Canadian Brass

NEW AND IMPROVED STORE!

The Canadian Brass online store is unveiling a “Beta Edition!” Be sure to check out the latest upgrades to make your online shopping experience with us more enjoyable. We’ve introduced the Opening Day Soundcloud, which offers aficionados sound samples of Canadian Brass recordings on the Opening Day Entertainment label (since 2002). You’ll have the opportunity to listen to samples before making a purchasing decision. Our goal is to provide samples of all these recordings, so we are continually adding more. Visit www.canadianbrassstore.com to see the changes!

Boy Mozart is Online!

BOY MOZART is ONLINE! For the first time since the 1980s Boy Mozart is available for your viewing and listening pleasure! Written for Canadian Brass by Sonny Kompanek as a special treat for Lincoln Centre’s Mostly Mozart Festival, Chuck plays Boy Mozart in this 1980s remix of Mozart’s 1780s work, Symphony No. 40 (1788).

Penny Lane Live with special guest Ryan Anthony and DSO

Dallas audiences got a special treat this November when former Canadian Brass trumpeter, Ryan Anthony, emerged from his seat in the Dallas Symphony to join us centre stage.

Canadian Brass Christmas on Sirius XM

It is time for another Canadian Brass Christmas on SiriusXM Holiday Pops! Tune in to channel 75 on 12/18 at 5pm, 12/19 at 9pm and 12/20 at 6pm and be sure to tell us what you think!

CANADIAN BRASS RECENT EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH

Brandon Ridenour, trumpet, recently shared his memories and experiences of his trips to Tokyo and Hakodate accrediting his girlfriend, Naomi Kudo, with helping him to acclimatize to a culture and a country that is literally “on the other side of the planet from us.” Brandon’s busy schedule in Japan began with travelling to Hakodate, in northern Japan, for a live interview at the local radio station, followed immediately by his first Conn-Selmer clinic. Brandon worked with one hundred high-school students, developing breathing exercises, quick fingering techniques, and even helping one particular girl to feel more comfortable in front of an audience. Brandon and Naomi played concerts together in Hakodate and then in Tokyo where Conn-Selmer had also organized a master-class. Paralleling the attitude that Brandon maintains as trumpet player in the Canadian Brass, he emphasized the power of “simply communicating through music,” as a means of dispelling the stiffness and stifled breathing that seems to always accompany a performer’s nerves.

Eric’s journey to Seoul, South Korea, with his wife Sarah and her parents, was similarly eye-opening and encouraging. Eric and his family were received by Masa, Conn-Selmer’s Pacific representative, and were led directly to a district of Seoul where Eric would be leading the clinic. The event was co-sponsored by a company called A&M, and consisted of fifty attendees that ranged from high-school students to teachers and professionals from the local orchestras. He heard a large range of musical selections, including both standard and challenging works by Strauss, Mozart, Beethoven and Haydn, all prepared at a very high standard.





A particularly courageous student even performed a movement of a Bach cello suite. As an overall emphasis to the master class, Eric focused on presentation, i.e., how a performer presents himself to an audience from the moment he steps onto the stage until the applause ends. With invaluable help from a very qualified translator, the students, shy at first, learned to introduce themselves and the music, and how to present their performance in a confident and generous manner. This required particular courage in a room full of their peers, teachers and mentors, which Eric stressed as a huge accomplishment for these young musicians. “The reception was truly warm, welcoming, and excited by new ideas,” says Eric, “I’m looking forward to continuing our relationship with Conn-Selmer in Asia.” In fact, the Brass is slated to have its long awaited return to Japan next summer, so Pacific brass fans won’t have to wait much longer to be reunited with Eric and Brandon.

CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE!

Vince Guaraldi’s holiday classic, Christmas Time is Here, has been arranged for brass quintet by our own Brandon Ridenour. The group performed this arrangement during last year’s Christmas tour and will be featuring it again this season. You can order this arrangement now here.

During the 2011 tour the group performed the piece on a Seattle TV morning program which you can watch below.

CANADIAN BRASS GOES TO SCHOOL……

Canadian Brass is a frequent visitor to schools around the world, but this Spring had a special appearance in store for them. They came to the York School in Toronto where Chuck’s son is a horn & electronic arts student! After playing a short concert for the large group of students, the group split up and gave instrument-specific sessions.

The school wrote the Brass a few days later:

“You dazzled the music students and faculty alike with your technique and range of styles.  What a thrill for The York School to host this legendary music ensemble”.

http://video214.com/play/uXdCM8A3USWwGpPp1aFYFg/s/dark

*ALERT: Tune in to SiriusXM Pops Channel 75 TODAY to celebrate Independence Day with Canadian Brass at 1pm and 7pm est

It’s America the Beautiful all day long on SiriusXM Pops, including a tribute from the Canadian Brass.  We share with our gracious host, David Srebnik, some of our favourite patriotic music and why we’re always proud to play them.  Please enjoy some of our arrangements, including “My Country T’is of Thee,” and “When Johnny Comes Marching Home” and a few special treats at 1pm (est) and 7pm (est) SiriusXM Pops Channel 75.

CHUCK DAELLENBACH RECEIVES LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Canadian Brass tubist and founder Charles Daellenbach has been honored at the International Tuba & Euphonium Association’s 2012 Conference in Linz Austria with their “Lifetime Achievement Award”.  Recognizing Daellenbach’s impact on the music world, presenters Dan Perantoni (Indiana University) and Robert Tucci (Bavarian Opera Orchestra) underscored a career that has taken the sound of brass to millions of listeners throughout the world.

Just out of the Eastman School of Music in 1970 with a PhD in music education, Daellenbach headed to Toronto, Canada and co-founded the ensemble that has put brass quintets on the musical map.  Within seven years the group was picked by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau to represent Canada in China, virtually re-opening China to Western music.  Two years later Daellenbach oversaw the ensemble’s defining appearance:  the first brass ensemble to perform on the main stage of Carnegie Hall.

CB VIDEO from Sirius XM appearance

Check out this link to our “Killer Tango” played live on SiriusXM. Canadian Brass has a wonderful relationship with this satellite radio giant.  Our most recent appearance included this work as part of a one-hour performance and interview with host David Srebnik. David is the Classical Music Format Manager at SiriusXM and a wonderful on-air personality, as you will hear as the rest of the programme appears here…

HOBBY OR LIFESTYLE: CANADIAN BRASS’ "MOST TRAVELED" FANS GET CREATIVE & SHOW THAT DEDICATION PAYS OFF

We would like to congratulate John Stover for his iPhone screen shot taken of Chuck with his “new” Vintage 2J Conn Tuba! Not only is the picture a screen shot, but also it was taken during the live feed of the record release concert at LPR in New York, 2012. Talk about commitment! As winner of our first photo contest, we are awarding him with this autographed copy of his photo as seen here, and an autographed copy of Takes Flight — the first non-piano recording on the new Steinway Label.

Rosemarie & John Stover are not your average classical music fans, and it seems they never have been. During the following year of their first Canadian Brass concert in Washington DC, the couple attended 15 concerts totaling an incredible 5000 miles, and they had only just begun. Since that first concert in 1997, the Stovers have continued to add to their (now) 350+ CB concerts attended, while managing to keep in contact with past members. Their commitment to the group’s sound over the years has allowed the Stovers to become a very unique and special part of the Canadian Brass family!!

The Stovers’ dedication has generated CB’s very own Million Mile Club. To truly appreciate this undertaking (so far, Stovers’ total distance travelled equaling almost a quarter million miles) understand that they have travelled to more cities and venues with Canadian Brass than four of the group’s current brass players.  Thus they are now the most seasoned of the Canadian Brass members, not including CB’s co-founder and tuba player of course, the resolute force himself — Chuck. The picture you see marks their 353^rd Canadian Brass concert in Markham, Ontario, April 2012.

Our thanks go out to the other contestants for sharing their photos. Of course there can only be one winner, but we encourage you to continue to post your photos of Chuck & his Conn Tuba to our facebook fan page.

We appreciate your support and keep listening!

