larry.
The band director's excitement is apparent as he details their upcoming adventure, describing the uniforms the troupe will wear. "Everywhere we go, people will see all of us dressed in our Eskimo-like suits and ask what country we're from, it'll be a chance for us to share with them all about the Kingdom we are from."
As they do not and never have charged for performances, the band is relying on faith--in the form of donations -- to make the trip happen. Cost of airfare for over 30 musicians and support staff is staggering. Likewise, accommodations have not been finalized. And their lodging will not be three-star or any star hotel but rather homes. The group will be depending on churches and their members to open their homes in order to cut down on cost. After all, God's work is not about comfort or luxury.
To learn more about Joshua Experience of book a performance, visit their website at www.joshuaexperience.com
Patti Pfeiffer is a columnist for Star Local News, freelance writer and author. She can be reached at pattip913@msn.com
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