Bridge: a link, a tie, a bond, an alliance, a connection; to band together, to unify. The Brass Band Bridge has been the official publication of the North American Brass Band Association since 1980: Championships reports, band news, repertoire, and the people who make the movement go.
Latest issue
Issue 129 — NABBA Previews 2024 Championships in Huntsville
March 2024 · 12 pages · 22.1 MB
Issue 129 previewed the 40th North American Brass Band Championships, set for April 2024 in Huntsville, Alabama, including full timetable, adjudicators, competing bands, and test piece breakdowns. It also covered regional festivals in Dublin, St. Louis, and Rowan University, reviewed Fountain City Brass Band's UK tour, and paid tribute to the late John W. DeSalme.
Issue 128 covered the November 2023 US Masters Brass Band Championships in Kansas City, where Frontier Brass Band successfully defended its title, plus details on the US Open returning to Michigan. It also announced 2024 Championships plans in Huntsville, the 2025 return to Fort Wayne, new contest rules, and Athena Brass Band's Women in Brass initiatives.
In this issue (7)
Frontier Brass Band retains US Masters title — Frontier Brass Band, led by new Music Director Dr. Douglas Lindsey, won the US Masters Brass Band Entertainment Championships in Kansas City with a show titled 'Holding the Light,' also taking best conductor and best trombone section honors.
NABBA 2024 Championships return to Huntsville — The North American Brass Band Championships will be held April 4-5, 2024 at the renovated Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama, with new rules on player sharing, rising entry fees, and required volunteer support from bands.
NABBA 2025 Championships to return to Fort Wayne — After previously hosting from 2015-2019, Fort Wayne, Indiana will again host the NABBA Championships in April 2025, using the Embassy Theatre, Grand Wayne Center, and USF Goldstine Performing Arts Center with improved logistics.
US Open Brass Band Championships returns to Michigan — The Great Lakes Brass Band Association hosted the second annual US Open Brass Band Championships on November 18, 2023 in Clarkston, Michigan, featuring eight bands, a buskers' competition, and a masterclass by Norwegian conductor Philip Hannevik.
Athena Brass Band promotes Women in Brass — Members of the Athena Brass Band performed in multiple 'Women in Brass' concerts with the Rockville Brass Band and Triangle Brass Band, and the group announced it will be the premier ensemble at the 2024 Ohio Music Education Association Conference.
NABBA seeking new test piece submissions — NABBA's Music Sub-committee, led by Christopher Ward, opened a submission portal for future Set Test pieces, emphasizing interest in works by North American and underrepresented composers; a new commission by Lucy Pankhurst was already announced for the 2025 First Section.
NABBA grants support regional brass band festivals — NABBA continued its grant program supporting regional adjudicated and educational brass band festivals across North America, with new smaller grants planned for festivals featuring NABBA bands.
Issue 127 covered the 2023 North American Brass Band Championships in Huntsville, Alabama, where Five Lakes Silver Band claimed a surprise Championship Section title, alongside new NABBA president Dr. Patrick Herak's inaugural message. The issue also featured a tribute to composer John Williams's brass works and reviews of several regional brass festivals across North America.
In this issue (8)
Five Lakes Silver Band wins 2023 NABBA Championship — Five Lakes Silver Band, promoted from the First Section, won the Championship Section at the 2023 NABBA Championships in Huntsville, Alabama, on the strength of its set test performance of Herman Pallhuber's Titan's Progress, ending Fountain City Brass Band's five-year winning streak.
Full NABBA 2023 results across all sections — Princeton Brass Band won the First Section, San Francisco Brass Band took the Second Section title in its first major win, and Jacksonville State University Brass Band claimed the Third Section, with youth sections also competing.
Dr. Patrick Herak becomes NABBA President — Dr. Patrick Herak took over as NABBA President, outlining plans for a Youth Outreach subcommittee, expanded festival support, adjudicator training, and new Standard Operating Procedures for transparency.
Celebrating John Williams at 91 — Thomas A. Myers explored composer John Williams's rare brass and percussion works, including Fanfare for Fenway (transcribed for brass band by Stephen Bulla) and Music for Brass, noting how few original works exist for British brass band from major composers.
Five Lakes retains Dublin Festival of Brass title — Five Lakes Silver Band swept the full band prizes at the 5th Annual Dublin Festival of Brass for the second straight year, with Cincinnati Brass Band winning the B-Section and Oakland University's youth band making its contest debut.
Ohio Brass Arts Festival marks 16th year — The 16th annual Ohio Brass Arts Festival was held in Gahanna, Ohio, featuring performances from Dublin Concert Band, Dublin Silver Band (which won its fifth consecutive OBAF Cup), Brass Band of the Western Reserve, Dublin Metro Brass, and hosts Central Ohio Brass Band.
This issue previewed the 2023 North American Brass Band Championships in Huntsville, Alabama, including ticketing, the timetable, competing bands, and set test pieces. It also reported on leadership changes at the Dallas Brass Band, the inaugural Texas Brass Fest, the Five Lakes Silver Band's US Open win, and a review of the Gateway Brass Band Championships in St. Louis.
In this issue (8)
NABBA 2023 Championships Preview — The 2023 NABBA Championships were set for April 21-22 at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama, featuring 37 bands and 150 soloists, a new mobile app, free livestreaming, and professional development credit through VanderCook College of Music.
Leadership Changes at Dallas Brass Band — Grant Jameson was announced as the new Principal Conductor of the Dallas Brass Band, succeeding David Childs, while Nathaniel Geiger became the new Band President, replacing Andrew Wainwright who stepped back after six years.
Five Lakes Silver Band Wins US Open Championship — The Five Lakes Silver Band, based near Detroit, won the Championship Division at the inaugural US Open Brass Band Championships hosted by the Great Lakes Brass Band Association, and prepared to compete in the Championship Section at NABBA 2023.
Gateway Brass Band Championships Review — The St. Louis Brass Band hosted the Gateway Brass Band Championships at Ritenour High School, featuring nine bands and one brass ensemble, with Fountain City Brass Band winning the Championship Section.
Inaugural Texas Brass Fest Announced — A new annual event, the Texas Brass Fest, was announced for May 27, 2023 at the Round Top Festival Institute, bringing together the brass bands of Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio for individual and massed concerts.
A Percussionist's First NABBA Championships — Daniel Melendez of the Tampa Brass Band reflected on the logistical challenges of competing as a percussionist at his first NABBA Championships in 2022 and offered advice for future participants.
Issue 125 covered Mark Taylor's appointment as the new Music Director of Chicago Brass Band, part two of Matt Billock's data-driven practice analysis, NABBA's approval of an updated 2023 rulebook, and a review of the International Brass Band Summer School in Swansea, Wales. The issue also announced 2023 NABBC adjudicators and listed regional brass band festivals across North America.
In this issue (6)
Mark Taylor Takes Baton at Chicago Brass Band — Mark Taylor was named the new full-time Music Director of Chicago Brass Band after serving in an interim role, succeeding founding director Colin Holman; he discussed his 20-season history with the band and plans for the upcoming contest season.
NABBA Board Approves Updated 2023 Rulebook — The NABBA Board of Directors approved an updated rulebook for the 2023 North American Brass Band Championships, including changes to player-sharing rules, own-choice program timing, late score penalties, and new contest flow and performance-slot limits for solos and ensembles.
2023 NABBC Adjudicators Announced — NABBA announced the panel of adjudicators for the 2023 North American Brass Band Championships, including John Phillips, Dr. Howard Evans, Allan Ramsay, and others.
Sun, Sea and Brass: IBBSS 2022 Review — The International Brass Band Summer School was held for the first time at the University of Wales, Swansea's Bay Campus, directed by Black Dyke Band conductor Professor Nicholas Childs, featuring tutors like Richard Marshall and Brett Baker, and a tribute to delegates who died during the pandemic.
Matt Billock's Practice Data Analysis, Part 2 — Matt Billock concluded his two-part series on using spreadsheets and data visualization to analyze and improve contest music practice routines ahead of the Gateway contest in St. Louis.
NABBA Partners with Regional Brass Festivals — NABBA's President announced plans to partner with regional events including the US Open, Dublin Festival of Brass, Gateway Brass Band Festival, Mid Atlantic Brass Band Festival, and the new Great Canadian Brass Band Festival.
Issue 124 covered the 2022 NABBA Championships in Huntsville, Alabama, the first held after a two-year hiatus, with Fountain City Brass Band winning the Championship Section. The issue also included full results across all sections, a retrospective of the contest, and the first part of a feature on innovative practice-tracking methods for contest preparation.
In this issue (8)
Fountain City Wins Championship Section Again — Fountain City Brass Band, directed by Prof. David King, won the Championship Section at the 2022 NABBA Championships in Huntsville, with JMU and Atlantic close behind.
NABBA Championships Return After Two-Year Hiatus — After missing two years of Championships, NABBA returned with a full contest weekend in Huntsville, drawing new and returning bands across all sections.
Dallas Brass Band Wins First Section Debut — Dallas Brass Band, led by Prof. David Childs, won the First Section in its first ever appearance at the NABBA Championships.
Motor City Brass Band Takes Second Section — Motor City Brass Band, conducted by Gordon Ward, won the Second Section with a strong performance of the test piece Hope and choice work Lions of Legends, ahead of Cincinnati Brass Band and host band Brass Band of Huntsville.
Triangle Brass Band Wins Third Section — Triangle Brass Band, conducted by Tony Granados, won the Third Section for the second time in three Championships, with a strong performance of The Raid.
San Francisco Brass Band Debuts as First Californian Band — San Francisco Brass Band, led by Dr. Craig McKenzie, became the first brass band from California to compete at the NABBA Championships.
Feature: Tech-Driven Practice Analysis for Contest Prep — Matt Billock of Chicago Brass Band described building a database and visualization system using PostgreSQL, Python, and Tableau to track and analyze his practice sessions for NABBA contest pieces And From The Darkness and Where Angels Fly.
Issue 119 marked the revival of The Brass Band Bridge in a newsletter format, featuring recurring segments like 'Why I Play in Band' and 'Person Profile.' The issue included practical articles on programming concert repertoire and purchasing instruments, plus a profile on euphoniumist and educator Keith Johnston, tracing the founding of Pittsburgh's early brass bands.
In this issue (5)
Bridge newsletter format returns — Editor Dr. Joel Collier announced the Brass Band Bridge would return to a newsletter format, published twice yearly (spring and fall), focusing on timeless articles rather than dated concert listings.
Person Profile: Keith Johnston and the founding of Pittsburgh's brass bands — Steve Musitano profiled Sacred Heart University band director Keith Johnston, detailing his musical upbringing, his father's role in founding the North Hills Brass Band (later Allegheny Brass Band), and the 1981 founding of the River City Brass Band by Robert Bernat during Pittsburgh's renaissance celebration.
Selecting Concert Repertoire — Andrew Wainwright wrote about the challenges of programming brass band concerts today, advocating for balanced programs featuring original works over transcriptions, and offered a template for structuring a concert.
Why I Play in Band — Dr. Amy Schumaker Bliss shared a personal reflection on the sense of community and family found in brass banding, describing band members supporting each other through weddings, baptisms, and memorial services.
Finding the Right Instrument — Aaron Campbell offered guidance on purchasing brass instruments, covering pricing, financing, buying new versus used, and matching instrument tier to a musician's needs.
This October 2009 issue of The Brass Band Bridge covered the 20th Great American Brass Band Festival, cornet soloist Richard Marshall's visit to Georgia brass bands, and Fountain City Brass Band's upcoming tour to compete at the Brass in Concert Competition and Scottish Open in England and Scotland. It also reported on NABBA organizational changes, including a move of the championship site to Grand Rapids in 2011, plus band news, youth band highlights, and overseas notes from the UK and Australia.
In this issue (8)
Fountain City Brass Band Invited to Brass in Concert and Scottish Open — As reigning NABBA champions, Fountain City Brass Band was invited to compete at the Brass in Concert Competition in Gateshead, England, sharing the stage with Black Dyke and Cory bands, and later at the Scottish Open Championships, while recording a new CD 'Over the Rainbow'.
20th Great American Brass Band Festival Draws Record Crowds — The Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky celebrated its 20th anniversary with record attendance and the best weather in its history, featuring Chicago Brass Band, Flint Citadel, Canadian Brass, and U.S. Army Herald Trumpets.