Canadian Brass' “BRASS ROMANCE” inspired by Lady Gaga's song "BAD ROMANCE"

The mission of Brass Underground is to expand the boundaries of traditional Canadian Brass repertoire and appeal to all sorts of listeners. These “cover” arrangements come from the Brass’ time spent ”underground”- jamming and getting creative. While this may not always be the Canadian Brass music that audiences are used to, nor will they most likely hear these titles on their live performance circuit, fans are sure to enjoy this fresh side to CB!

WELCOME TO OUR NEW WEBSITE!

Canadian Brass, together with their Opening Day team, Matt Brooks, Joe Auty, Mike, Austin and MB are proud to announce the launch of this new, fresh and vibrant site! A few things are still in the workshop, a few dots still to be connected, more content to be added and a new fun platform to share…but we’re too excited to wait any longer!

NOW ON Youtube — Canadian Brass LIVE at LPR

In January 2012, Canadian Brass made its premiere performance at the prestigious (le) Poisson Rouge in New York City.  Heralding the new best-selling CD “Takes Flight“, Canadian Brass played the repertoire that made its name a worldwide success.  Now for the rest of the world this extraordinary live performance is being issued in video form here, with individual titles from that concert appearing in sequence. To start, now coordinating with the unveiling of the BRASS’ new website, are the first two titles from that live appearance: “Just a Closer Walk” and “Galliard Battaglia.”

Enjoy this opening music from “Takes Flight,” and keep an eye out as we share each piece, one by one from that memorable night!

SiriusXM Symphony Hall: CANADIAN BRASS EXCLUSIVE CONCERT COMING SOON

Tune in to Channel 76 to hear Canadian Brass as they showcase their new,
best selling CD “Takes Flight“.

This radio concert will be aired three times:

• April 30th, 9:00 PM Eastern Time
• May 4th, 6:00 PM Eastern Time
• May 6th, 6:00 PM Eastern Time

Mark these dates on your listening calendar! Canadian Brass has been enjoying a wonderful rela

tionship with SiriusXM. These exclusive concert airings mark the ensemble’s fourth live performance appearance on Symphony Hall. Wonderful music, interesting conversation and great brass playing!

Canadian Brass Inspires a New Generation of Musicians

By Laurie Enceneat

Joe and Becky Pritchard of Pritchard Music Academy are always looking for new and innovative ways to inspire their students to get excited about music. On April 16 and 17, the couple achieved this goal in an amazing way, both for their students and the entire Gaithersburg community.

Brahms On Brass is JUNO NOMINATED!

TAKES FLIGHT CD's & takes flight RINGTONES!

TAKES FLIGHT CD’s & takes flight RINGTONES free for our fans and available in digital format too!

NOW AVAILABLE:  http://www.openingday.com/ringtones/

Check out a recent review:

CANADIAN BRASS TAKES FLIGHT
Works & arrangements by Rimsky-Korsakov, Mozart, Bach…Canadian Brass 
Steinway & Sons 30008

Artistic Quality: 10/Sound Quality: 10

If there’s anything guaranteed in life it’s that you will be thoroughly entertained, uplifted, and satisfied when you listen to a Canadian Brass recording—any Canadian Brass recording. This is the outfit that defined—and still commands pre-eminence in—the world of brass quintet music and performance, and here the group (with only one remaining original member, tuba virtuoso Chuck Daellenbach) offers a killer program beginning with Flight of the Bumblebee and ending with Don Gillis’ arrangement of the gospel standard Just a Closer Walk with Thee. There’s all the wondrous technical bedazzlement and trademark humor, elevated to inimitable artistic heights by the awe-inspiring polish and always-present musicality. You’ll love that juxtaposed “When the saints” and the “Hallelujah” chorus—classic Canadian Brass, as you will cherish the gorgeous and very moving Quintet by Michael Kamen, the Gabrieli Canzona, and the Bach Air. Indispensable!—David Vernier

WQXR – ALBUM OF THE WEEK CANADIAN BRASS GETS A MAJOR REBOOT!

The Canadian Brass has probably done more to popularize the modern brass quintet than any ensemble before it. The group has managed to entertain audiences with popular arrangements and zany choreography but also appeal to brass aficionados with challenging renditions of Gabrieli, Palestrina and Bach.

COME TO OUR "TAKES FLIGHT" RECORD RELEASE PARTY ON TUESDAY IN NYC

Le Poisson Rouge,  Greenwich Village

Tickets available in advance for $15, day of show: $20
or in advance with a CD: $25
For all ages. Doors open at 6:30

at http://lepoissonrouge.com/events/view/2958

LIVE VIDEO STREAM FROM NEW YORK CITY'S VIBRANT LPR

Tuesdays performance at Le Poisson Rouge will be streamed live at 7:30 pm Eastern Time from their website at  http://www.livestream.com/lepoissonrouge

CONTEST ANYONE?

Catch a glimpse & TAKE A PIC of CHUCK & his NEW TUBA with & without
the Brass in Indiana tonight, at NAMM, or at the LPR in NYC

READ the FOLLOWING for GAME RULES
and Good Luck!

POST YOUR PICTURE of Chuck & his Tuba on the Canadian Brass fan page.
We’ll all VOTE on the BEST ONE by clicking the like button.
The winner gets an autographed copy of their picture, a signed “TAKES FLIGHT” CD, & their photo on the CB website with a photo credit
AND You Must be a Fan of the Brass’ page, of course!

Entry deadline is midnight on Wed, the 25th of Jan.
Vote by midnight of the 26th
and the winner announced on the 27th!

Good Luck Everyone!

https://www.facebook.com/canadianbrass 

STEINWAY, BACH, CONN, ARKIV & CANADIAN BRASS; A PERFECT QUINTET!It Doesn't Get Better Than This

CANADIAN BRASS TAKES FLIGHT WITH NEW RECORDING
ON CONN-SELMER INSTRUMENTS

Premiere Release on Steinway & Sons Label Features
New Conn-Selmer Instruments

Canadian Brass Takes Flight [available January 31, 2012 SRP $17.99] features members of the world’s most famous brass ensemble in their premiere release on the Steinway & Sons record label. Canadian Brass are now exclusive Conn-Selmer artists and perform on 24-karat gold-plated Bach and Conn instruments.

The group has performed in virtually every major concert hall in the world, has more than 200 published arrangements, and has sold well over 2 million albums worldwide. They’ve had a plethora of educational initiatives over the years including work with El Sistema in Venezuela. Canadian Brass has shaped the recent and emerging history of brass performance and, as shown by its new members, has a keen eye on the next generation of professional players.

Chuck Daellenbach of Canadian Brass noted, “We are so excited about the sound of the ensemble on our new instruments. This is the sound we all grew up with: the amazing brass tradition that started right here in America. That, together with a group of players that are international superstars, gave us the idea to record the ‘hits that made the original group famous.”

Canadian Brass truly takes flight with this new album – their first recording with all of the new permanent members of the ensemble – Eric, Chris, Brandon, Achilles (replacing the recently retired founding member, Eugene Watts,) and Chuck. It is also the first recording they have made with their new custom-made gold-plated instruments built by Conn-Selmer. The repertoire features favorite encores, new arrangements, and world premieres.

Having started with a very limited base, Canadian Brass has created their own musical world by transcribing, arranging and commissioning more than 200 works, including critically acclaimed compositions from Michael Kamen, Luther Henderson, Bramwell Tovey, Don Gillis and more. With an extensive worldwide touring schedule, Canadian Brass is an important pioneer in bringing brass music to mass audiences everywhere.

Takes Flight is the first non-piano release on the Steinway label.  A new direction – but one that continues to follow the mission of capturing exceptional artists – performing on the finest instruments, in state-of-the art sound quality.

Canadian Brass featured on "the Best of Linked 2011"

This Saturday at 9 am and Monday night at 11 pm (On SiriusXM Pops Channel 75) along with Wynton Marsalis, Christopher O’Riley, Anne Akiko Meyers and Maya Beiser.

Brahms Chorale Prelude 10, arr. Ralph Sauer

This track “Chorale Prelude No.10, arr. Ralph Sauer” features the ensemble’s new trombonist Achilles Liarmakopoulos, and was rerecord for CANADIAN BRASS’ premiere Steinway & Sons label release. The album is the first recording with all of the new permanent members of the ensemble: Chuck Daellenbach (tuba), Chris Coletti and Brandon Ridenour (trumpets), Achilles Liarmakopoulos (trombone) and Eric Reed (horn). After 40 years, the BRASS have maintained a remarkable consistency in their style and virtuosity, even as the individual members have gradually changed.

