MUSIC

The Houston Brass Band presents Full on Brass for its Zilkha Hall concert debut.

 Prepare to be astounded as you listen to the vibrant sound of 35 top brass and percussionists playing a wide selection of music ranging from Holst’s Jupiter to well known Disney classics. Hear brass instruments as you have never heard them played before!

What is a British-Style Brass Band?  The instrumentation of a British brass band does away with all woodwinds and the French horns found in the typical American concert band, while adding some instruments not normally found there. Instrumentation consists of: Eb soprano and Bb cornets, Bb flugelhorn, Eb tenor horns, Bb baritones and euphoniums, tenor and bass trombones, Eb and Bb tubas and percussion. A brass band typically has 28-35 players.

The British-style brass band is not a new development. Brass bands were popular in England and America in the 1800′s and into the 20th century. In the 20th century, the American bands began to morph into the current concert band style so popular in the schools today, which include woodwinds. However, the British kept the older brass band tradition in the form of community and company-sponsored bands. The tradition continues today with bands engaging in fierce competition and lots of new music being written.

The British-style brass band is gaining in popularity today in America, and there are some excellent brass bands around the country. Though there is less emphasis here on competition, contests are held regularly by organizations such as the North American Brass Band Association (NABBA).

This concert is ideal for music lovers of all ages. Bring the family and enjoy Houston's very own British-style Brass Band.