Black Dyke's Richard Marshall Tours Georgia Brass Bands — Black Dyke Band principal cornet Richard Marshall visited Georgia after adjudicating the NABBA Championships in Louisville, giving master classes at Georgia State University and University of Georgia and performing with Georgia Brass Band and Atlanta Temple Band.
NABBA Board Announces Championship Site Changes and New Initiatives — The NABBA Board of Directors, meeting in Chicago, welcomed new directors Randi Bulla, Betsy Jones, and Charles Hall, announced changes to the 2010 Raleigh Championships, and confirmed the 2011 Championships would move to Grand Rapids, Michigan.
— Under director Tony Granados, the Triangle Youth Brass Band performed for the full NABBA membership at the 2009 Championships and received an overwhelming standing ovation, inspiring calls for more youth brass bands across North America.
Issue 78 (December 1999) of The Brass Band Bridge covered NABBA's first western regional brass band festival in Las Vegas, Russell Gray's acclaimed North American concert tour, and previews of the NABBA 2000 championships in Columbus, Ohio. It also included band news, concert programs, and the second installment of Joel Pugh's dissertation on Salvation Army euphonium solo repertoire.
In this issue (8)
NABBA's First Western Festival in Las Vegas — NABBA sponsored its first major western regional brass band festival in Las Vegas, featuring the Prairie Brass Band Octet, Westwinds Brass Band, Salt River Brass Band, Golden State British Brass, and host Las Vegas Brass Band, with clinics and a massed band concert led by Alan Boyer; plans emerged for a full western competition in 2001.
Russell Gray's North American Tour — Scottish cornet virtuoso Russell Gray toured North America, performing and teaching with the Illinois Brass Band in Chicago, the Brass Band of Columbus, and at the Las Vegas Festival, earning widespread acclaim for his musicianship and teaching techniques.
NABBA 2000 Championships Announced — Details were released for the NABBA 2000 championships to be hosted by the All-Star Brass & Percussion in Columbus, Ohio, featuring a gala concert by Canadian Brass and contests at the Capitol Theatre.
St. Louis Brass Band Wins NABBA Challenge Section — The St. Louis Brass Band celebrated its first anniversary by winning the Challenge Section of NABBA in April and later presented a gala concert with guest conductor Keith Wilkinson.
Cincinnati Brass Band Performs with Cincinnati Pops — The Cincinnati Brass Band, led by Anita Cocker Hunt, performed multiple concerts with the Cincinnati Pops under Erik Kunzel, including season-opening concerts at Music Hall and a festival appearance in Ashland, Kentucky.
Kennedy's Swinton Concert Brass under Garry Cutt won the 137th British Open Championship, ahead of Hammonds Sauce Works and Leyland DAF, among other top British bands.
Issue 37 (Aug. 1989) of The Brass Band Bridge reported on the expanding NABBA archives at North Carolina State University and announced Championships VIII in Pittsburgh for April 1990, along with a second annual video competition. The issue also featured cassette reviews, news of new NABBA Board members, a call for test piece suggestions, and updates from member bands including the Hannaford Street Silver Band, Central Florida Brass Band, and Wenatchee British Brass Band.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Archives Continue to Grow — The North American Brass Band Association's archives, housed at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, continued to expand with memorabilia, recordings, programs, and competition records dating back to Championships I in 1983.
Championships VIII Announced for Pittsburgh — NABBA announced that Championships VIII would be held in April 1990 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, hosted by the Allegheny Brass Band with contact Alfred Duerig.
Want to write for the Bridge? Contact the editor through NABBA.
Gettysburg Brass Band Festival history and tradition — Chris Larsen recounted the history of the Gettysburg Brass Band Festival, founded in 1998 by Ben Jones and rooted in Civil War musical traditions, describing its growth into one of the nation's strongest brass festivals with diverse participating bands.
New 'Wurst Friday' march competition launches in Iowa — Iowa Brass announced the first annual 'Wurst Friday' march competition and Wurst Brass Festival in Amana, Iowa, modeled on the UK's Whit Friday tradition and paired with the local German heritage Wurst Festival.
NABBA Professional Development Partnership — NABBA partnered with VanderCook College of Music to offer graduate credit and CEUs for participants engaging in professional development activities at the 2023 Championships.
2023 Set Test Pieces Previewed — The Bridge previewed the test pieces for each section of the 2023 NABBA Championships, including Hermann Pallhuber's 'Titan's Progress' for the Championship Section and Philip Sparke's 'The Year of the Dragon' for the First Section.
New Board Elections and Future Championship Plans — President Tony Granados announced ongoing board elections and hinted at upcoming changes and regional partnerships for future NABBA Championships, confirming Huntsville as host for the next two years.
Issue 118 covered the 2010 NABBA XXVIII Championships held in Raleigh, North Carolina, where Fountain City Brass Band claimed an unprecedented fourth consecutive Championship Section win. The issue also detailed new bands debuting at the contest, a tight race for the trip to England's Butlin's Mineworkers Contest, band news from across North America and overseas, and NABBA leadership updates including plans for future championships in Grand Rapids and Cincinnati.
In this issue (8)
Fountain City Brass Band Claims Fourth Consecutive NABBA Title — Fountain City Brass Band, directed by Joe Parisi, won the Championship Section for an unprecedented fourth year in a row at the 2010 NABBA Championships in Raleigh, following a strong showing that also included a win at the Scottish Open.
Tight Race for Butlin's Mineworkers Trip — Central Ohio, Georgia, and Massanutten Brass Bands were separated by just 1.2 points in a close competition for a trip to the Butlin's Mineworkers Contest in England.
New Bands Debut at NABBA Championships — Brass of the Potomac, led by Stephen Bulla and made up largely of Washington D.C.-area military band professionals, and the newly formed Oakland University Brass Band both made strong debuts at the 2010 Championships.
Natural State Brass Band Tours England — Skipping NABBA competition for the first time in its seven-year history, Arkansas's Natural State Brass Band embarked on a 10-day tour of England, including opening the English Nationals in Preston, a rehearsal at the Black Dyke Bandroom, and a joint concert with the Wingates Band, with Doug Yeo as guest soloist.
Susan Henthorn Steps Down as NABBA Secretary — NABBA President Russell Morris congratulated Secretary Susan Henthorn on her upcoming marriage as she stepped aside from the Board after years of service, while remaining active in the organization.
Future Championships Set for Grand Rapids and Cincinnati — NABBA announced its 2011 Championships would be held in Grand Rapids, Michigan (April 8-9, Amway Grand Plaza host hotel), with Cincinnati selected as host city for both 2012 and 2013.
Central Ohio Brass Band Hosts Black Dyke's Brett Baker — The three-time NABBA 1st Section Champions performed a special concert with Black Dyke Band solo trombonist Brett Baker in Columbus, Ohio, featuring works arranged by Dr. Keith Wilkinson.
Cornwall Youth Brass Band Honors Composer Goff Richards — The Cornwall Youth Brass Band's Easter course celebrated founding supporter and composer Dr. Goff Richards with premieres dedicated to him and presented him with the W A Hunt Cup at a Gala Concert in Newquay.
This issue previewed the 2010 NABBA XXVIII Championships to be held in Raleigh, North Carolina, listing test pieces, adjudicators, schedule, and the 19 competing bands. It also covered President Russell Morris's trip to the Butlin's Mineworkers Contest in England, band news including a conductor resignation at Brass Band of Central Florida, and reports from the NABBA Summer Camp and overseas youth brass activities.
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NABBA XXVIII Championships Preview — NABBA announced test pieces, adjudicators, schedule, and the 19 registered bands for the 2010 Championships to be held at the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts and Meymandi Concert Hall in Raleigh, North Carolina.
President Attends Butlin's Mineworkers Contest — NABBA President Russell Morris traveled to Skegness, England to attend the Butlin's Mineworkers Contest, which drew over 6,000 attendees and 87 bands, and reported on the event's organization and prize money.
Boobs and Brass Raises Funds for Breast Cancer — The ladies' band 'Boobs and Brass,' founded by Maggie Betts and Jane Nichols, raised close to $11,000 at the Butlin's weekend and presented an additional $22,000 to the UK breast cancer foundation, with President Morris joining their rehearsal and performance.
Michael Garasi Resigns from Brass Band of Central Florida — After nine years leading the Brass Band of Central Florida, conductor Michael J. Garasi announced his resignation due to increased demands from his university position, with plans to guest conduct occasionally.
St. Helens Youth Brass Band to Perform at Ohio Brass Arts Festival — The acclaimed St. Helens Youth Brass Band from England, led by Mark Bousie, was set to appear at the 4th Annual Ohio Brass Arts Festival alongside top American bands including Brass Band of Columbus.
NABBA Summer Camp at International Peace Gardens Recap — The Fourth Annual NABBA Official Summer Camp, conducted by Anita Cocker-Hunt, brought 35 brass band members together for rehearsals, a worship service performance, and a final concert at the International Music Camp.
Cornwall Youth Brass Band Christmas Course — Despite severe winter weather disrupting travel, the Cornwall Youth Brass Band held its annual Christmas residential course with guest conductor Garry Cutt and trombonist Lisa Sarasini, culminating in a public concert.
Wales Week Concert Features Karl Jenkins and David Childs — DCINY presented a Carnegie Hall concert of Welsh music including the US premiere of Karl Jenkins's Euphonium Concerto performed by soloist David Childs, as part of Wales Week USA celebrations.
Triangle Youth Brass Band Earns Standing Ovation at NABBA '09
Cornwall Youth Brass Band's Brian Minear Honored as Cornish Bard — Brian Minear, music coordinator of the Cornwall Youth Brass Band and a 50-year veteran of Cornish brass banding, was elected a Bard of The Cornish Gorsedd in recognition of his contributions to music education.
Motor City Brass Band Names 2009 Youth Scholarship Winner — Euphonium player Kaitie Schoenfeldt of Saline, Michigan won the Motor City Brass Band's 2009 Youth Scholarship, performing Bellstedt's 'Napoli' with the band, with runners-up Justin Makarewicz and Joe L'Esperance also honored.
NABBA President Russell Morris Reflects on Personal Loss — In his column, NABBA President Russell Morris shared the death of his mother in June 2009 after a battle with non-Hodgkin's leukemia, thanking his band family for their support during a difficult summer.
Issue 114 covered NABBA's XXVII Championships held April 3-4, 2009 at the Brown Theatre in Louisville, Kentucky, with detailed reviews of the Championship, Honors, and Challenge Section bands. The issue also introduced new Bridge editor Betsy Jones, who succeeded outgoing editor Doug Yeo.
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New Bridge Editor Betsy Jones Introduced — Betsy Jones took over as the eighth editor of the Brass Band Bridge from Doug Yeo, sharing her personal journey into brass banding with the Georgia Brass Band.
Championship Section Test Piece: Devil and the Deep Blue Sea — Five Championship Section bands performed Derek Bourgeois's demanding 'The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea' on Friday night, with Fountain City Brass Band and Chicago Brass Band drawing particular praise for fanfares and solo work.
Own-Choice Night Crowns Fountain City — Saturday's own-choice performances featured Chicago's 'Eden', Fountain City's fiery 'Dreams' by Bertrand Moren, JMU's 'Vienna Nights', Illinois's 'Wand of Youth', and Atlantic's 'New Jerusalem', with Fountain City again dominating.
Central Ohio Brass Band Wins Honors Section — In a tight Honors Section contest, Central Ohio Brass Band edged out Georgia Brass Band by three points to win the Honors Banner, with Massanutten, Motor City, New England and Princeton also competing.
Challenge Section Sees Rising Contenders — The Challenge Section performed Kenneth Downie's 'Purcell Variations', with Bend in the River Brass Band moving up from the Explorer Section and Natural State Brass Band continuing its strong showing.
Buffet-Crampon Sponsors Championships Third Year Running — Buffet-Crampon USA, represented by Vice-President Bruce Silva, served as the main event sponsor for the third consecutive year, distributing Besson and Courtois instruments and giving away a York cornet in the prize drawing.
Planning Begins for Raleigh 2010 Championships — NABBA President Russell Morris announced that planning for the 2010 Championships XXVIII in Raleigh began the morning after the Louisville event concluded.
Triangle Youth Brass Band Praised in Youth Section — The Triangle Youth Brass Band delivered a standout Saturday evening finale performance that impressed reviewers despite not being the official subject of review.