This is also the first recording the BRASS have made with their new custom-made gold-plated Bach & Conn instruments built by Conn-Selmer. The repertoire features favorite encores, new arrangements, and world premieres. As with their other recent releases, this disc is an audiophile sonic blockbuster, produced by Dixon Van Winkle and MB Daellenbach.

Canadian Brass Takes Flight: FLIGHT OF THE BUMBLE BEE

This 2012 video, “Flight of the Bumblebee,” is the title tune on CANADIAN BRASS’ premiere Steinway & Sons label release, and, the first recording with all of the new permanent members of the ensemble: Chuck Daellenbach (tuba), Chris Coletti and Brandon Ridenour (trumpets), Achilles Liarmakopoulos (trombone) and Eric Reed (horn)

The recording is available worldwide on the arkivmusic.com site.

Free 2 Track Promotion sidebar item

Free 2 Track Promotion

Brahms on Brass sidebar item

Brahms on Brass

Spirit Dance sidebar item

Spirit Dance

The Classics sidebar item

The Classics

FREE RINGTONES AVAILABLE NOW!

CANADIAN BRASS in CHINA for the THIRD TIME in 18 MONTHS

Canadian Brass in Residency at University of Toronto

The Faculty of Music of the University of Toronto has formed a new relationship with Canadian Brass. The Brass gave a public concert October 31st to mark the beginning of this new residency, which featured the addition of three performance majors on stage with them for the playing of the Brahms’ Ballade.

NEW CANADIAN BRASS ALBUM, BRAHMS ON BRASS, HITS BILLBOARD’S CLASSICAL CHART – 21C Media Group

Brahms on Brass, the new album by Canadian Brass, hit the Billboard classical chart upon its release last month and is making news as a state-of-the-art recording that takes brass playing to a new level.  From “the men who put brass music on the map” (Washington Post) Brahms on Brass features adaptations from the keyboard to brass quintet of the Sixteen Waltzes, Opus 39, the Ballade in D minor, Opus 10, No. 1, and the Eleven Chorale Preludes for Organ, Opus 122.

Great New Review of the Brahms on Brass CD!

New Classical Tracks: Brahms – From Keyboards to Brass

Brahms On Brass – Canadian Brass – Part 4/4

Brahms On Brass – Canadian Brass – Part 3/4

Brahms On Brass – Canadian Brass – Part 2/4

Brahms On Brass – Canadian Brass – Part 1/4

Canadian Brass perform on Sirius XM special program for the 10th anniversary of 9-11

Tune in to Sirius-XM Symphony Hall  to hear Canadian Brass perform on a special program for the 10th anniversary of 9-11.

Along with some other performers and ensembles, we have selected 2 pieces that we feel will provide comfort on this solemn anniversary.

We are honoured to be chosen by Sirius-XM Symphony Hall to commemorate 9/11 thisSunday by joining such a prestigious group of artists. We hope you enjoy our contributions: Michael Kamen’s “Quintet” and John Dowland’s madrigal, “Come Again.”

http://www.siriusxm.com/symphonyhall

http://www.facebook.com/symphonyhall

CANADIAN BRASS: BRAHMS ON BRASS PROJECT

The inspiration for Canadian Brass to undertake the music of Brahms came from an innovative adaptation of the 1897 Eleven Chorale Preludes for Organ, Op. 122 by arranger and trombone virtuoso Ralph Sauer. Ralph’s comprehensive knowledge of the brass quintet medium and his high regard for these Preludes led him to this mission. In Ralph’s words, the Preludes represent “Brahms’ musical testament. Profound meditations on life and death, the Preludes can be considered the quintessence of his art.”

Canadian Brass on the charts with Stars & Stripes

The Canadian Brass celebrate the patriotic season with a return to the Billboard Charts this week.

Scoring an impressive #11, Stars & Stripes – Canadian Brass Salute America is chock full of patriotic songs, military anthems and stirring marches. Sixteen tracks in all, the CD features replica drums from the Colonial and Civil War eras, all toasting America and the American Spirit.
Congratulations Canadian Brass!

Stars & Stripes – Canadian Brass Salute America (ODR 7382) is available now.

Farewell Malcolm Forsyth, a longtime friend of Canadian Brass

The Canadian Brass is very sad to hear about the passing of Malcolm Forsyth.  Malcolm was a longtime friend of the Brass as well as composer of great importance in its history–his “Golyardes Grounde” is now recognized as a standard work in the brass quintet repertoire.  In fact, it was this piece that became the example of Canadian composition on our first visit to China in 1977.

We first met Malcolm in the early 70′s at the Banff Centre.  The electricity amongst us was immediate since he was not only a wonderful composer but a fine trombonist.  We spent many, many hours over the years discussing the future of brass ensembles as a legitimate member of the chamber music world, the possibilities within the classical music world for brass and the challenges around being taken seriously after missing the Beethoven & Haydn eras.  Because of his compositional skills, and particularly the intimate knowledge of brass instruments, he was able to create masterpieces that will help ensure a long life for the brass ensemble.

Malcolm, your work lives on in a remarkable catalog of major compositions!

GolyardesGrounde

Canadian Brass to be represented by IMG Artists

IMG Artists is delighted to announce the general management of Canadian Brass effective immediately. Five tremendous brass musicians — each a virtuoso in his own right — form the legendary Canadian Brass. With an international reputation as one of the most popular brass ensembles today, the Canadian Brass has truly earned the distinction as “the world’s most famous brass group.”

Masters of concert presentations — from formal classical concerts to music served up with lively dialogue and theatrical effects — the Canadian Brass has developed a uniquely engaging stage presence and rapport, thrilling audiences everywhere.  The group, renowned for its brilliant virtuosity and unparalleled diversity of its repertoire, also features performances with orchestra, concert band, choir and more.  Repertoire highlights of the 2012-13 season include varied programs such as selections from their upcoming release Brahms on Brass; a festive holiday program; a patriotic Stars and Stripes tribute as well as their signature music-through-the-ages program.  The hallmark of any Canadian Brass performance is entertainment, spontaneity, virtuosity and, most of all, fun.

Education plays a key role in the story of Canadian Brass and each member is uniquely attuned to working with players of all ages. On their travels around the world, they frequently give master classes and are excited to work with students and young audiences.

Canadian Brass records exclusively for Opening Day Entertainment in partnership with ArkivMusic.

Canadian Brass performs on “Artisan” model 24 karat gold plated instruments supported through a new partnership with Conn-Selmer, the leading American manufacturer and distributor of band and orchestral instruments.

For more information, contact Rob Stogsdill (rstogsdill@imgartists.com) and Stephanie Reiss (sreiss@imgartists.com).  www.imgartists.com.

Sirius XM's "Linked – Connecting the Classics" May 21 & 23 features interview with Chuck & Brandon

Peter Cummings’s interview with Canadian Brass members, Brandon Ridenour and Chuck Daellenbach, will air next Saturday, May 21 at 9am with repeats on Sunday the 22nd at 1 and 8pm and Monday the 23rd at 11 pm. We hope you’ll join us!

Click here for more information.

Canadian Brass Inks Deal With Conn-Selmer And ArkivMusic

Conn-Selmer and ArkivMusic Partner with Canadian Brass

Elkhart, IN – Conn-Selmer, Inc. and ArkivMusic, subsidiaries of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc., announced today that they have entered into a partnership with the legendary brass quintet, Canadian Brass.  The partnership will include collaboration on new recordings of the group’s repertoire of brass standards and original arrangements as well as educational outreach worldwide.

“We are thrilled to be working with such a talented group,” said Mike Kamphuis, Conn-Selmer’s Sr. Director of Marketing.  “With our historic branded Bach and C.G. Conn instruments and continued outreach to music educators, we saw this partnership as the perfect fit. We look forward to working with Canadian Brass in product development and music educational efforts in North America and abroad.”

Greek god to replace Superstar! Achilles appointed trombonist with Canadian Brass.

