Solfa Notation

Are you searching for the tonic solfa notation of the Boys' Brigade anthem? Whether you're a member of The Boys' Brigade in Nigeria, a band leader, choir director, or simply a fan of this inspiring hymn, you've come to the right place. The official Boys' Brigade anthem, commonly known as "Underneath the Banner" (or "Underneath the Banner of the Cross Arrayed"), is a beloved staple in parades, services, and company gatherings, especially across Nigerian BB battalions and state councils.

This hymn is frequently performed using tonic solfa (movable-do system), making it easy for beginners to learn and play on instruments like trumpets, bugles, or even voice parts in choirs. Below is a popular and widely shared version of the tonic solfa notation for the Boys' Brigade anthem, as commonly used in Nigerian BB contexts (often in E concert pitch for voice/choir, or adjusted for brass instruments).


Tonic Solfa Notation (Main Melody Line):

s : - m : - r : d : d : - | t : d : r : - de : r : re : m : - |
f : m : l : s s : - f : m : - r : s : s : - |
fi : s : - : - s : ta w : - l : m : s : - f : - |
f : l : s : - r : m : - : - : - m : l : t : d : t : - : - : r : - m : s : s : l : s : - : - |
d : m : s : l : s - : - : r : - m : - d : f : m : r : - : - : - m : s : d : s : l : - : - s : - : - |
d : f : r : - d : d ;


Key Notes on This Tonic Solfa Notation (Essential for Accurate Performance):

This tonic solfa notation follows the traditional style popular among Nigerian Boys' Brigade bands and hymns, typically set in E concert pitch (though tonic solfa is movable-do, so you can transpose it easily to match your instrument, choir, or band setup). Dashes (-) represent held or sustained notes for proper phrasing and rhythm, while colons (:) clearly separate individual beats or pulses to guide timing. Lowercase letters denote notes in the lower octave; higher octaves are implied by context or sometimes marked with primes (like d' for high do) in extended arrangements. The notation element "taw" (or similar variations) usually indicates a lowered "te" (ta) combined with a hold or sustain ("w") for expressive effect. This version captures the core melody covering both the verse and chorus as sung or played during parades, church services, and official ceremonies. Keep in mind that slight regional variations or custom arrangements may exist depending on your local BB company, state council, or bandmaster—always cross-check with your brigade's official band leader for the exact rendition used in your area.

Full Lyrics for "Underneath the Banner" (Boys' Brigade Anthem)

Verse 1
Underneath the banner
Of the Cross arrayed,
Lord we ask Thy blessing
On The Boys' Brigade;
Thou art our Commander
And Thy soldiers we,
And in Christian warfare
We would honour Thee.

Chorus
Underneath the banner
Of the Cross arrayed,
Lord we ask Thy blessing
On The Boys' Brigade.