Issue 113 marked Douglas Yeo's farewell column as Editor of The Brass Band Bridge, with Betsy Jones announced as his successor starting with issue 114. The issue also covered NABBA's strong presence at the Butlins Mineworkers' Contest in England, Buffet-Crampon's continued sponsorship of the NABBA XXVII Championships, and news and concert programs from member bands ahead of the April 2009 Championships in Louisville, Kentucky.
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Douglas Yeo Retires as Editor of The Brass Band Bridge — Douglas Yeo wrote his final column as the seventh Editor of The Bridge, reflecting on 15 issues and announcing that Betsy Jones of the Georgia Brass Band would become the eighth Editor starting with issue 114.
NABBA Delegation Attends Butlins Mineworkers' Contest — NABBA President Rusty Morris and Vice President Douglas Yeo attended the Butlins Mineworkers' Contest in Skegness, England, building ties with British brass banding figures and organizations, including a NABBA display arranged with help from Jon Handley of TOR Banners.
Douglas Yeo Leads 'Bone Blow 2009' Trombone Choir — Douglas Yeo assembled 50 trombonists for 'Bone Blow 2009' at Butlins, raising over £500 for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.
Buffet-Crampon Renews Sponsorship of NABBA Championships — Buffet-Crampon USA, distributor of Besson and Courtois instruments, was announced as the major sponsor of the NABBA XXVII Championships in Louisville for a third consecutive year, providing $5000 in support.
Brass Band of Columbus Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Guest Soloist — As part of its 25th Anniversary season, the Brass Band of Columbus hosted New York Staff Band euphonium soloist Aaron VanderWeele for rehearsals, clinics, and concerts, including the release of his solo CD 'Panache' benefiting Salvation Army youth music programs.
Lexington Brass Band Presents 'March Madness Redux' — Conducted by Ronald W. Holz, the Lexington Brass Band performed a concert exploring the history of the march, including the premiere of Michael West's transcription of Goldman's 'Chimes of Liberty.'
Gettysburg Festival Announces 2009 Headliners Including River City Brass — The Gettysburg Festival announced its 2009 lineup featuring River City Brass, jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal, and the Philadelphia Dance Company, with River City Brass performing a free concert on Opening Day.
CD Reviews Highlight VanderWeele, King's Singers, and Regional Bands — Ronald W. Holz reviewed several new brass-related recordings, including Aaron VanderWeele's 'Panache,' The King's Singers' Salvation Army choral collection, and Christmas albums from the Lake Wobegon Brass Band and Brass Band of the Western Reserve.
This December 2008 issue covered NABBA's preparations for the 2009 NABBA XXVII Championships in Louisville, Kentucky, and announced editor Douglas Yeo's upcoming retirement from the NABBA Board. It also featured band news, concert programs, a new grant-writing advice column, and CD reviews.
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Douglas Yeo to Retire as NABBA Vice President and Bridge Editor — Editor Douglas Yeo announced he would step down as NABBA Vice President and Editor of The Brass Band Bridge when his term ends June 30, 2009, after bringing the publication to an all-color digital PDF format.
NABBA XXVII Championships Set for Louisville — NABBA announced its 2009 XXVII Championships would be held April 3-4 in Louisville, Kentucky, with an entry deadline of January 16, 2009.
NABBA Leaders to Attend Butlins Mineworkers Open in England — NABBA President Rusty Morris and Editor Douglas Yeo planned to attend the Butlins Mineworkers Open Contest in Skegness, England, to build international ties, with support from Jon Handley of Tor Banners.
First Annual Deep South Brass Band Festival Announced — A new festival headlined by the Georgia Brass Band, the 2008 NABBA Honors Section National Champion, was announced for May 2, 2009 in Pine Mountain, Georgia, featuring multiple bands and outdoor concerts.
President Rusty Morris Shares Personal Health Transformation — In his column, NABBA President Rusty Morris described losing significant weight and improving his health after a 2007 physical revealed high blood pressure and blood sugar concerns.
Motor City Brass Band Receives Major Foundation Support — Motor City Brass Band received significant funding from the Kresge Foundation and the DeRoy Testamentary Foundation to support its adult band operations and youth brass band program.
New NABBA Column Launched on Grant Readiness — New board member Theresa MacDonald began a recurring 'Nuts & Bolts' column addressing band organizational issues, starting with a feature on becoming grant-ready, using Motor City Brass Band as a case study.
NABBA Bands Present Fall and Holiday Concerts — Multiple NABBA member bands, including the Lexington Brass Band, Georgia Brass Band, Weston Silver Band, Hannaford Street Silver Band, Spires Brass Band, and New England Brass Band, presented varied fall and holiday concert programs.
Issue 111 of The Brass Band Bridge (October 2008) reported the NABBA Board's decision to hold the 2010 Championships in Raleigh, North Carolina, and confirmed details for the 2009 Championships in Louisville, Kentucky, including test pieces and the new Recording of the Year contest. The issue also featured news and anniversaries from member bands such as the Georgia Brass Band, Hannaford Street Silver Band, and Motor City Brass Band, plus coverage of the US Open Brass Band Championships.
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NABBA Board Selects Raleigh for 2010 Championships — The NABBA Board of Directors voted to hold the 2010 NABBA XXVIII Championships in Raleigh, North Carolina, at the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, citing excellent venues and hotel convenience.
2009 Championships Set for Louisville, Kentucky — The 2009 NABBA XXVII Championships were confirmed for April 3-4 in Louisville, with test pieces selected by a committee chaired by Doug Yeo, and bands urged to register early.
NABBA Launches Recording of the Year Contest — NABBA announced rules for its new annual Recording of the Year contest, noting that the 2007 award went to the New England Brass Band for 'Be Glad Then America.'
Georgia Brass Band Celebrates 10th Anniversary — The Georgia Brass Band marked its tenth season, recounting its founding in 1999 by Joe Johnson and Christopher Priest and its rise to win the NABBA Honors Section in 2008.
Hannaford Street Silver Band Marks 25th Anniversary — Toronto's Hannaford Street Silver Band celebrated its 25th anniversary season with a concert featuring new Canadian compositions and guest ensemble autorickshaw, reflecting on its founding by Ray Tizzard and Robert Sutherland.
Motor City Brass Band Season and Youth Program Update — Motor City Brass Band opened its 2008-2009 season with 'Horns 'N Howls VIII: Heroes & Villains' and highlighted growth in its youth brass band program supported by Ronald McDonald House Charities.
US Open Brass Band Championships Announces 2008 Lineup — The sixth annual US Open Brass Band Championships announced competing bands and a new partnership with the UK's Brass in Concert Championship, allowing winners to compete in each other's contests.
Back Issues of The Bridge Digitized and Available Online — NABBA archivist Diana Herak completed scanning all back issues of The Brass Band Bridge for online access, except for the still-missing Issue 73 from 1998.
Issue 110 (August 2008) covered brass band festivals affected by extreme weather, including a blizzard-delayed Ohio Brass Arts Festival and a flood-cancelled Iowa festival, alongside reports from the Great American Brass Band Festival and Toronto Festival of Brass. It also documented Douglas Yeo's retirement from the New England Brass Band, new NABBA Board members, Keith Wilkinson's award, and details on the upcoming 2009 NABBA XXVII Championships in Louisville.
In this issue (8)
Douglas Yeo Retires from New England Brass Band — After ten years as Music Director, Douglas Yeo conducted his final concert with the New England Brass Band at Hope Church in Lenox, Massachusetts, and was named Director Emeritus; Stephen Bulla succeeds him.
Flooding Cancels Iowa Festival, Affects Eastern Iowa Brass Band — Historic flooding forced the cancellation of Iowa's Grand Celebration of Brass Bands and impacted members of the Eastern Iowa Brass Band.
Blizzard Delays Ohio Brass Arts Festival — A major snowstorm forced organizers to reschedule the Ohio Brass Arts Festival, hosted by the Central Ohio Brass Band, from March to June 2008.
Great American Brass Band Festival Report — The 19th annual GABBF in Danville, Kentucky featured Fountain City Brass Band as NABBA's official representative and the Southern Territorial Band of the Salvation Army, along with a Band History Conference on Lincoln-era music.
New NABBA Board Members Elected — Six new directors joined the NABBA Board, including Arthur Henry (Atlantic Brass Band), Helen Tyler, Lee Harrelson, and Tom Stein (Fountain City Brass Band), and Rico Belotti and Frank Washburn (Natural State Brass Band).
Keith Wilkinson Honored with God and Country Award — Keith Wilkinson received the 2008 God and Country Music Award from the Salvation Army Columbus Area Services and Brass Band of Columbus, presented by Paul Droste at the Ohio Brass Arts Festival.
Ohio Brass Band Tours England — The Ohio Brass Band, led by Paul Droste, toured England including performances at the Durham Festival of Brass, Brighouse March contest, and the Miners' Gala in Bowburn.
NABBA Bands Ranked in World Brass Band Rankings — The British Bandsman published World of Brass rankings placing seven NABBA member bands in the world's top 125, led by Brass Band of Central Florida at 40.
Issue 109 (May 2008) reviewed the NABBA XXVI Championships held at Indiana University Southeast and the Brown Theatre in Louisville, Kentucky, featuring a new two-venue format and 22 competing bands. The issue also announced NABBA's move to a full Louisville venue for 2009, introduced a regional liaison system, launched an online store, and reported band news including a change of music directors at the New England Brass Band and Triangle Brass Band.
In this issue (8)
NABBA XXVI Championships Held in New Albany and Louisville — 22 bands competed at Indiana University Southeast and the Brown Theatre in Louisville, Kentucky, using a new format with test pieces performed at IUS and choice pieces in Louisville that evening; feedback was strongly positive.
Championships Moving Fully to Louisville for 2009 — After three years at Indiana University Southeast, NABBA announced that the 2009 XXVII Championships would be held entirely at the Brown Theatre and Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, on April 3-4, 2009.
Douglas Yeo Retires from New England Brass Band, Stephen Bulla to Succeed — Douglas Yeo conducted the New England Brass Band at his final NABBA Championships before retiring as music director after a June 1 concert, with Stephen Bulla taking over in the fall; the band also received NABBA's inaugural Recording of the Year Award for its CD 'Be Glad Then America.'
NABBA Introduces Regional Liaisons Under New Bylaws — Following new bylaws adopted in September 2007, NABBA replaced band representatives with a system of regional liaisons to serve as advocates and communication links between member bands and the Board of Directors.
Triangle Brass Band Names New Music Director — Following Dr. Michael Votta's departure to the University of Maryland, the Triangle Brass Band appointed tubist and educator Tony Granados as its new music director.
Motor City Brass Band Receives $20,000 Grant for Youth Band — Motor City Brass Band received a $20,000 grant from Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southeastern Michigan to purchase instruments for its new Motor City Youth Brass Band initiative.
Rocky Mountain Brassworks Hosts Douglas Yeo for Brassfest — Rocky Mountain Brassworks in Denver hosted bass trombonist Douglas Yeo for a week of clinics, culminating in the Rocky Mountain Brassfest at Lakewood High School and a gala concert with conductor Richard Niezen.
Brass Band of Columbus Holds First Young Artist Competition — The Brass Band of Columbus sponsored its First Annual Young Artist Competition, awarding top prize to euphonium player Julia Ware for her performance of Guilmant's Morceau Symphonique.
Issue 108 previewed the XXVI NABBA Championships in New Albany, Indiana and Louisville, Kentucky, including format changes to the Championship Section contest. The issue also paid tribute to Spokane British Brass Band music director Mark Williams, who died tragically in January 2008, and announced the New England Brass Band's win of the inaugural NABBA Recording of the Year award.
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In Memoriam: Mark Williams — Spokane British Brass Band music director Mark Williams died tragically in January 2008; the band and NABBA paid tribute to his eight years of leadership and contributions to brass banding.
XXVI NABBA Championships Preview — The 26th NABBA Championships were set for March 28-29, 2008 at Indiana University Southeast and the Brown Theater in Louisville, with 22 bands competing and a new format replacing the gala band with continued Championship Section performances.
New England Brass Band Wins Inaugural Recording of the Year — New England Brass Band's CD 'Be Glad Then America,' recorded in Boston's Symphony Hall, won NABBA's first Recording of the Year contest, judged by Lt. Col. Timothy Holton.