Last year when trombonist Gene Watts told us he was leaving our group after forty years we knew we needed a superstar to replace him–Keith Dyrda is that superstar.  After an incredible year performing together Keith told us he was indeed going to follow through on his original plan to attend graduate school.  On hearing this, trumpeter Brandon Ridenour summed up our feelings about his time with us, “Keith has been an incredible addition to the group. He is a consummate professional and a wonderful player. We all wish him luck and know that our paths will cross in the future.  He is definitely part of our Canadian Brass family now.”

In light of Keith’s decision, we of course needed to search for a new colleague. Canadian Brass is delighted to announce that internationally known trombonist Achilles Liarmakopoulos is joining our group.  Achilles, a native of Greece, is an established and award-winning trombone soloist dedicated to performing new pieces and important works revived from the archives as well as standard repertoire. He has premiered many pieces from emerging composers who have written specifically for him. Achilles has given solo recitals in the U.S.A, China, Spain, France, the Netherlands, Austria, Finland and Greece and has performed as a member of many leading orchestras worldwide.

Chuck Daellenbach remarked, “We are thrilled to have Achilles join us. He is young, charismatic and one of the finest trombonists performing today.  We all love his presence, focus and personality and think he will be an ideal team member of our ensemble.”

Achilles is a graduate of Yale University, The Curtis Institute of Music, the San Francisco Conservatory and the Philippos Nakas Conservatory.  He was recently appointed principal trombone of the Greek Radio Symphony – ERT.  Just this year Achilles saw the release of his solo project featuring Piazzolla compositions on the Naxos label.

Achilles says this about joining the Brass, “There are no words to express how excited and honored I feel to be part of this legendary and phenomenal group.”  For his first appearance with the ensemble, Achilles will return from Greece in June to join us in a soon-to-be-announced performance.

For more about Achilles:
http://achillestrombone.com/
www.canadianbrass.com
www.facebook.com/canadianbrass
www.facebook.com/openingdayentertainment

Canadian Brass Celebrate Their Heritage With Their First Ever Boxed Set!

Opening Day Entertainment Group is proud to announce the release of the Canadian Brass boxed set The Classics, featuring works from Renaissance, Baroque and Classical composers.  It is a first for the venerable brass group as it becomes their first boxed set collection ever assembled.  This three CD set with 49 tracks, many made available in the US market for the first time, will be released April 5, 2011.

The Classics (ODR 7400) feature three full-length CDs.  Pachelbel to Purcell includes their classic version of Pachelbel Canon, Mouret’s Rondeau (familiar as the Theme to Masterpiece Theatre) and the wedding staple Trumpet Voluntary. Between Bach & Handel features all-time works by these two great Baroque giants including Suite from Water Music, the famous Largo from Xerxes and a rousing Hallelujah Chorus by Handel along with a tuneful “Little” Fugue in G minor, an expansive Toccata and Fugue in D minor and the popular Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring all by Bach. With Mozart & More, the Brass explore classical and romantic composers performing works by Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Bizet, Paganini and more. The final track, Amazing Grace, makes for the perfect finale creating a treasure trove of classic Canadian Brass tracks of  nearly 2 ½ hours. A must-have collection for every Canadian Brass fan!

Click here to order your copy today.

TO OUR FRIENDS IN JAPAN

Our hearts are broken. Seeing the horrifying results of the earthquake immediately brought to mind images of the thousands of friends we have made over the years in Japan, a country we always look forward to visiting. We have performed throughout Japan since 1980, returning again and again. The entire Canadian Brass family sends our deepest condolences to the people of Japan, particularly those who have lost loved ones in the earthquake and tsunamis. We stand with Japan as they begin the difficult task of recovering and rebuilding from this disaster. We will search for ways we can directly help you in your restoration efforts as you face such difficult times.

The Canadian Brass is proud to announce the launch of the new website of their label

Toronto – The Canadian Brass is proud to announce the launch of the new website of their label, Opening Day Entertainment Group. We encourage everyone to please check out this wonderful new website and explore every page at  www.openingday.com. The website has many new features, including detailed information on all the Opening Day artists, CD reviews, features, photos, label news and more. A big part of the website is its unique shopping experience that offers a wide selection of great products. Here you’ll find a store dedicated to the Canadian Brass where you can discover CDs, DVDs, instruments, brass supplies, Canadian Brass clothing and printed music of all kinds, including hundreds of new products never before offered in the original Canadian Brass store. It’s everything any Canadian Brass fan could want and more.

There are other shops too including the Opening Day store, the Sheet Music store with music for just about every instrument, a store featuring the stylish Smart Quote Shirts ® and finally for fans of the guitar, Strings & Things. It all makes for a wonderful bounty of music and music related items for everyone. Shopping and browsing has never been easier as navigation between the stores is seamless. Shoppers can select items from each store if they choose and still have the convenience of a single shopping cart and one checkout. In addition, the new store allows your personal information to be stored safely and securely so you do not have to enter your shipping and payment information again the next time you visit.

As the Opening Day stores are brand new, we will be keeping the original Canadian Brass store open temporarily for the next few weeks to help make the transition go as smoothly as possible.  We hope you enjoy the new website and all its magnificent features and thank you for your patronage.

Canadian Brass perform LIVE on China's famed Hunan TV Spring Festival Gala

Canadian Brass back in China by Eric Reed

In 40+ years of music-making, the Canadian Brass have reached many milestones:  becoming the first chamber ensemble to perform in the main auditorium at Carnegie Hall, recording over 90 albums, and being the first Western arts group invited to enter China, among many others. A couple weeks ago, however, the group set a record even for itself by performing live for an estimated half billion people!

A Note from the Road

A Note from the Road
by Eric Reed

January 19, 2011

In three months since joining the Canadian Brass, I’ve learned so much! It has been an amazing experience, and it’s an incredible honor to be a part of a group with such a storied place in the history of chamber music. Since September, we’ve been to the east and west coasts of North America and everywhere in between. We spent a week in Venezuela, and are headed to China in less than a week! It’s tough to keep up with this schedule, and to maintain some sort of a normal life when I’m at home in New York City. But like I said, I’ve gained a lot from the experience so far, and would love to share some of this perspective on chamber music, the Canadian Brass and life as a musician with the HornZone readers!

SPIRIT DANCE nominated for a Juno Award for Instrumental Album of the Year!

SPIRIT DANCE, the new CD from pianist David Braid and Canadian Brass, has just been nominated for a Juno Award for Instrumental Album of the Year!

In this full album of original jazz-inspired compositions written and arranged by David Braid, a fusion of jazz and classical elements creates an array of new sounds that are intimate, spontaneous and warm.

“David Braid – evoking a curious combination of Bill Evans & George Gershwin!” – All About Jazz

“The Canadian Brass showed themselves to be entertainers who also happen to be really crack players … the playing was virtuosic.” -The Boston Globe

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Canadian Brass & NACO concert big success!

Recently the Canadian Brass made a visit to the National Arts Centre Orchestra of Ottawa to perform three concerts January 12 – 15, kicking off 2011 with a grand flourish.  All three concerts were sold-out and drew rave reviews from each ecstatic and appreciative audience. Using today’s technology, Canadian Brass social media sites were lit up with well wishes, acclaim and plenty of cheers. Connecting directly with our fans has been a hallmark of Canadian Brass concerts since day one, and now through the means of Facebook and Twitter – our fans have reached out

to us and spoken.

Just a few we’d like to share…

“Awesome show last night in Ottawa! Can’t wait till you guys come back!”

“Wonderful concert at the NAC! Such a great group dynamic makes for a great evening of fun”

“I am in awe. Concert tonight was amazing!

“Fabulous show in Ottawa tonight!! Had front row seats and it was absolutely awesome!!!

“Saw tonight’s show – it was my boyfriend’s first ever classical concert (and he’s nearly 40! lol). Phenomenal, as always!!!”

We just want to offer a hearty thanks for the great reception and the incredible response.  We also ask that everyone follow us on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter – we’d love to hear from you because we know you’ll be hearing from us.  Thanks again!

Canadian Brass

Chuck Daellenbach visits with Mr. Jasmin Lalande, Assistant Artistic Administrator of National Arts Centre in Ottawa, Ontario.

Canadian Brass triumph in return to China!

