When Passion Becomes A Profession
Territorial Music & Creative Arts Ministries Secretary Brett Tolcher can pinpoint exactly how his love for music began. It started when someone put a cornet in his hand, and his uncle, William Himes, former Territorial Music & Gospel Arts Secretary and Order of the Founder recipient, became his first music teacher. It sparked a passion that would eventually put him on a career path with The Salvation Army in the Central Territory.
Brett is a fourth generation Salvationist. While in elementary school, he joined The Salvation Army Youth Band, which led to him pursuing both music and business degrees in college. Through an internship and a full-time fundraising position at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, Brett continued playing music at a Salvation Army Corps and The Chicago Staff Band which he was a member of since 2007.
“I never dreamed that one day I would be The Chicago Staff Band Music Director and working for The Salvation Army Central Territory, but I felt called to do it,” he said. “The Lord opened doors for me, and I walked through them.”
While pursuing a master’s degree in business administration, Brett heard The Salvation Army would be hiring for what became his current role.
“When I saw the position was open, my wife and I had been talking about having kids. I started thinking about how important it was to have the right person in this position, both spiritually and musically. I kept recommending friends and people I thought would be excellent candidates. I wanted as many talented people as possible to apply for the job,” Brett explained.
“I wanted to make sure I knew exactly what I was telling people to pursue, so I read the job description. When I realized it was a unique mix of music, business, and relationship development—it sounded perfect for me! I spent a lot of time asking the Lord for guidance in my career, and I understood that if I didn’t apply for it, I shouldn’t come back whining to the Lord asking what he wanted me to do next,” he laughed.
As a result, Brett experienced peace when he interviewed and subsequently accepted the position. He feels the mission of The Salvation Army puts his work in perspective every day, and he enjoys the opportunity to share music with others.
“I would encourage anyone considering a career at The Salvation Army to start by exploring the programs and services we offer and do some volunteering. Find something you’re passionate about and go from there. Personally, I consider myself blessed to help connect others at different levels through music and the arts,” Brett said.
If you or someone you know is looking for a career where their efforts will be #DoingTheMostGood, visit https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/usc/employment/