Stephen Bulla Named New England Brass Band Music Director — Composer and arranger Stephen Bulla was appointed as the New England Brass Band's new Music Director starting September 2008, succeeding Douglas Yeo.
NABBA Board Elections and New Members — NABBA announced the election of Don Kneeburg and Theresa MacDonald to the Board, and called for nominations for 10 open board seats to be filled in June 2008 elections.
Douglas Yeo Visits Triangle Brass Bands — Boston Symphony bass trombonist and NABBA VP Douglas Yeo spent a week in North Carolina working with the Triangle Youth Brass Ensemble, Triangle Youth Brass Band, and Triangle Brass Band, culminating in a concert at Meymandi Concert Hall.
Fountain City Brass Band Launches Youth Academy — Fountain City Brass Band, led by Helen Tyler, launched new youth educational programs including the Fountain City Youth Brass Academy, highlighted by a BRASS EXPO II workshop that was cut short by a building fire alarm.
Ohio Brass Arts Festival Announced — The Central Ohio Brass Band hosted the 2008 Ohio Brass Arts Festival in Columbus, featuring multiple bands, masterclasses, and a composition contest.
This issue recapped the 2007 U.S. Open Brass Band Championships in Arlington Heights, Illinois, where Fountain City Brass Band claimed top honors after already winning the NABBA XXV Championships. It also covered NABBA news including Douglas Yeo's upcoming retirement from the New England Brass Band, the death of longtime Ohio State arranger Richard Heine, and preparations for the NABBA XXVI Championships in Louisville.
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Fountain City Brass Band Becomes Double Champion — Fountain City Brass Band won the Championship section of the NABBA XXV Championships and then took first place at the fifth U.S. Open Brass Band Championships in 2007, becoming double champions for the year.
U.S. Open Brass Band Championships Held at St. Viator High School — The fifth annual U.S. Open Brass Band Championships took place at St. Viator High School in Arlington Heights, Illinois, hosted by Prairie Brass Band, featuring eight bands including the U.K.'s Wingates Band with 11-year-old trombone prodigy Peter Moore.
Douglas Yeo Announces Retirement from New England Brass Band — Douglas Yeo, music director of the New England Brass Band since 1998, announced he will retire from the ensemble at the end of the 2007-08 season, with his final concert set for June 1, 2008 in Lenox, Massachusetts.
Richard Heine, Ohio State Marching Band Arranger, Dies at 91 — Richard Heine, who shaped the sound of The Ohio State University's all-brass Marching Band beginning in 1934, died at age 91, prompting a musical tribute by the OSU Alumni Band and current Marching Band members.
NABBA XXVI Championships Set for Louisville — NABBA announced its XXVI Championships would be held March 28-29, 2008 at Indiana University Southeast and Louisville, Kentucky, with a firm January 11, 2008 deadline for all entries and warnings about a hotel room shortage due to a competing convention.
Weston Silver Band Marks 87th Season with Alumni Concert — The Weston Silver Band of Toronto celebrated its 87th season with a birthday concert featuring former music directors and honoring founder George Sainsbury, following a successful 2007 guest appearance by Black Dyke Band's Richard Marshall.
L.A. Metropolitan Brass Band Debuts — The newly formed L.A. Metropolitan Brass Band performed its inaugural concert for over 300 people at Redondo Union High School Auditorium, introducing the British-style brass band to the greater Los Angeles community.
Aaron VanderWeele Honored at NYSB 120th Anniversary — Aaron VanderWeele of the New York Staff Band of the Salvation Army received the International Euphonium Player of the Year award during the band's 120th Anniversary Reunion Weekend in White Plains, New York.
This issue covered the September 2007 NABBA Board of Directors interim meeting at Indiana University Southeast, which produced a complete revision of NABBA's bylaws and championship rules, the election of Russell Morris as President and Douglas Yeo as Vice President, and the announcement of test pieces for the 2008 NABBA Championships. It also announced a new "Recording of the Year" contest, reported on band news from Motor City Brass Band, Illinois Brass Band, the U.S. Open Brass Band Championships, TBDBITL Alumni Band, Hannaford Street Silver Band, and Bend in the River Brass Band's new music director, and covered summer banding activities in the UK.
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NABBA elects new President and Vice President — Russell Morris was elected NABBA President and Douglas Yeo Vice President, succeeding Anita Cocker Hunt and John de Salme, at the September 2007 Board meeting.
Complete revision of NABBA bylaws and contest rules — The Board approved an entirely new revision of NABBA's bylaws, originally written at its 1983 founding, along with a new format and rules for the 2008 Championships.
2008 NABBA Championships test pieces announced — Test pieces were announced for the 2008 Championships including St. Magnus by Kenneth Downie (Championship section), Journey Into Freedom by Eric Ball (Honors), and works by Gregson, Wood and Sparke for other sections.
New NABBA Recording of the Year contest launched — NABBA introduced an annual 'Recording of the Year' contest for member bands' commercially released CDs, coordinated by John de Salme, with a $200 prize and Steven Mead CDs for winners.
U.S. Open Brass Band Championships lineup announced — The fifth annual U.S. Open, hosted by Prairie Brass Band in Arlington Heights, announced competitors including three-time defending champion Brass Band of Central Florida and debut entrant Wingates Band from England.
Illinois Brass Band places third at NABBA 2007 — Under Dr. Ryan T. Nelson, the Illinois Brass Band placed third in the Championship Division at NABBA 2007 and participated in the first annual Waukegan Band Festival.
Bend in the River Brass Band names new Music Director — Dr. Timothy Zifer of the University of Evansville was appointed Music Director of the Bend in the River Brass Band ahead of its second NABBA Championships appearance.
Heraks perform with UK brass bands during summer visit — Pat and Diana Herak performed with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, Eagley Band, Harrogate Band, and rehearsed with the Sellers International Band during a summer trip to England.
Issue 105 (August 2007) covered NABBA's 25th anniversary activities, including the retirement of President Anita Cocker Hunt and Vice President John de Salme after six years of service, and Board elections that brought new directors. It also detailed Fountain City Brass Band's historic UK tour, competing at the All-England Masters Championships and Whit Friday contests, plus reports from NABBA member bands' concerts and festivals, and announced a new NABBA "Recording of the Year" contest.
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Fountain City Brass Band's UK Triumph — Fountain City Brass Band, NABBA XXV Champion, became the youngest band ever invited to the All-England Masters Championships in Cambridge, placing ninth out of nineteen bands, and also competed in the Whit Friday contests and performed in Glasgow with tuba soloist James Gourlay.
President Anita Cocker Hunt Steps Down — NABBA President Anita Cocker Hunt announced her retirement after six years in office, along with Vice President John de Salme, as the Board prepared to elect new officers in September 2007.
NABBA Board of Directors Elections — New Board elections were held in July 2007, with several directors departing (including Eric Aho, Jay Cohen, John Copella, Jackson Hill, Donald Stine, and Julie Vish) and new members joining ahead of officer elections in September.
New NABBA Recording of the Year Contest — NABBA launched its first 'Recording of the Year' contest for member bands' CDs released in 2007, with judging criteria and a $200 cash prize plus Steven Mead CDs for winners, coordinated by John de Salme.
25th Anniversary Commemorative Items — NABBA marked its 25th anniversary with a history book by Diana Herak, new prize and stand banners from Tor Banners, and a commemorative pin, all available for purchase to support the association.
Nigel Horne Visits US Bands — British conductor Nigel Horne worked with three Maryland-based bands—Spires Brass Band, Benfield Brass Band, and Rockville Brass Band—during a visit to the US, noting the enthusiasm and growth of American brass banding.
New England Brass Band at International Trumpet Guild Conference — The New England Brass Band, led by Douglas Yeo, performed at the International Trumpet Guild Conference featuring cornet soloist Philip Cobb of the International Staff Band.
Natural State Brass Band Clinic with Douglas Yeo — Douglas Yeo conducted clinics with the Natural State Brass Band ahead of the NABBA XXV Championships, helping the band achieve second place in the Challenge Section.
Issue 104 of The Brass Band Bridge (May 2007) covered NABBA's XXV Championships, a milestone 25th anniversary event held at Indiana University Southeast with a record 28 competing bands. The issue featured President Anita Cocker Hunt's recap of the weekend, extensive band competition reviews, new anniversary merchandise, and news from member bands including tributes, concerts, and the inaugural Ohio Brass Arts Festival.
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NABBA XXV 25th Anniversary Championships — NABBA celebrated its 25th anniversary Championships at Indiana University Southeast with a record 28 competing bands, record vendors, and record participants, closing with a gala concert by the USA Southern Territorial Band of the Salvation Army.
Fountain City Brass Band wins Championship Section — Fountain City Brass Band, led by Joseph Parisi, won the Championship Section, with strong performances also noted from Illinois Brass Band, Chicago Brass Band, Brass Band of Central Florida, Brass Band of the Western Reserve, Atlantic Brass Band, and James Madison University Brass Band.
NABBA History Book and Anniversary Merchandise — NABBA historian Diana Herak published an 89-page book chronicling the association's first 25 years, while Tor Banners of Leeds supplied new prize and stand banners and NABBA released a 25th anniversary commemorative pin.
Death of trombonist Glenn Dodson — The Lancaster British Brass Band paid tribute to former Philadelphia Orchestra principal trombonist Glenn Dodson, a founding member of the band, who died unexpectedly on April 7, 2007.
Inaugural Ohio Brass Arts Festival — The Central Ohio Brass Band hosted the first Ohio Brass Arts Festival in Westerville, Ohio, featuring the OSU Alumni Active Band, Brass Band of Columbus, Pendel Brass and Singers, and other groups, showcasing Ohio's dense concentration of brass bands.
Lexington Brass Band 15th Anniversary Concert — The Lexington Brass Band, directed by Ronald Holz, celebrated its 15th season with a concert featuring guest artists Terry Everson, Skip Gray, and Douglas Yeo.
22nd Annual God and Country Concert — The Brass Band of Columbus and the Pendel Brass and Singers presented the 22nd Annual God and Country Concert in Columbus, Ohio, including award presentations and scholarships.
This March 2007 issue previewed the 25th anniversary NABBA Championships at Indiana University Southeast and Louisville, featuring 28 competing bands, new sponsorships from Buffet Crampon and Tor Designs, and an interview with NABBA founder J. Perry Watson. The issue also covered the Brass Band of Central Florida's trip to England, band news, youth band features, and concert program listings from member bands.
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NABBA XXV Championships Preview — The 25th anniversary NABBA Championships was previewed, featuring 28 bands, an expanded solo and ensemble contest, and a gala concert by the USA Southern Territorial Band of the Salvation Army with soloist Sheona White.
Buffet Crampon Becomes Major Sponsor — Buffet Crampon USA, owners of Besson and Antoine Courtois Paris, pledged $10,000 to become a major sponsor of NABBA XXV, arranged through NABBA board member Joe Johnson.
Tor Designs Partnership for Banners — NABBA partnered with Tor Designs Ltd. of Leeds, England to supply music stand banners and newly designed prize banners for the NABBA Championships, the first banner redesign in over two decades.
Brass Band of Central Florida Tours England — The Brass Band of Central Florida traveled to England for the Brass in Concert Championship in Gateshead, recorded a CD with World of Brass, performed alongside Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and took fourth place in the competition.
J. Perry Watson Interview - NABBA Founder Retrospective — An interview with NABBA founder J. Perry Watson provided insight into the early years of NABBA, recalling the first NABBA Championships held in 1983 in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Cincinnati Honors Youth Brass Band Feature — The Cincinnati Honors Youth Brass Band, founded in 2002 under conductor Greg Mills and sponsored by the Cincinnati Brass Band, was featured entering its fifth year, highlighting its growth and NABBA Youth Section participation.
James Madison University Brass Band Hosts Katrina Marzella — Katrina Marzella, principal baritone of the Fairey Band, visited the James Madison University Brass Band for five days, performing as soloist and giving a master class.
Ohio Brass Arts Festival Inaugural Event — The Central Ohio Brass Band hosted the inaugural Ohio Brass Arts Festival featuring seven bands including contesting, non-contesting, and Salvation Army ensembles, with guest clinicians from national champion bands.