The Canadian Brass, called ‘the world’s most famous brass group’ by the Washington Post, added a new chapter to their storied history with their latest tour to China.  Invited to attend the Chinese Spring Festival Gala to help celebrate the coming Chinese New Year, the Brass performed on Hunan-TV Network to an estimated audience of half billion viewers (500,000,000) on January 27th.  Along with their performance, the Brass was introduced and interviewed by Yang Lan, China’s most popular television hostess. Her fame and stature is immense in China.  Of note, she was a 2008 Beijing Olympic torchbearer as well as host at the Closing Ceremonies among her many honors and accolades.  Chuck Daellenbach, founder and tuba maestro of Canadian Brass gushed “it was a great success! Just when you think you’ve done it all, Canadian Brass, plays live to half a billion people on China’s most viewed TV network on the largest TV show of the year. Simply amazing!” The Chinese Spring Festival Gala on Hunan TV Network garners the highest audience rating of the year in China and certainly the largest audience to ever see the Canadian Brass perform.  The Hunan TV Network is located in Changsha, the capital city of Hunan – a province of south-central China on the lower reaches of Xiang River, a branch of the Yangtze River.

The Canadian Brass and China have a relationship that is far reaching. The Brass was the first western classical music group to perform in China, as part of a cultural exchange program between Canada and China in 1970. The Canadian Brass was selected by the Canadian government as cultural ambassadors, helping to open the door between the two nations.  Coming full circle, one of their first stops back then was to Changsha Province and Hunan TV Network. They were recently asked to come back in August 2010 as part of an education outreach and small tour.   After the Brass created a media stir and received rave reviews, they were invited to participate in the Chinese New Year celebration in 2011.

Canadian Brass live on the Chinese Spring Festival Gala

Canadian Brass live on the Chinese Spring Festival Gala (Chinese New Year) in Changsha, China Hunan TV Network, Jan 27th 6:30am -11am EST…the Brass at 8am EST.

The Chinese Spring Festival TV Gala is the most-watched TV show of the year! Some 300 million+ viewers will enjoy Brandon Ridenour‘s arrangement of Flight of the Bumble Bee and an interview with China’s most prominent TV Hostess, Yang Lan. Christopher Coletti‘s arrangement of Guerrilla’s Song  游击队歌  will close the segment.

Canadian Brass Back to China

For the second time this season Canadian Brass has been invited back to China.  At the end of January they will be seen on national TV for the Chinese Spring Festival Gala-Chinese New Year.  Their manager in China, Canadian Wray Armstrong, said, “this is an amazing opportunity for the Chinese audience to be reacquainted with the Canadian Brass.  Remember, this is the very same group that opened up China to Western music in 1977 immediately after the “Cultural Revolution.”

Stars & Stripes garners “Best of the Year” honors!

Fantastic Experience in Venezuela with El Sistema

To our friends,

After more than a week visiting Venezuela, we’re now home!

Our visit to Caracas to see El Sistema in action was absolutely thrilling! It was unlike anything we’ve ever experienced before and was everything that we could have imagined (and more) …and most importantly, an honour to be invited to attend.  We’d like to take this time to tell you all about the exciting things that are happening right now in music education through the efforts of El Sistema.

More than one million children have now come through El Sistema.  Broadly translated, it is a social action through music and is known as CASPM (Casa de la Acción Social por la Música) locally with 360,000 children in the program right now.  Dr. José Antonio Abreu started this incredible project 35 years ago to help local children get through material poverty and crime, built on the basis of the human right to be educated. It has survived, thrived and has been supported by all eight national governments during that time span.

Spirit Dance

Multi-award winning Canadian pianist David Braid is joined by the legendary Canadian Brass for Spirit Dance, a new album featuring jazz-inspired compositions for piano and brass quintet written by Braid.  Available now in our store!

Hornist Eric Reed to perform with Canadian Brass

October 17, 2010. The Canadian Brass is delighted to announce that hornist Eric Reed is joining the group replacing Jeff Nelsen who leaves to pursue other opportunities as well as begin his new family.  Chuck Daellenbach comments “Eric had stepped in to perform with us several times over the past year.  We were astonished how easily he blended into the group with very little available rehearsal time.  Recently, when Jeff told us of the increasing demands on his time at Indiana University as well as starting a family, he also encouraged us to ask Eric to take over his role with the Brass.  We are all very eager to have our audiences hear what led us to Eric!”

Eric Reed is a native of Indiana and began playing the horn at age nine, encouraged by his musician parents. His studies took him to Rice University and then The Juilliard School. He has already had a successful career as a member of the Harrisburg Symphony, Oregon Symphony and New World Symphony as well as his nomination as a fellow at The Academy- a music program sponsored by Carnegie Hall and the Juilliard School for the finest young professional musicians today. It is designed to develop the artistic values and skills necessary for careers that combine musical excellence with education, community engagement, advocacy, and leadership. He’s also gained valuable experience performing with the New York Philharmonic, New York City Opera, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Orchestra of St. Luke’s, Florida Orchestra and Kansas City Symphony. He has graced the orchestras of Radio City Music Hall, many Broadway Theaters (including West Side Story and South Pacific) and played with Ray Charles, Wynton Marsalis and BoyzIIMen.

Canadian Brass invited to Venezuela as part of worldwide music eduaction initiative & celebration!

October 2010 – Last fall Maestro José Antonio Abreu, one of the most honored music educators in the world, came to Toronto to receive the Glenn Gould Award, awarded every third year to a living individual in recognition of his/her contributions to music and communication. As part of the celebration he brought the sensational Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra to perform. He also invited Canadian Brass to join the Venezuela Brass Ensemble on stage for a particularly exciting and emotional performance. Now in return Maestro Abreu, and the El Sistema music education organization he founded, has personally invited Canadian Brass to join him in Venezuela November 11 – 18. Chuck Daellenbach, tuba player of the Brass and holder of a PhD in music education, was quick to sum up the opportunity to work alongside El Sistema, “It’s the most exciting thing happening in music education since the Suzuki Method hit in the 60′s!”

Canadian Brass has well been regarded for its continuing commitment to music education over the years. It has conducted master classes and given educational performances throughout the concert world – from North America to the Far East, Europe and points in between. For its work over several decades the Canadian Brass has been recognized for its dedication to music students with three Honorary Doctorates as well as awards and commendation from Interlochen Arts Academy, Midori and Friends, BMI, Music Academy of the West, Yamaha, MENC, CMEC and now El Sistema.

Newborn Rhys Oliver Nelsen has chosen Jeff & Nina as his new parents! Now the fun begins!

Congratulations to the Nelsen’s from your Canadian Brass family.

Jeff Nelsen's new recording a real winner!

New York, Sept 16, 2010 – Congratulations to Canadian Brass hornist Jeff Nelsen on his new recording of the Brahms Horn Trio, Op. 40. Jeff is joined by veteran violinist Ik-Hwan Bae and new piano sensation Naomi Kudo in an intimate reading of one of the most revered and best-loved chamber works in the classical canon.  Along with the Brahms Horn Trio is the premier recording of the Mozart Horn Quintet, K. 407, adapted for horn, violin and piano by noted arranger Tony Rickard.

The album has already gotten some notable attention.  Dale Clevenger, principal horn of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra gushed “the new Brahms Horn Trio by the wonderful hornist Jeff Nelsen of the Canadian Brass is a “MUST HEAR” performance which, I am sure, will be received with high musical and technical praise of his artistry. Enjoy!”

Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra, also offered “Jeff Nelsen is an extraordinarily sophisticated artist on the horn. A subtle wonderfully controlled and very musically satisfying account of the Brahms Horn Trio.”

This is the debut album on the new Soloists of the Canadian Brass imprint on Opening Day Records and was released on September 14, 2010.

Look for the Brahms Horn Trio featuring Jeff Nelsen wherever CDs are sold or visit www.canadianbrassstore.com and get your copy today!

Top radio stations across the country stand up and cheer for “Stars & Stripes” from the Canadian Brass!

Listen for the rousing sounds of “Stars & Stripes” across the airwaves this 4th of July!

• WFMT Chicago: New Release of the Week, starting Sunday, July 4

• Minnesota Public Radio: New Classical Tracks feature! Click here to listen.

• KDFC San Francisco: CD of the Week!

• WQXR New York – “All over it!” -  playing the CD on and around the 4th

• KING FM Seattle – Programming throughout the holiday weekend.

The CD has also been chosen by programmers at non-commercial and Top 40 stations across the country from Cincinnati to Las Vegas to Nashville!

