Comments by Andrew Wainwright
Deus Solus (meaning ‘God Alone’) was composed for the Melbourne Staff Band’s 130th anniversary at the request of Bandmaster Ken Waterworth. It is based on three Christian tunes – the 18th century hymn O God, our help in ages past (S.A.S.B 47), and the more contemporary songs God and God alone (Phill McHugh) and Chris Bowater’s Faithful God (S.A.S.B. 360). The work begins quietly and with a sense of the unknown, with references to O God, our help in ages past, alluding to the formation and early days of the band. The words of the first verse read:

O God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal Home.

After the introductory section, the tune God and God alone is presented, the sentiments of which have been central to the mission of the band during its 130 years, and its purpose of serving God through music. In the central section we hear the beautiful worship chorus Faithful God, which pays tribute to the faithfulness of those who have served as members of the band throughout the years, and the undeniable faith God has shown to all those associated with the band.

The final section draws reference again to O God, our help in ages past, before a recapitulation of God and God alone, which brings the piece to a majestic conclusion as we ponder on the words of the last verse:

God and God alone
Will be the joy of our eternal Home.
He will be our one desire,
Our hearts will never tire
Of God and God alone.

https://samusicindex.com/brass/deus-solus/11771