Issue 102 of The Brass Band Bridge (December 2006) announced a new "NABBA Recording of the Year" contest for member bands and included editor Douglas Yeo's preview of upcoming events like the Mineworker's Open Brass Band Festival and NABBA XXV. The issue featured extensive band news including the New England Brass Band's performance at the Boston Symphony's 125th anniversary, the New York Staff Band's 120th Anniversary Festival, and a retrospective on the U.S. Open Brass Band Championships.
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NABBA Recording of the Year Contest Established — The NABBA Board voted to create a new annual contest for member bands' commercially released CDs, coordinated by John de Salme, with judging criteria and a $200 prize plus Steven Mead CDs for winners.
New England Brass Band at Boston Symphony's 125th Anniversary — The New England Brass Band, led by music director Douglas Yeo, opened the Boston Symphony Orchestra's 125th anniversary Open House at Symphony Hall, with Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart guest-conducting Liberty Fanfare.
New York Staff Band 120th Anniversary Festival — The Salvation Army's New York Staff Band planned its 120th Anniversary Festival of Music featuring guest trombone soloist Brett Baker of Black Dyke Band, with a premiere transcription of Mendelssohn's Reformation Symphony finale.
U.S. Open Brass Band Championships Retrospective — The fourth annual U.S. Open Brass Band Championships, an entertainment-style contest sponsored by the Prairie Brass Band, was held at St. Viator High School in Illinois, attracting NABBA bands and growing worldwide attention.
Derby City Brass Band Concert with Jason Ham — The Derby City Brass Band presented a concert at the University of Louisville featuring euphonium soloist Jason Ham of the U.S. Military Academy Band, conducted by John Jones, including a tribute to Shostakovich's 1959 Louisville visit.
Triangle Youth Brass Band Launches New Ensemble — The Triangle Youth Brass Band began its 10th season and launched a new Triangle Youth Brass Ensemble, expanding its youth program to serve nearly 80 young musicians.
Georgia Youth Symphony Brass Band Debuts — The Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra Brass Band gave its debut concert at the new Dozier Center for the Performing Arts near Atlanta, drawing nearly 1400 attendees with guest euphonium soloist Adam Frey.
Natural State Brass Band's World Children's Day Concert — The Natural State Brass Band, directed by Russell Morris, performed a family-oriented benefit concert for Ronald McDonald House Charities featuring young cornet soloist Addison Anderson and a cameo by Ronald McDonald on triangle.
Issue 101 of The Brass Band Bridge (October 2006) featured a lengthy feature article by Lt. Col. Thomas Palmatier offering practical conducting advice for brass bands, plus President Anita Cocker Hunt's report from the International Music Camp. The issue also covered the NABBA Silver Bells Capital Campaign donor list, previews of upcoming contests including the U.S. Open and NABBA XXV in Louisville, and news updates from member bands including the Georgia Brass Band and Commonwealth Brass Band.
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Palmatier's Blue Collar Guide for Brass Band Conductors — Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Palmatier wrote an extensive feature article sharing practical conducting advice on balance, rhythm, articulation, tuning, dynamics, and stage presence, drawn from decades of experience with bands including the Dominion Brass Band.
President's Report from the International Music Camp — NABBA President Anita Cocker Hunt described conducting the brass band at the International Music Camp on the North Dakota/Manitoba border, a role she took over from Paul Droste after his retirement.
Silver Bells Capital Campaign Donor List — NABBA published an updated list of donors to its Silver Bells Capital Campaign, a fund supporting the annual Championship and NABBA's future growth, coordinated by Treasurer Jim Grate.
NABBA XXV Championship Hotel Warning — Editor Douglas Yeo urged bands to book hotels early for the NABBA XXV Championship in April 2007 at Indiana University Southeast in Louisville, noting there would be no official NABBA hotel and over 6000 rooms being booked by other conventions.
Black Dyke Band Wins British Open Again — Black Dyke Band continued its dominant run by claiming the British Open Championship again, while the Brass Band of Central Florida prepared to compete in the Brass in Concert Championship in Newcastle, England.
Georgia Brass Band Becomes Resident Ensemble at Dozier Centre — The Georgia Brass Band was named a resident ensemble of the new Dozier Centre for the Performing Arts in Kennesaw, Georgia, and began mentoring the newly-formed Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra Brass Band led by GBB trombonist Dr. Tom Gibson.
Commonwealth Brass Band Names New Associate Director — Anita Cocker Hunt, Music Director of the Cincinnati Brass Band and Athena Brass Band and NABBA President, became Associate Director of the Commonwealth Brass Band and joined the Indiana University Southeast music faculty.
This landmark 100th issue of The Brass Band Bridge, edited by Douglas Yeo, reflected on NABBA's history since founding by J. Perry Watson and celebrated the transition to an all-electronic publication format. The issue covered summer 2006 brass band festivals including Ashland, Iowa Grand Celebration, International Trumpet Guild Conference, International Women's Brass Conference featuring the Athena Brass Band, and the Great American Brass Band Festival, alongside NABBA organizational news ahead of the 2007 25th anniversary championship.
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The Bridge Reaches Issue 100 — Editor Douglas Yeo reflected on the history of The Brass Band Bridge since its founding by NABBA founder J. Perry Watson, noting the successful transition to an all-electronic format with over 4600 downloads of Issue 99.
Karen Kneeburg Profiled in New 'Whatever Happened To' Series — The first installment of a new retrospective series profiled Karen (KD) Kneeburg, the first woman to lead a band at a NABBA contest, whose Sunshine Brass Band won the first 'hat trick' of three consecutive Honors section titles in 1984-1986.
Silver Bells Capital Campaign Launched — NABBA announced a capital fundraising campaign to support the annual championship and expand association activities, with donations listed from individuals, bands, and corporations.
Athena Brass Band Performs at International Women's Brass Conference — The all-female Athena Brass Band, conducted by NABBA president Anita Cocker Hunt and organized by Laura Lineberger, gave a gala concert at the International Women's Brass Conference at Illinois State University.
NABBA Bands Shine at Great American Brass Band Festival — The James Madison University Brass Band, Lexington Brass Band, and London Citadel Band represented NABBA at the Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky, with JMU earning a standing ovation at the Saturday Picnic concert.
Ashland Brass Band Festival Celebrates 11th Year — The Ashland Brass Band Festival in Kentucky, founded by Jackson Hill of the Brass Band of the Tri-State, featured performances by Commonwealth Brass Band, Jericho Brass, Central Ohio Brass Band, and the host band.
Iowa Grand Celebration of Brass Bands Held at Ushers Ferry — The 12th annual Grand Celebration of Brass Bands, hosted by the Eastern Iowa Brass Band, featured performances by the Illinois Brass Band and Chicago Brass Band despite rain cutting the event short.
NABBA XXV Championship Announced for 2007 — NABBA's 25th annual Brass Band Championship was scheduled for April 13-14, 2007 at Indiana University Southeast in Louisville, Kentucky, with new test pieces and rule changes discussed at the August board meeting.
Issue 99 marked a major transition as The Brass Band Bridge became an electronic-only PDF publication under new editor Douglas Yeo. The bulk of the issue covered detailed reviews and results of the NABBA XXIV Championship held at Indiana University Southeast and Louisville, Kentucky, across Championship, Honors, Challenge, Explorer, and Youth sections, along with solo/ensemble and gala concert coverage.
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The Bridge Becomes Digital-Only Publication — New editor Douglas Yeo announced that starting with Issue 99, The Brass Band Bridge would be published only as a downloadable PDF, ending its print run to save costs and improve timeliness, in tandem with a new website.
Brass Band of Columbus Wins Championship Section — Conducted by Tim Jameson, the Brass Band of Columbus won the Championship Section of NABBA XXIV with 281.0 points, continuing the legacy founded by Dr. Paul Droste in 1984.
New England Brass Band Tops Honors Section — Under Douglas Yeo, the New England Brass Band won the Honors Section performing Gilbert Vinter's Spectrum and Philip Sparke's The Year of the Dragon, edging out the Cincinnati Brass Band.
Georgia Brass Band Debuts and Wins Challenge Section — Making its first NABBA appearance, the Georgia Brass Band under Joe Johnson won the Challenge Section with a commanding performance, ahead of Spires Brass Band and six other bands.
Brass Band of the Tri-State Wins Explorer Section — The Brass Band of the Tri-State, conducted by Gary Clarke, won the newly competitive Explorer Section over the All-Star Brass and Percussion band led by Eric Aho.
Triangle Youth Brass Band Wins Youth Section Again — Triangle Youth Brass Band, led by Tony Granados, won the Youth Section for a fourth time, ahead of Cincinnati Honors Youth Band and the Junior Varsity All-Stars.
Gala Concert Featured Simone Rebello and Allen Vizzutti — The NABBA XXIV Gala Concert featured guest soloists Simone Rebello and Allen Vizzutti along with the Lexington Brass Band conducted by Dr. Ronald Holz.
The Winter 2006 issue of The Brass Band Bridge previewed the 24th NABBA Championships hosted in Louisville with 24 bands competing, and celebrated the Motor City Brass Band's 10th anniversary along with recent successes of the Chicago Brass Band and Brass Band of Central Florida at international contests. The issue also featured Ronald Holz's detailed reading band reviews, book reviews of British conductor memoirs, an in-depth guide by Douglas Yeo on producing a commercial CD, and updates on military bands from Lt. Col. Tom Palmatier.
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24th NABBA Championships Announced — President Anita Cocker Hunt announced the 24th annual NABBA Championships would be held in Louisville at Indiana University Southeast, with 24 bands competing including several new entrants.
Motor City Brass Band Celebrates 10th Anniversary — The Motor City Brass Band, directed by Craig Strain, marked its 10th anniversary with a special concert at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan.
Chicago Brass Band and Brass Band of Central Florida Honored — NABBA congratulated the Chicago Brass Band for its performance at the World Brass Band Championships and the Brass Band of Central Florida for representing NABBA well at the British Open.
NABBA Reading Band Reviews — Ronald Holz detailed the reading band session at the NABBA conference, reviewing numerous new brass band works read by conductors including Stephen Bulla, Brian Burditt, William Himes, Kenneth Moore, Kevin Norbury, and Stephen Roberts.
Recording a CD With Your Band — Douglas Yeo of the New England Brass Band shared the band's experience producing four commercial CDs, including recording sessions at Boston's Symphony Hall, and offered advice for other NABBA bands considering recordings.
Book Reviews: British Band Memoirs — Diana Herak reviewed two autobiographies from the British brass band scene: 'Dick the Stick' by Richard Evans, conductor of Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and 'Beyond the Box' by adjudicator David Read.
Military Bands Update — Lt. Col. Tom Palmatier, NABBA Past President and now Commandant of the U.S. Army School of Music in Norfolk, Virginia, reported on the ongoing work of military bands supporting troops during Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom.
Request for Assistance: NABBA Music Database — Douglas Yeo announced a new NABBA website resource, nabbamusic.org, cataloging music played at NABBA contests, and requested member contributions including info on solo/ensemble winners.
This Fall 2005 issue of The Brass Band Bridge reviewed the NABBA 2005 Championships held at Pheasant Run Resort, with detailed adjudications across Youth, Explorer, Honors, Challenge, and Championship sections. It also covered the Chicago Brass Band's historic trip to represent NABBA at the first World Brass Band Championships in Kerkrade, Holland, plus exhibitor news, awards, and a new editor taking over the journal.
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Brass Band of Central Florida wins NABBA 2005 Championship Section — The Brass Band of Central Florida narrowly beat the defending champion Brass Band of Chicago by 0.6 points to win the Championship Section, mirroring the razor-thin margin of the previous year's contest in reverse.
Spires Brass Band tops Challenge Section — The Spires Brass Band of Maryland won the Challenge Section ahead of Natural State Brass Band, Spokane British Brass Band, and Commonwealth Band, judged by Kevin Norbury, Stephen Bulla, and Stephen Roberts.
James Madison University Brass Band wins Honors Section — Defending champion James Madison University Brass Band won the highly competitive Honors Section over Central Ohio Brass Band, Sunshine Brass Band, Ozark Mountain British Brass Band, Prairie Brass Band, and Sheldon Theatre Brass Band.
Chicago Brass Band represents NABBA at World Brass Band Championships — Having won the 2004 NABBA Championship, the Chicago Brass Band traveled to Kerkrade, Holland to represent North America at the inaugural World Brass Band Championships hosted by the World Music Contest, performing Philip Wilby's newly commissioned test piece amid challenging conditions.