Closer to home, Chuck Daellenbach and percussionist Robin Engelman recently talked with Toronto’s CLASSICAL 96.3 about the making of “Stars & Stripes.” Listen here: June 23 – Chuck & Robin – Canadian Brass & Nexus
Don’t spend your holiday weekend without the CD that is being called “another wow from the world’s best-known brass ensemble” (ArkivMusic.com), and had the Buffalo News asking, “Wow, who knew the Canadians felt this way about us?”

Stars & Stripes is the featured recording on “New Classical Tracks” on Minnesota Public Radio

Stars & Stripes is the featured recording on “New Classical Tracks” on Minnesota Public Radio (America Public Media) this week – starting June 28th and running throughout the July Fourth  weekend!  We invite you to check out on-air tracks, commentary and more!

New Classical Tracks is a weekly feature on-air, on-line and as a podcast.  Click here to listen now!

Stars & Stripes Canadian Brass Salute America
Order yours today and HAVE A HAPPY FOURTH!

Echo CD featured on NPR!

Recently “Echo; Glory of Gabrieli” was featured on NPR’s syndicated show The Engines of Our Ingenuity.

Click here to hear audio from the show!

Stars & Stripes explodes up the charts!

Stars & Stripes – Canadian Brass Salute America continues it amazing sales trajectory by nabbing the #2 spot on this weeks BILLBOARD charts.

New York, June 20, 2010 – After debuting at a solid #10 last week, the album zoomed up the charts again to finish the week holding the NUMBER 2 position on Billboard’s Classical Traditional chart, week ending June 13th.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect, as FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS are coming just around the corner making it the perfect summer listening album!  This chart position is unprecedented for the Brass, making this the highest chart position ever attained by any Canadian Brass album in their storied history.

Stars & Stripes – Canadian Brass Salute America (ODR 7382)

The Buffalo News raved….

“Here are 16 over-the-top tracks, featuring replica drums from the Colonial and Civil War eras, all toasting America… The themes all get impressive, imaginative treatment with their dashing fanfares and imaginative touches.”

Read the entire review

Canadian Brass, “Stars & Stripes: Canadian Brass Salute America” (Opening Day). Wow, who knew the Canadians felt this way about us? Here are 16 over-the-top tracks, featuring replica drums from the Colonial and Civil War eras, all toasting America. The drums were custom-made in Vermont, and you hear them to best advantage in “Drums of Liberty,” a salute to the drummers on the battlefield over the centuries. (Our own Father Baker was one, as a teenager, at Gettysburg.) The notes have all kinds of trivia. Who knew that an early advocate for “The Star-Spangled Banner” as our national anthem was Buffalo Bill, who played it at all his Wild West shows? Or that the jaunty, likable “Dixie” was originally an anti-slavery song by a Northerner? The themes all get impressive, imaginative treatment with their dashing fanfares and imaginative touches. The flat-footed “My Country, ’Tis of Thee” gets a burst of panache from a few bars of Aaron Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man.”Hmm. All this is making me uneasy. They must want something from us. 3½ out of 4 (M. K. G.) – The Buffalo News

Look for Stars Stripes wherever CDs are sold or visit www.canadianbrassstore.com and get your copy today!

Canadian Brass are exclusive Yamaha artists.

Canadian Brass performs at Green Cross event in Netherlands June 28, 2010.

Canadian Brass' latest release "Stars and Stripes- Canadian Brass Salute America" now available!

“Stars & Stripes: Canadian Brass Salute America” features the world’s most famous and top-selling brass ensemble in a rousing selection of works including Stars and Stripes Forever, America the Beautiful, Battle Hymn of the Republic, Hail Columbia, Shenandoah and You’re A Grand Old Flag. Military Might features the official hymns of the five branches of the military – US Army, US Navy, US Air Force, US Coast Guard and the US Marine Corps.

Canadian Brass to Perform Five Concerts In China

The world’s most famous brass group embarks upon a 5-city tour of China next week, their first return to the country for a concert tour since their groundbreaking 1977 appearances, when they were the first Western musical group into the country following the end of the Cultural Revolution.

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's National Radio program "In Tune" to talk about Keith Dyrda and the "New" Canadian Brass

CBC’s national radio program “In Tune” will talk Canadian Brass on Saturday, May 8, at 1pm EST. Click here to hear the broadcast.

Canadian Brass is delighted to announce trombonist Keith Dyrda is joining the group. Founding member Gene Watts to continue in key role.

Eugene Watts, co-founder of CANADIAN BRASS, introduces his successor:

“I had been keeping my eyes and ears open for a replacement and then suddenly Keith Dyrda appeared — he is young, charismatic, full of fun and one of the finest trombonists I have ever heard.

Canadian Brass played on radio show with CJAD Radio Montreal this past Wednesday before the Montreal Canadiens playoff game!!

Canadian Brass performed before the Montreal Canadiens playoff game this past Wednesday.

Video of Canadian Brass playing on air at CJAD!

Youppi rules!

Terrence London talks with Ronald Romm

Ronald Romm, world class trumpeter and original member of Canadian Brass was recently interviewed by Terrence London about his career and recent release on the Opening Day label.

Click here for full interview.

Nelsens Make Exciting Double Debut at NYC Opera

Nelsens Make Exciting Double Debut at NYC Opera

A recent weekend was unusually exciting for Canadian Brass Hornist Jeff Nelsen and his wife, mezzo-soprano Nina Yoshida Nelsen. Nina made her New York City Opera (NYCO) debut on Friday, March 19, singing Suzuki in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly.

Jeff was excited to return to see the show again on Sunday. Five minutes before Sunday’s 1:30 p.m. curtain, he had taken his seat in the audience and sent Nina a text with his seat location.

After being recognized by one of the orchestra’s hornists as being a member of the renowned ensemble Canadian Brass, Jeff was approached by orchestra management. The NYCO horn section was one horn player short, and they asked if he would step in–with four minutes to spare–and play the show

Canadian Brass painted violin brings crescen-dough to fund raiser.

The Canadian Brass painted a violin to be sold at the Crescen-Dough Auction in Huntsville, AL yesterday for the Painted Violin Society, which raises money to keep the HSO’s family concerts free for the community. For more information or to make a donation click here.

Chris Coletti with the Canadian Brass Violin

Read more

IU Jacobs School of Music announces Canadian Brass Collection

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — The Indiana University Jacobs School of Music’s William and Gayle Cook Music Library and the Canadian Brass announces an agreement to build and maintain a comprehensive collection of all of the quintet’s recordings and published scores, eventually adding a number of its unpublished works.  Click here for full story.

Canadian Brass to appear on TV live in St. Louis

Canadian Brass will appear LIVE on Fox 2 at 11:45 a.m. and KPLR News 11 at 12:20 pm on Tuesday the 2nd of February in St. Louis, MO. Tune in to see what the quintet has to say!

Canadian Brass Live on WITF Radio

Canadian Brass is on their perennial Holiday Tour right up to the 24th of December.  Every year they make spirits bright across North America.  They stopped at the WITF radio station on their way to Shippensburg, PA yesterday.  Click here to enjoy the interview they gave.

Canadian Brass: National music icons play for 1800 students

Canadian Brass members Chris Coletti, foreground, and Jeff Nelsen, Brandon Ridenour, Gene Watts and Chuck Daellenbach, background from left, perform for hundreds of elementary school students at Central Secondary School on Friday. The acclaimed quintet was in Stratford for two school performances for more than 1,800 students and an evening show at the Avon Theatre. The school shows, along with a morning workshop for Central band members, were the result of a partnership between the Avon Maitland District School Board and Stratford Live Ltd. SCOTT WISHART The Beacon Herald

Posted in the Stratford Beacon Herald – November 26, 2009

The Stir of Echo

Roger Kaza, Principal Horn of the St. Louis Symphony raves!

“I think I’ve been waiting my whole life to hear Gabrieli played that way…with transparency, an unaffected line, perfect balance between the horizontal and vertical elements of the music.
The Venetian master has finally had his day in court !”

Online Magazine “Audiophile Audition” says-

“A magnificent program of spatial Renaissance brass music…”

Recent fan- "…can't think of a better present I could have given her."

Canadian Brass love hearing from our audience.  We received this letter today, after last night’s concert with the Toledo Symphony, to a sold out 2400 seat Stranahan Theatre.