Central Illinois Brass Band debuts as new Explorer Section entrant — One of NABBA's newest bands, the Central Illinois Brass Band, made its first NABBA appearance and won the Explorer Section as its only entrant.
Cincinnati Honors Brass Band wins Youth Section — The Cincinnati Honors Brass Band was the only entrant in the Youth Section and took first place, in its second NABBA appearance.
Eric Aho becomes new Editor of The Brass Band Bridge — Dr. Eric W. Aho took over as Editor of The Brass Band Bridge from longtime editor Colin Holman, who had served for eight years, announcing the journal would now publish three issues a year.
Athena Brass Band and Chicago Brass Band perform at Great American Brass Band Festival — NABBA President Anita Cocker Hunt conducted the all-women Athena Brass Band at the Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky, where the Chicago Brass Band also represented NABBA before an estimated crowd of 40,000.
Issue 96 (Fall 2004) covered NABBA's plans for the 2005 championship at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, IL, run for the first time by the Board itself without a host band, and announced Louisville's successful bid to host NABBA 2006. The issue also marked editor Colin Holman's final issue after over eight years, with Eric Aho named as his successor, and featured a detailed comparison of the 2004 NABBA Championships with the 2004 British National Brass Band Championships by Diana Herak.
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NABBA 2005 Championship to be Board-run at Pheasant Run — With no host band available for 2005, the NABBA Board decided to run the championship itself at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, Illinois, on March 11-12, 2005, using volunteer help and free conference space.
Louisville and Indiana University Southeast to host NABBA 2006 — The NABBA Board accepted a joint proposal from the Louisville Chamber of Commerce and Indiana University Southeast to host the championship in 2006, with plans to make Louisville a permanent host site.
Editor transition: Colin Holman to Eric Aho — After more than eight years as editor of The Brass Band Bridge, Colin Holman stepped down, with euphonium player and All-Star Brass Band figure Eric Aho appointed as the new editor.
Board changes: new treasurer and departing officers — Sara North stepped down as NABBA Treasurer after many years of service and was replaced by Jim Grate, while Robin Weatherall resigned as competition event manager and website manager due to increased professional commitments, and John de Salme announced he would leave the Contest Controller role after the 2005 competition.
Diana Herak compares NABBA and British Nationals — NABBA board member Diana Herak, who played euphonium/baritone with the Brass Band of Columbus and later joined England's Travelsphere Holidays Band, wrote a detailed comparison of the 2004 NABBA Championships in Charleston, WV, and the 2004 British National Championships at Royal Albert Hall, where Black Dyke Band won first place.
2004 NABBA Championship results and Gala Concert — The 2004 NABBA Championships in Charleston, WV featured 25 bands across six sections, with the Chicago Brass Band winning the Championship Section and the Brass Band of Columbus finishing fifth; the Gala Concert featured the Morehead State University Percussion Ensemble and the New York Staff Band of the Salvation Army.
Test pieces selected for NABBA 2005 — The NABBA Board selected test pieces for the 2005 championship, choosing Harrison's Dream for the Championship division and Coventry Variations for the Honors division, among other selections for Challenge, Explorer, and Youth sections.
Gala Concert to feature Chicago Staff Band of the Salvation Army — The 2005 NABBA Championship Gala Concert was announced to feature the Chicago Staff Band of the Salvation Army under Music Director William Himes.
This post-contest issue covered the 2004 NABBA XXII championships in Charleston, West Virginia, won by the Chicago Brass Band, who earned the right to represent NABBA at the 2005 World Music Contest. It also included board meeting minutes announcing NABBA XXIII's move to Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, Illinois, Editor Colin Holman's announcement of stepping down, and extensive brass band news and music reviews.
In this issue (8)
Chicago Brass Band Wins NABBA XXII Championship — The Chicago Brass Band, directed by Colin Holman, won the Championship section at NABBA XXII in Charleston, West Virginia, and accepted the invitation to represent NABBA at the 2005 World Brass Band Competition.
NABBA XXIII Set for Pheasant Run Resort — The NABBA Board voted to hold the 2005 championship (NABBA XXIII) at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, Illinois, choosing Chicago for its accessibility, with the entire resort available at no cost to NABBA.
Editor Colin Holman Announces Departure — After more than eight years as editor of The Brass Band Bridge, Colin Holman announced he would step down once a successor is found, while continuing as New Music Editor.
NABBA Board Discusses Archives and Organization Changes — The NABBA Board reviewed treasurer's reports, archives relocation from Bert Wiley to Eric Aho's Brass Band Center in Columbus, new CD recording equipment for judges, and rules for representing NABBA at the 2005 World Brass Band Competition.
Gala Concert Featured New York Staff Band — The NABBA XXII Gala Concert at the Clay Center opened with the Morehead State University Percussion Ensemble and featured a brilliant second half performed by The New York Staff Band.
Wenatchee British Brass Band Returns After Hiatus — The Wenatchee British Brass Band, led by Jeff Sandberg, resumed operations after a five-year hiatus, performing its first formal concert in March 2004.
Keith Wilkinson Leads Newtongrange Silver to Scottish Title — Keith Wilkinson directed Newtongrange Silver Band to first place in the First Section of the Scottish Championships in Motherwell, performing Coventry Variations.
St Louis Brass Band Featured in PBS Documentary — The St Louis Brass Band, directed by Colin Holman, participated in a PBS documentary about the 1904 St. Louis Fair and planned a recreation concert of that era's brass band programs.
This pre-contest issue previewed NABBA XXII, hosted by the Brass Band of the Tri-State and Mountain State Brass Band in Charleston, West Virginia, in April 2004. It also featured President Anita Cocker Hunt's update on NABBA affairs, a detailed report on the RNCM Festival of Brass in Manchester, England, and news of brass band concerts and personnel around North America.
In this issue (7)
NABBA XXII Competition Schedule Announced — The 2004 NABBA championships were set to be hosted by the Brass Band of the Tri-State and Mountain State Brass Band in Charleston, West Virginia, featuring a gala concert with the New York Staff Band and Morehead State University Percussion Ensemble.
President's Podium: NABBA Board Update — President Anita Cocker Hunt reported on preparations for the Charleston competition, a new hosting manual developed by Louis Bourgois, and an invitation for NABBA to attend the World Brass Band Contest in Kerkrade.
RNCM Festival of Brass Report — Diana Herak recounted attending the Royal Northern College of Music Festival of Brass in Manchester, featuring the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, Fairey FP (Music) Band, Fodens Richardson Band, RNCM Brass Band, Buy As You View Cory Band, and Black Dyke Band, plus a visit to a Black Dyke Band rehearsal in Queensbury.
Black Dyke Band Tours with Atlantic Brass Band — The Atlantic Brass Band hosted the Black Dyke Band, led by Nicholas Childs, for concerts and masterclasses featuring soloists Roger Webster, Brett Baker, David Thornton, Joseph Cook, and Phil Smith.
Motor City Brass Band's Busy Year — Motor City Brass Band, led by Craig Strain, closed out an active year with 26 performances including their annual holiday concert and appearances with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and hosted trombonist Brett Baker for masterclasses.
Brass Band of Central Florida Hosts Childs Family — The Brass Band of Central Florida, led by Michael J. Garasi, planned to host euphonium soloist David Childs and conductor Robert Childs for a March 2004 concert featuring John Golland's Concerto No. 1.
Imperial Brass Seeks New Music Director — Imperial Brass announced a search for a new Music Director while continuing performances, including a joint concert with the Rahway High School Band and Chorus.
Issue 93 (December 2003) reported on the Illinois Brass Band's historic invitation to the British Open Championships in Birmingham, England, the first time a non-Commonwealth band had competed there. The issue also covered the inaugural U.S. Open Brass Band Championships won by Fodens Richardson Band, NABBA XXII competition plans, and numerous band news items, concert reports, and recording reviews.
In this issue (8)
Illinois Brass Band at British Open — The Illinois Brass Band, directed by Peter Lipari, became the first band from outside the Commonwealth invited to compete in the 151-year history of the British Open Brass Band Championships in Birmingham, England, placing 16th among 18 elite bands.
First U.S. Open Brass Band Championships — The Prairie Brass Band hosted the first U.S. Open Brass Band Championships in Arlington Heights, which was won by the Fodens Richardson Band from England, with the Brass Band of Central Florida as runners-up.
NABBA XXII Announced — NABBA XXII was announced to be hosted by the Brass Band of the Tri-State and Mountain State Brass Band, featuring a gala concert with the New York Staff Band and Morehead State University Percussion Ensemble.
President's Podium Update — NABBA President Anita Cocker Hunt congratulated the Illinois Brass Band and Prairie Brass Band on their recent competition successes and reported on ongoing efforts to find a permanent NABBA contest location.
Brass Band of Columbus Featuring Philip Sparke — The Brass Band of Columbus, directed by Paul Droste, performed a concert of works by composer Philip Sparke, featuring cornet soloist Dan King performing the Concerto for Cornet and Brass Band as part of his doctoral studies.
Brett Baker Guest Performances — British trombone virtuoso Brett Baker made his third visit to perform with Brass Band of the Western Reserve under Keith Wilkinson, and also gave a masterclass to the Central Ohio Youth Band and performed with Motor City Brass Band.
Georgia Brass Band at Brassfest — The Georgia Brass Band, led by Joe Johnson and Christopher Priest, made its third appearance at BRASSFEST at Georgia State University with guest artists Adam Frey, John Marcellus, and Loet van der Lee, and released its first live CD.
Recording Reviews — The issue included reviews of several new brass band recordings including Cory Band's 'Heritage' and 'Wildfire', Black Dyke Band's movie hits album, Brass Band of Central Florida's debut CD, and Steven Mead's euphonium recording with the Fairey Band.
Issue 92 (June 2003) of The Brass Band Bridge focused heavily on reviews of the NABBA XXI Championships held in Little Rock, including solo and ensemble contest results, alongside news of the Illinois Brass Band becoming the first non-UK/Commonwealth band invited to compete at the 151st British Open. The issue also covered the newly formed Athena Brass Band's debut at the International Women's Brass Conference and the Cuyahoga Valley Brass Band's performance at Severance Hall.
In this issue (7)
Illinois Brass Band invited to British Open — The Illinois Brass Band, directed by Peter Lipari, accepted an invitation to compete in the 151st British Open on September 13, 2003, becoming the first band from outside the UK/Commonwealth to participate in the contest's 150-year history, performing a transcription of Holst's The Planets.
Athena Brass Band debuts at IWBC — A new all-women's ensemble, Athena Brass Band, founded by Laura Lineberger and conducted by Anita Cocker-Hunt, was formed from members of various NABBA bands and performed at the International Women's Brass Conference in Bloomington, IL, premiering a commissioned work by Anne McGinty.
Cuyahoga Valley Brass Band plays Severance Hall — The Cuyahoga Valley Brass Band, directed by Keith Wilkinson, performed at Severance Hall, home of the Cleveland Orchestra, as guests of Case Western Reserve University, showcasing original brass band repertoire.
NABBA XXI Championships review - Little Rock — The 2003 NABBA Championships in Little Rock were reviewed as one of the finest to date, featuring a pre-contest concert by the UK's Grimethorpe Colliery Band, competition from Stavanger Brass Band, six first-time competing bands, and the premiere of Kevin Norbury's commissioned work Spirit of Adventure.
Solo competition results announced — Winners were named across several NABBA solo divisions including Amy Nelson (Chicago Brass Band) in Adult High Brass Technical, Matthew Vangjel (James Madison University) in Adult High Brass Slow Melody, David Dimmit (Ozarks Mountain British Brass Band) in Youth Brass Solo, and Mark Windham (Henderson State University) in Adult Low Brass Technical.
NABBA XXII 2004 announced — NABBA announced its next championship, NABBA XXII 2004, to be hosted by the Brass Band of the Tri-State and Mountain State Brass Band, featuring a gala concert with the Morehead State University Percussion Ensemble and the North American Gala Brass Band.
Magazine production changes at NABBA — Editor Colin Holman explained that NABBA had moved the Brass Band Bridge's production to Chicago and introduced electronic versions to save costs and improve efficiency for the association's roughly 1,000 members.
This pre-contest issue of The Brass Band Bridge previewed NABBA XXI in Little Rock, Arkansas, featuring guest bands Reading Band and Grimethorpe Colliery Band. It also covered the Weston Silver Band's Slow Melody Contest in Toronto, a major brass band gathering in Michigan, and extensive concert news and reviews of new brass band music and recordings.
In this issue (7)
NABBA XXI Preview in Little Rock — NABBA President Anita Cocker Hunt reported on final preparations for the NABBA XXI contest in Little Rock, Arkansas, hosted by the Solid Brass Band, with guest performances by the Reading Band and Grimethorpe Colliery Band.
Ryan Baker Wins Weston Slow Melody Contest — Weston Silver Band's principal cornet Ryan Baker won the Jack and Trudie Thomas Trophy at the band's annual Slow Melody Contest in Toronto, judged by Ivor Snell, performing 'Hear My Prayer' (O for the Wings of a Dove).
Brass Band Extravaganza in Michigan — Guest conductor Bram Gregson led a massed brass band event in Lansing, Michigan, combining the Northern Michigan Brass Band, Capital City Brass Band, and Motor City Brass Band before an enthusiastic audience of several hundred.
Brass Band of Central Florida's Milestone Year — The Brass Band of Central Florida reviewed a successful year including concerts with soloists Philip Smith and David Childs, a third-place finish at NABBA 2002 in Cincinnati, and the release of its debut CD 'Brass A-Peel.'
Commonwealth Brass Band Tuba Feature Concert — The Commonwealth Brass Band, led by Jerome Amend with new associate conductor Pam Fleitz, presented a concert spotlighting its tuba section and featuring soloists in New Albany, Indiana.
Salvation Army Lenten Concert in Michigan — Musicians from several southeast Michigan Salvation Army bands, including the Motor City Brass Band and Royal Oak Citadel Band, gathered under John Aren to perform a Lenten program of Salvation Army music.
New Brass Band Music Reviewed — Colin Holman reviewed new brass band sheet music releases including Philip Sparke's arrangement of 'Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring,' Nigel Hall's 'Courtly Dances from Gloriana,' Goff Richards' 'Fundador,' and Martin Ellerby's 'New World Dances.'
Issue 90 (Fall/Winter 2002) of The Brass Band Bridge covered NABBA's administrative transition, consolidating membership operations to Columbus, Ohio, and moving Bridge production to Colin Holman in Chicago. It also featured a detailed multi-part history of the James Shepherd Versatile Brass ensemble, previews of NABBA XXI and XXII championships, and numerous brass band concert programs from across North America.
In this issue (7)
NABBA Membership and Bridge Production Transition — NABBA consolidated all band and individual memberships to a new Columbus, Ohio address and moved Bridge production to editor Colin Holman in Chicago, after years of handling by Bert Wiley in North Carolina.
Bert Wiley Awarded Lifetime Membership — The NABBA Board honored longtime Registered Agent/Historian Bert Wiley with a Lifetime Membership after he sold his business (Bernel Music) and took on full-time ministry duties, continuing as archives custodian.
NABBA XXI and XXII Championships Announced — NABBA XXI was set for April 2003 in Little Rock, Arkansas, hosted by Solid Brass with a gala concert by the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, while NABBA XXII was awarded to Charleston, West Virginia for 2004, co-hosted by the Brass Band of the Tri-State and Mountain State Brass Band.
Reminiscences of the James Shepherd Versatile Brass (JSVB) — Chris Helme's feature traced the founding of the James Shepherd Versatile Brass in 1972 by former Black Dyke Mills Band principal cornet Jim Shepherd, profiling founding members including David Horsfield, Peter Ferris, Brian Wood, David Moore, and Derek Southcott.
World Premiere of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony for Brass Band — The Commonwealth Brass Band under Jerome Amend presented the world premiere of Bram Gay's brass band arrangement of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony at Indiana University Southeast.
Athena All-Female Brass Band Premiere Announced — An all-female brass band called Athena, conceived by Laura Lineberger of the Spires Brass Band, was set to premiere at the International Women's Brass Conference at Illinois State University with a new piece by composer Anne McCrilly.
Earle W. Dickinson Named Director of Eastern Iowa Brass Band — Earle W. Dickinson, a longtime Iowa band director and honored educator, was appointed Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Eastern Iowa Brass Band.
Issue 89 (September 2002) of The Brass Band Bridge covered NABBA's presence at the Great American Brass Band Festival, the Montclair and Ashland brass band festivals, and new music reviews. It also reported on the August 2002 NABBA Board Meeting, including the 2003 testpiece selections and plans for NABBA XXI in Little Rock featuring the Grimethorpe Colliery Band.
In this issue (8)
Cincinnati Brass Band and Southern Territorial Band at GABBF — Cincinnati Brass Band (Anita Hunt) and the Salvation Army's Southern Territorial Band (Richard Holz) represented NABBA at the 2002 Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, KY, drawing record crowds and combining for a massed band performance.
NABBA XXI Announced for Little Rock with Grimethorpe Gala — NABBA XXI was scheduled for April 11-12, 2003 in Little Rock, AR, hosted by Solid Brass, featuring a gala concert by the Grimethorpe Colliery Band.
NABBA XXII Set for Charleston, WV — NABBA XXII was announced for April 16-17, 2004 in Charleston, WV, hosted by the Brass Band of the Tri-State, after St. Louis withdrew its offer to host.
New Chicago Brass Band Formed — A newly formed Chicago Brass Band led by Colin Holman began rehearsals in September 2002, founded by Roger Menning, Tabatha Pingitore, Marc Donatelle and Steve Marcus, with support from St. Louis, Lexington and Columbus brass bands.
Montclair Brass Band Festival Features Household Troops Band — The Fourth Annual Montclair Brass Band Festival in NJ featured multiple SA and NABBA bands, a massed trombone choir with jazz artist Jim Pugh, and a visiting Household Troops Band from the UK commemorating their historic 1888 North American tour.
2003 NABBA Testpieces Announced — The NABBA Board selected the 2003 championship testpieces: Montage (Peter Graham) for Championship Section, The Undaunted (Eric Ball) for Honors Section, Partita (Edward Gregson) for Explorer Section, and A Cambrian Suite (Michael Ball) for Youth Section.
NABBA Board Restructures Membership and Publication Processes — The August 2002 Board Meeting in Little Rock approved organizational changes including creation of a Registered Agent/Historian role for Bert Wiley, streamlining of membership and contest information flow, and moving Bridge production to Chicago to cut costs.
Brass Band of Columbus Selected for Midwest Clinic — The Brass Band of Columbus was selected to perform at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago in December 2002, marking its third appearance at the prestigious international band conference.
This post-contest issue of The Brass Band Bridge covered NABBA XX in Cincinnati, marking twenty years of NABBA competitions, with the Brass Band of Columbus and Illinois Brass Band tying for first place for the first time in NABBA history. The issue also included extensive band news, concert programs, a review of youth ensemble competitions, and announcements about future NABBA championships in Little Rock and St. Louis.
In this issue (8)
Historic Tie at NABBA XX — The Brass Band of Columbus and the Illinois Brass Band tied for first place at NABBA XX in Cincinnati, the first such tie in NABBA history; BBC won for a record ninth time while IBB became the first band to record a double hat-trick of consecutive wins.
Twenty Years of NABBA Competitions — The issue featured a Roll of Honor listing winners of NABBA competitions over its twenty-year history, compiled from the archives.
NABBA XX Hosted in Cincinnati — The Cincinnati Brass Band hosted NABBA XX, with President Dwight Wages and a steering committee praised for organizing a successful weekend, including a Friday night concert by the Lexington Brass Band with Vincent DiMartino and a Gala Concert by the Brass Band of Battle Creek.
Future NABBA Championships Announced — NABBA XXI was announced for Little Rock, AR, hosted by Solid Brass with a Gala Concert by the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and NABBA XXII was set for St. Louis, MO, hosted by the St. Louis Brass Band.
Hannaford Street Silver Band Concert with David Daws — Under Bandmaster Brian Burditt, the Hannaford Street Silver Band presented a concert in Toronto featuring cornet soloist David Daws, formerly principal cornet of the International Staff Band, performing works including Golden Slippers and Wondrous Day.
Youth Ensembles Compete at NABBA XX — Youth brass and percussion ensembles competed at NABBA XX, with the Four Freaky French Horn Substitutes from the All Star Brass and Percussion Ensemble winning the youth brass ensemble category and the Triangle Youth Percussion Ensemble taking top honors in percussion.
Doyen and SP&S Recording Partnership — Doyen Recordings and Salvationist Publishing & Supplies Ltd announced a partnership for the distribution of brass band recordings worldwide, with SP&S becoming proprietors of the entire Doyen catalogue.
Brass Band of Columbus at Midwest Clinic — The Brass Band of Columbus, led by Paul Droste, was selected to represent NABBA at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in December 2002.
The March 2002 issue of The Brass Band Bridge previewed NABBA XX, the 20th anniversary NABBA championships held in Cincinnati, OH, featuring twenty competing bands and a record number of solo and ensemble entries. It also covered the Lake Wobegon Brass Band's concert tour of England and Wales including a performance for the Queen Mother, the Triangle Brass Band's 15th anniversary gala, and Black Dyke Band's US tour sponsored by the Atlantic Brass Band, plus a soloist concert by Philip Smith and David Childs in Orlando.
In this issue (6)
NABBA XX Championships Preview - Cincinnati — The 20th annual NABBA championships were set for April 12-13, 2002 in Cincinnati, OH, hosted by the Cincinnati Brass Band, featuring twenty competing bands, a Friday concert by the Lexington Brass Band with soloist Vincent DiMartino, and a Gala Concert by the Brass Band of Battle Creek.
Lake Wobegon Brass Band Tours England and Wales — The Lake Wobegon Brass Band completed an eight-day, six-concert 'pilgrimage' tour of England and Wales in summer 2001, performing with host bands including the ASDA Stocksbridge Band and Tongwynlais Temperance Silver Band, and became the first American band to perform at the Sandringham Flower Show, where chairman Dick Miller was presented to the Queen Mother.
Triangle Brass Band Celebrates 15th Anniversary — The Triangle Brass Band marked its fifteenth anniversary with a Gala Concert in Durham, NC, reuniting former directors David Reed and Jack Stamp with current director Michael Votta Jr., and honoring Jim Goodmon of Capitol Broadcasting Company for early support of the band.
Black Dyke Band Tours New Jersey and Delaware — Black Dyke Band, the reigning 2001 British National Champions, made a three-day US stopover sponsored by the Atlantic Brass Band, giving clinics at the University of Delaware and Williamstown High School before a sold-out concert featuring soloists Roger Webster, David Thornton, and Brett Baker.
Smith and Childs Wow Florida Audience — The Brass Band of Central Florida hosted soloists Philip Smith of the New York Philharmonic and euphonium virtuoso David Childs for an acclaimed concert at the University of Central Florida in Orlando.
NABBA Future Championships Announced — NABBA announced future championship venues: NABBA XXI in Little Rock, AR (2003) hosted by Solid Brass with a Gala Concert by Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and NABBA XXII in St. Louis, MO (2004) hosted by the St. Louis Brass Band.
Issue 86 (December 2001) covered NABBA news heading into the 2002 Cincinnati championships, including the Motor City Brass Band's performance at the Kennedy Center as Michigan's state representative, new music director appointments at the Illinois and Eastern Iowa Brass Bands, and extensive reports from member bands and Canadian brass activity. The issue also featured George Foster's review of the National Brass Band Championship testpiece Albion and numerous brass band recording and music reviews.
In this issue (8)
Motor City Brass Band represents Michigan at Kennedy Center — The Motor City Brass Band, under director Craig Strain, performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC as part of the Millennium State Day Program, altering their program to patriotic selections following September 11th.
New Music Directors announced for Illinois and Eastern Iowa Brass Bands — The Illinois Brass Band appointed Peter Lipari as its new Music Director, while the Eastern Iowa Brass Band named Thomas L. Nelson as Music Director and Principal Conductor, replacing retiring director John W. de Salme.
Cincinnati Brass Band performs with Cincinnati Pops for organ donor benefit — The Cincinnati Brass Band, led by Anita Cocker Hunt, performed with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra under Erich Kunzel for an organ donor benefit featuring guest performer Jim Nabors, and later played a 9/11 memorial concert and a Habitat for Humanity benefit.