“I took my mother to your concert in Toledo, Ohio on November 28 as an early birthday present. We were right on the aisle so we got a nice closeup view of your entrance.The music was wonderful, plus my mom laughed and smiled a lot. My mother will be 91 on December 9 and I can’t think of a better present I could have given her.

Thank you,
Louanne Hennessy”

Last night was a joy for all of us.  Today’s performing artists deeply appreciate whenever people generously share their time, smiles, and applause with us.  Thank YOU Louanne, and thank you Canadian Brass audiences everywhere!  We’re looking forward to your presence as we share our presents with you on our 2009 Holiday tour!

Musically yours,
Chuck, Gene, Jeff, Brandon, and Chris.

Rave reviews for latest CD "Echo – Glory of Gabrieli"

If you’re not completely hooked by the strikingly realistic antiphonal sound or the breathtakingly virtuosic playing in the first 30 seconds of this remarkable recording, then check your equipment–your ears and your sound system.

Likeminded Musicians Unite

El Sistema http://fesnojiv.gob.ve/ is attracting world press as the wildly successful and innovative new venture in music and music education.  Its founder José Antonio Abreu is receiving the prestigious Glenn Gould award in Toronto next week.  He has asked that Canadian Brass work and appear with the young players from the El Sistema programme that form the Venezuelan Brass Ensemble.

Canadian Brass kick off the Holiday Season with Billboard’s Top 10 Chart!

The Canadian Brass got an early Christmas present when their latest Holiday title Christmas Tradition scored a triumph with a Top 10 position on the Billboard Holiday Album Chart for the week ending October 17^th.  Landing at a solid #8, the Brass beat out artists Yo-Yo Ma, Il Divo, Josh Groban, Vince Guaraldi and Harry Connick Jr for Top 10 honors as this years Holiday season kicks off.

First concerts of the season great success for Canadian Brass

With an unexpected burst of music from the left entrance of Emerson Concert Hall, five men with horns made an uncanny arrival playing a tune reminiscent of New Orleans jazz. Strolling in with mock solemnity, the Canadian Brass quintet made its way onto the stage amidst audience members’ raised eyebrows and half-smiles on Thursday.

Musical Heritage Society Runs Canadian Christmas Promotion

Musical Heritage Society, the premiere source for discounted, rare and essential classical CDs, and the Canadian Brass have teamed up to offer a unique and exciting holiday promotion – A Canadian Christmas. The promotion, which kicked off in September and runs through December, is fully endorsed by the Canadian Brass and offers Society Members three Holiday albums featuring Canadian artists all from the Opening Day label.

The Summer Swings with Radio and Raves!

Swing That Music has just completed its record breaking summer run with 14 straight weeks of radio airplay coast-to-coast in the United States, as well as in Canada and Australia. With 140 stations on board, the album has been hailed as “stunning – covers every facet of the man’s legendary career” and “stuffed full of stylish Dixieland jazz”.

ArkivMusic to Release Latest CD Collaboration with Canadian Brass, Echo: Glory of Gabrieli

CD pre-release begins September 11th through a special promotion with ArkivMusic and Ticketmaster

Farewell note from Joe Burgstaller

Dear Friends, Fans and Colleagues:

After 7 ½ years as a full-time member of Canadian Brass, I am moving on in my career!  I leave with so many fond memories and wonderful experiences…

Fred Mills: A Tragic Loss of Our Colleague and Dear Friend

Tonight Gabriel is playing trumpet duets

Members, past and present, of Canadian Brass are sad to inform our friends that Fred Mills died tonight, September 7, 2009.  He was a longtime friend and colleague who has left an indelible mark on the music world.

Fred Mills: A Tragic Loss of Our Colleague and Dear Friend

Tonight Gabriel is playing trumpet duets

Members, past and present, of Canadian Brass are sad to inform our friends that Fred Mills died tonight, September 7, 2009.  He was a longtime friend and colleague who has left an indelible mark on the music world.

Fred lofted the piccolo trumpet into an indispensable role in the brass quintet, brought a new level of musical quality to the brass quintet repertoire through his arrangements, many of which are now considered absolute standard repertoire and spent over fifty years helping establish the trumpet as a beautiful, lyrical voice amongst solo orchestral instruments.

He inspired so many people as a founding member of the Canadian Brass from its formation. He had a unique ability to communicate through music and on a personal level.

Through the excellence of his performances and the quality of his arrangements he helped lift the brass quintet repertoire from a curiosity to a legitimate and accepted art form rivaling the string quartet.

His dedication and natural talent as a communicator to passing his love of music on to young people is part of his continuing legacy to the international world of music.

He was a Canadian treasure who changed the world’s musical perspective.

Canadian Brass and Opening Day Entertainment Announce New Distribution

Canadian Brass and Opening Day Entertainment Group are proud to announce their new distribution partnership with E1 Entertainment Distribution US, the market leader among independent labels and distributors in the United States, which will commence on Sept 1, 2009. Based in Port Washington, NY, E1 (formerly Koch Entertainment) distributes over 80 active labels covering every genre and music configuration – both physical and digital. 

Special Promotion "Free track giveaway"!

Musical Heritage Society Promotion a Smashing Success

“Musical Heritage Society recently concluded our 2 month long promotional campaign featuring the introduction and launch of Opening Day Entertainment Group to our members.  The reaction and sales were above all of our expectations – all in all it was a huge success and one we are all proud of.

Swing That Music Continues to Get National Airplay!

Radio has fully taken Swing That Music to its heart, as more and more stations across the United States and Canada continue to add tracks and feature the Canadian Brass from coast-to-coast. Radio pundit Max Horowitz told us that “programmers describe it as  ‘beautifully done’ and ‘a stand out CD’, Swing That Music is one of those true crossover projects receiving spins on both classical and jazz stations. The airplay started with July 4^th features, celebrating Louie’s birthday and has continued to grow with the Brass praised for their well rounded musicianship. Bravo! With stations now totaling 62 and counting, Swing That Music has been recently added to the San Francisco, Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Cleveland, Detroit, Baltimore, Albuquerque, Louisville markets as well as national syndication on the CBC in Canada.  Here are more reactions and comments from our radio friends and support on an album that is quickly becoming a Canadian Brass classic!

Radio Swinging to the Sounds of Canadian Brass

Swing That Music, the latest release from the Canadian Brass, is charging up the charts and playlists of radio stations far and wide across the United States and Canada. Within just two weeks, the critically acclaimed CD has been added on 23 stations in 19 states with more stations jumping on board everyday. The electrifying and infectious music continues to score big with listeners and programmers of every description and taste. Featuring tracks that celebrate the life and music of the legendary Louis Armstrong, the timing could not be more perfect for summer listening.  Keep your ears open and listen for the Canadian Brass on a radio station near you!

What if Canadian Brass Met Satchmo?

Canadian Brass is pleased to announce the release of their latest CD, Swing that Music – a Tribute to Louis Armstrong. The album’s US release date is April 28th. The CD will get its initial promotional push from Musical Heritage Society- the venerable music club and premier source for essential classical and jazz CDs. The recording is available at the Canadian Brass Store and MHS will prominently present the album on its website, with sound-clips, detailed information and special pricing as well as make the CD a “pick of the month” for May & June…

Canadian Brass is Canada's favorite classical group!

It’s official!  Last night at Canada’s 2009 Indie Awards Canadian Brass was named Canada’s Favorite Classical Group/Artist.

Exciting new Bramwell Tovey work for brass quintet and wind ensemble gets Juno nomination!

Bramwell Tovey’s Manhattan Music has received a nomination from the Junos (Canadian Grammies) for the Classical Composition of the Year.

Paulus Productions Inc. invites you to a screening of Time

A short film by Kwan Ho Tse, funded by Bravo! Fact, music performed by Canadian Brass, plus bonus short films from our vaults.

Sean Kelly Joins Toronto Festivities

Sean Kelly is will be joining Canadian Brass for their annual Holiday concert in Toronto on December 23, 2008 at Roy Thomson Hall. The Canadian Brass will be blowing up a storm

Fantastic new CB Holiday radio program now available!

Looking for a new way to say, “Ho Ho Ho” this season? Well, in Canada, we say, “Ho Ho Ho, Eh!?” Meet Canadian Brass, hear how they celebrate the holiday spirit 365 days a year and enjoy some fun and inspiring holiday music.

Canadian Brass Meets Contest Winner!

Canadian Brass recently sponsored a contest held by CD retailer, Musical Heritage Society. The winner was to receive a new Yamaha YTR-2335 Trumpet, a music stand and a Canadian Brass Playalong book. Out of over 1100 Canadian Brass fans that entered the contest, Mr. Roy Powell from Dallas,Texas was the winner.


A Brass Billboard Summer

“Record label’s success parallels that of its flagship act!” – As read in The Globe & Mail. The Canadian Brass continues its tradition of defying industry trends. In the past week, three of the Brass’ latest recordings through its label Opening Day have charted: Legends, Bach and Jazz Roots!

New European Distribution for the Brass

We are very excited to announce that we have just finalized an agreement to have our Canadian Brass / Opening Day recordings distributed in Germany by the prestigious Note 1 Musik, and throughout the rest of Europe by their sister company, MusiContact. They will be releasing the Bach, Legends and Wedding Essentials CDs first, followed by Sweet Songs of Christmas and Christmas Tradition. This should greatly improve the availability of the Brass’ latest recordings throughout Europe. As before, the Canadian Brass Online Store will continue to ship internationally.

Canadian Brass in the UK – Radio Special

In case you couldn’t make it to the UK concerts, and if you missed the radio broadcast that occurred over this past weekend, you still have one more opportunity to catch a bit of the Brass! Click here for information on the “Bandstand” broadcast.

Legends Tour Adds Five Players to the Stage

Following on the release of their new LEGENDS CD, Canadian Brass is about to perform three very special concerts in the USA. Since the music on the CD concentrates on expanded forces, so do the concerts — ten players will be featured!

Canadian Brass Legends Ensemble: Joe Burgstaller, Ryan Anthony, Brandon Ridenour and Joey Tartell on trumpet, Jeff Nelsen and Gavin Reed on horn, Gene Watts, Pete Ellefson and Zak Bond on trombone and Chuck on tuba.

July 1 Release Jazz Roots Preorders Now Open!

Never thought you would hear Canadian Brass joined by jazz piano? How about electric bass?

Unknown to many, it’s already been done! In the early 1970s, the Brass challenged the perception of musical boundaries through two recordings which were among the first to create the brand-new “crossover” genre. These classic LPs, Rag-Ma-Tazz and Unexplored Territory, are presented in Jazz Roots for the first time in one CD package, as a homage to the story of jazz.

First came Rag-Ma-Tazz—a ragtime era and ragtime influenced music recording. The first eight ragtime pieces are classic Scott Joplin, the king of ragtime composers. Composers all over the world were well aware of the American ragtime craze, resulting in a plethora of jazz influenced compositions, from Claude Debussy to two Canadian composers who added their musical view of the era in their original composition for the Brass: film composer Larry Crosley and dean of Canadian composers Eldon Rathburn.

In 1977, Unexplored Territory became the first runaway best seller for Canadian Brass. Stereo Review featured this recording as its pick of the month, suggesting, “The Canadian Brass enters its golden age.” Never before had there been such a successful collaboration between a classical artist with a jazz ensemble. This recording was a result of the unique professional collaboration of the Brass with pianist-composer Don Gillis, a writer who went on to become the music director for Muppets’ creator Jim Henson. Gillis brought his own jazz quartet to the recording project, along with names that have become a who’s-who of Canadian artists, including the “First Lady of the Guitar” Liona Boyd. Significantly, Unexplored Territory also features the first appearance of the Brass’ signature tune “Just a Closer Walk”!

The Brass is pleased to make this classic material available, and hope you’ll share your impressions through fanmail@canbrass.com. You can place an advance order for this two-disc CD here!

Frackenpohls Endow Scholarship

Canadian Brass is proud to tell you about their chief classical arranger over the past 30 years. Art & Mary Ellen Frackenpohl have set up a program for young brass quintets very much in keeping with our own philosophy: learn through performance.

Dr. Arthur and Mary Ellen Frackenpohl have endowed a fund to establish The Frackenpohl Honors Brass Quintet that will provide financial and experiential support to five undergraduate brass majors. Potsdam College will administer the endowment annually. Part of the endowment will go toward scholarships for the student members of The Frackenpohl Honors Brass Quintet, while experiential support includes enabling the Quintet to travel and perform while also providing opportunities for guest artists, teachers and performers to interact with the Quintet through clinics and master classes.

Dr. Frackenpohl has published more than 400 instrumental and choral compositions and arrangements including three large choral works, a chamber opera, two string quartets, five brass quintets, a piano sonata and numerous works arranged for the Canadian Brass, the most recent being J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations. His works have been performed throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and Japan. Dr. Frackenpohl earned degrees from the University of Rochester, the Eastman School of Music and McGill University.

Mrs. Frackenpohl graduated from Crane in 1954 with a degree in Music Education. She taught flute privately and played extensively for more than 20 years, also serving as an adjunct faculty member at The Crane School of Music and St. Lawrence University. In celebration of her 50th reunion from Potsdam, the Frackenpohls established the Mary Ellen Walkley Frackenpohl ’54 Student Ensemble Travel Endowment to provide travel money for ensembles from The Crane School of Music.

Those wishing to support the Frackenpohl Honors Brass Quintet may do so by contacting the Potsdam College Foundation at (315) 267-2118.

LEGENDS Available Now, and Coming Soon to Stage!

The compositions featured on Legends are absolutely essential to appreciating the Canadian Brass legacy. The group virtually invented the “double brass quintet” in the early ’80s with their guests, the Berlin Philharmonic Brass. They went on to record and perform with the Boston Symphony, the New York Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra brass sections. Combining music which represents several centuries of the highest musical art tradition along with the performers who have made a significant contribution to the Brass’ cultural heritage has produced Legends.

The new CD can be all yours here!

The Brass has for many years invited guests to perform alongside them for recordings and concerts, starting with the New York Philharmonic Brass (1983 in Ottawa onstage at the National Arts Centre even before Joe Alessi and Warren Deck had joined the Philharmonic!). Then came a 1984 Sony recording made in Germany with the Berlin Philharmonic Brass, followed by a decade of concerts and recordings on Sony and BMG and Decca labels with both the New York Philharmonic brass and the Boston Symphony Orchestra brass. Suddenly we looked up and realized that it was time to make a recording expanded to ten with our own “alumni” – joining Gene, Joe, Brandon, Jeff and Chuck are former members and colleagues establishing the dectet Canadian Brass Ensemble as heard in Legends. To celebrate the release of this recording we are performing several concerts this July including the prestigious Ravinia (Chicago) and Interlochen venues. Hope to see a lot of our friends and fans then. View the July concert dates here.

Fan Response to BACH

Brass fans have had a few weeks now to really give a good listen to Canadian Brass’ newest release, Bach. What do they think? Here’s what Chuck had to report:

It’s fun to be hearing so much positive response to a CD, especially in these days of reading about the ‘demise’ of the CD. We felt each piece was incredibly special on the Bach CD, and apparently our friends & fans are feeling similarly. Ron Romm’s arrangement of the “Little Fugue in G minor” is an absolute “must play” amongst brass players all over the world now, 35 years after he made this arrangement for our first LP made in Canada. It was that LP that caught the attention of New York manager Kazuko Hillier (then wife of Juilliard String Quartet’s Raphael Hillier). Kazuko said that he approved the artistry of the group and that she “fell in love with the guys.” Tony Rickard is a name that has become well known to audiences attending our annual concert in Avery Fischer Hall every December. Tony is responsible for many of the heroic large brass works we feature along with the principal brass guys out of the New York Philharmonic. In the Bach Overtures we felt he had achieved the grandeur of an entire orchestra in this arrangement for ten brass and tympani. You will be seeing the name Michael Allen, arranger of “Aire pour les trompettes”, a lot more this spring when we release Legends featuring some great solo performances by Ryan Anthony, Joe Burgstaller, Jeff Nelsen and Bernhard Scully. These recordings are putting us back on the Billboard charts – 4th decade in a row – and are confirming the ‘coming of age’ for brass the world over.

What do you think of Bach? Let us know by emailing friends@canbrass.com!