Ashland Brass Band Festival draws largest brass band gathering in the nation — The Brass Band of the Tri-State hosted the 6th Annual Ashland Brass Band Festival in Ashland, KY, featuring eleven brass bands, making it the largest such festival in the country, plus additional patriotic and holiday concerts.
George Foster reviews Albion, the National Brass Band Championship testpiece — George Foster reported on hearing the British National Brass Band Championship, reviewing this year's testpiece Albion by Jan van der Roost.
Commonwealth Brass Band plays double wedding and veterans concerts — The Commonwealth Brass Band, directed by J. Jerome Amend, performed at a double wedding ceremony in Starlight, IN, and later gave concerts honoring military veterans and a joint Christmas concert with area churches.
NABBA XXI and XXII championship sites announced — Future NABBA championships were announced: NABBA XXI in Little Rock, AR (hosted by Solid Brass, with a gala concert by the Grimethorpe Colliery Band) and NABBA XXII in St. Louis, MO (hosted by the St. Louis Brass Band).
Weston Silver Band hosts Jazz 'n Brass concert with Al Kay — Toronto's Weston Silver Band presented a Jazz 'n Brass concert featuring trombonist Al Kay of the Boss Brass, praised for his solo performances, alongside a tribute to retiring Hannaford Street Silver Band cornetist Johnny Cowell.
Issue 85 (September 2001) covered the transition to new NABBA President Anita Cocker Hunt, previewed the 2002 testpieces and NABBA XX championship hosted by the Cincinnati Brass Band, and detailed revised adjudicator guidelines. It also featured summer brass band news, concert programs, and reviews from bands across North America.
In this issue (8)
Anita Cocker Hunt Elected NABBA President — Anita Cocker Hunt was elected as the new NABBA President, succeeding Major Tom Palmatier, who was thanked for his leadership over the previous two years.
NABBA XX Announced for Cincinnati — NABBA XX was scheduled for April 12-13, 2002 in Cincinnati, OH, hosted by the Cincinnati Brass Band, with a Gala Concert by the Brass Band of Battle Creek and adjudicators including Frank Renton, James Curnow, Steve Bulla, Bram Gregson and Colin Holman.
Future NABBA Championships Set — NABBA XXI was announced for Little Rock, AR in 2003 hosted by Solid Brass with a Gala Concert by the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and NABBA XXII for St. Louis, MO in 2004 hosted by the St Louis Brass Band as part of a Gala International Brass Band Festival.
NABBA Adjudicator Guidelines Revised — Following the August 2001 Board meeting, NABBA issued revised guidelines for contest judges, detailing preparation, meeting procedures, scoring standards, and confidentiality rules, compiled by Ronald Holz and contest subcommittee members.
Commonwealth Brass Band Premieres Sparke March — The Commonwealth Brass Band, led by Jerry Amend, gave the North American premiere of Philip Sparke's new march 'Navigation Inn' at the Ashland (KY) Brass Band Festival, a piece commissioned for the Navigation Brass ensemble in England.
Cincinnati Brass Band's Busy Summer — The Cincinnati Brass Band, led by Anita Cocker Hunt, performed multiple summer concerts and joined the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra under Erich Kunzel at Riverbend Center, playing works including Holst's 'Mars' and John Williams's Star Wars theme.
Illinois Brass Band Parts Ways with Conductor — The Illinois Brass Band ended its eight-year partnership with music director Colin Holman and began searching for a new MD while planning a tenth-anniversary concert.
Triangle Brass Band Marks 15th Anniversary — The Triangle Brass Band celebrated its 15th anniversary season, with an upcoming concert featuring soloist Phil Smith and conductor Jack Stamp, the band's former music director.
NABBA held its 2001 championship weekend in Washington, D.C., hosted by The U.S. Army Brass Band, featuring competitions across Championship, Challenge, Youth, and the new Explorer sections, plus a Gala Concert.
This pre-contest issue of The Brass Band Bridge previewed NABBA XIX, held April 20-21, 2001 at Fort Myer, Virginia, hosted by the U.S. Army Brass Band, featuring a record 24 bands across multiple sections. The issue detailed band preparations for the championship test pieces, announced future NABBA host sites through 2003, and included news of conductor changes, tours, and concerts from member bands across North America.
This issue covered the Brass Band of Columbus's trip to Birmingham, England to perform at the 148th British Open Brass Band Championship weekend, along with news from member bands across North America. It also featured a special pullout section explaining brass bands to newcomers and a detailed history of NABBA contests from 1983 to 2000, plus previews of NABBA XIX in Washington DC.
In this issue (7)
Brass Band of Columbus at British Open — The Brass Band of Columbus traveled to Birmingham, England to play at the British Open Brass Band Championship weekend, rehearsing at Symphony Hall with guest conductor Geoffrey Brand and performing American music in the Foyer.
NABBA XIX Preview - Washington DC — NABBA announced plans for its 2001 championship (NABBA XIX) hosted by the U.S. Army Brass Band at Fort Myer, featuring a new commissioned work by Bruce Broughton titled Masters of Space and Time, with soloists Steven Sykes, Pat Sheridan, and Russell Gray.
NABBA Contest History Retrospective — The issue included a detailed history of NABBA's annual championships from the first in 1983 at North Carolina State University through Championship XVIII in 2000, noting winners and milestones such as the Brass Band of Columbus winning a record eighth Championship title.
Cincinnati Brass Band Named Official City Band — The Cincinnati Brass Band performed for the unveiling of the refurbished Tyler-Davidson Fountain and was later resolved by City Council to be named the official brass band of Cincinnati.
Frederick Fennell Visits Triangle Brass Band — Conductor Frederick Fennell visited a rehearsal of the Triangle Brass Band, conducting them in Moorside Suite and discussing his career leading wind ensembles.
Brass Players Museum Opens in Springfield — A new Brass Players Museum opened in Springfield, Massachusetts, displaying more than 80 historic and vintage brass instruments, some available for qualified players to try.
Instant Band Revival Planned for NABBA XIX — David Druce planned to revive the 'Instant Band' concept, last held in 1997 in Red Wing, for NABBA XIX, allowing members to rehearse and perform together on short notice.
Issue 81 (September 2000) of The Brass Band Bridge reported major organizational changes at NABBA, including new leadership roles, a revised membership dues structure, and a new Explorer Section for competitions, alongside commissioned test pieces for 2001. It also covered several member bands' summer activities and tours, including the Brass Band of Columbus and the Illinois Brass Band performing in England, plus new music and recording reviews.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Restructures Leadership and Dues — NABBA President Tom Palmatier announced a strategic plan with new goals, appointed Bert Wiley as the first Executive Administrator and Elmer Hall as Secretary, and revised membership dues categories effective for 2001.
New Explorer Section and 2001 Test Pieces Announced — NABBA added a fourth competition section, the Explorer Section, for 2001 and announced test pieces including a new commission from Bruce Broughton, Masters of Time and Space, for the Championship Section.
Brass Band of Columbus Plays British Open Festival — The Brass Band of Columbus became the first NABBA band featured in an international brass band festival tied to the British Open Championships in Birmingham, England, performing works including Excursions and American Civil War Fantasy under guest conductor Geoffrey Brand.
Illinois Brass Band Tours England — The Illinois Brass Band completed a two-week tour of England and released its fourth recording, Shaken Not Stirred: A Jazz Collection, which sold well; the band also celebrated its first inter-member marriage between cornettists Guy Clark and Laura Smith.
St. Louis Brass Band Celebrates Second Anniversary — The St. Louis Brass Band marked two years since its founding, having performed 53 concerts, won NABBA's Challenge Section, and made plans to host NABBA's 2004 championships alongside an International Festival of Brass Bands.
Eastern Iowa Brass Band's Grand Celebration Of Brass Bands — The Eastern Iowa Brass Band hosted its sixth annual Grand Celebration Of Brass Bands festival in Cedar Rapids, drawing over 700 attendees and featuring performances by multiple regional bands.
Ron Holz's Salvation Army Brass Bands Book — NABBA board member Ronald W. Holz completed a two-volume history, Brass Bands of the Salvation Army: Their Mission and Music, set for publication by Egon that October.
Utah Premiere Brass Supports Youth Banding — Utah Premiere Brass planned a concert at Brigham Young University's Octubafest and pursued efforts to grow youth brass bands in Utah, plus a possible collaboration with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
This June 2000 issue of The Brass Band Bridge focused on the results and reviews of the NABBA XVIII championships held in Columbus, Ohio, including detailed adjudication reports for the Youth, Exhibition, Challenge, and Reading Band sections. It also covered NABBA President Tom Palmatier's reflections on the organization's future direction, band news including the Commonwealth Brass Band's new residency, Saint Louis Brass Band's change of conductor, and upcoming England tours by several NABBA bands.
In this issue (8)
NABBA XVIII Challenge Section Results — Sunshine Brass won the Challenge Section with a strong performance of Elsa's Procession under conductor Jim Cheyne, narrowly beating NCSU British Brass Band, Brass Band of the Tri-State, and Varsity All-Stars.
President's Podium: NABBA at a Crossroads — NABBA President Tom Palmatier argued that the association must choose between remaining a volunteer-run 'mom and pop' organization or professionalizing with paid staff and international judges, citing rising costs and volunteer strain.
Commonwealth Brass Band Named Artists-in-Residence — The Commonwealth Brass Band, led by Jerome Amend, became an in-residence ensemble at Indiana University Southeast in New Albany, giving concerts at the Paul W. Ogle Cultural and Community Center.
Saint Louis Brass Band Appoints Wilkinson — Malcolm McDuffee resigned as Music Director of the Saint Louis Brass Band, with Dr. Keith M. Wilkinson accepted as new Principal Conductor; the band planned future events including a program with actor Patrick Stewart in 2001.
Jericho Brass Tours England — Jericho Brass made a trip to England, described in colloquial detail in the issue, as part of a wave of NABBA bands touring the UK that summer.
Lexington Brass Band Featured at the Masters — Lexington Brass Band hosted trumpeter Philip Smith and conductor Geoffrey Brand for their season finale 'Trumpetissimo' before touring England, including a performance at the All England Masters.
Illinois Brass Band Prepares UK Tour — The Illinois Brass Band, led by Colin Holman, planned to compete at the Whit Friday contest in Saddleworth and tour multiple English cities, rehearsing with conductor David King.
Copyright Compliance Discussion — Douglas Yeo of the Boston Symphony Orchestra responded to Tom Palmatier's earlier article on copyright law, clarifying requirements for first recordings and compulsory mechanical licenses.
This pre-contest issue of The Brass Band Bridge previewed the NABBA XVIII championships in Columbus, Ohio (April 14-15, 2000), featuring the Gala Concert with The Canadian Brass and a Reading Band session. It also rounded up band news including guest conductor appointments, new bands, media features, and a feature article by Keith Wilkinson on the history and growth of British-style brass bands in America.
In this issue (8)
NABBA XVIII Championships Announced — NABBA's annual championship was scheduled for April 14-15, 2000 at the Riffe Center Theatres, Capitol Theatre and Palace Theatre in Columbus, Ohio, with sections including Exhibition, Youth, Challenge, Honors and Championship, culminating in a Gala Concert featuring The Canadian Brass and a premiere of James Curnow's 'When Time is No More'.
Cuyahoga Valley Brass Band Named Artist-in-Residence — Cuyahoga Valley Brass Band accepted an invitation to become Ensemble-in-Residence at the University of Akron, with plans for a Brass Band Summer Workshop directed by Keith Wilkinson and a concert featuring soloist Steven Mead.
Saint Louis Brass Band Appoints Wilkinson as Guest Conductor — Dr. Keith M. Wilkinson accepted the post of Music Advisor and Principal Guest Conductor for the Saint Louis Brass Band, having impressed during a Gala Concert rehearsal, and would conduct the band at the NABBA Competition.
Cincinnati Brass Band Named Post-Corbett Awards Finalist — The Cincinnati Brass Band was one of five finalists in the arts organization category of Cincinnati's prestigious Post-Corbett Awards, chosen from 47 nominees, and also performed the final concert at the historic Emery Theater before its two-year rehab closure.
Illinois Brass Band Featured on PBS — The Illinois Brass Band was the subject of a short documentary to air on Chicago's PBS station WTTW, and announced plans for a two-week England tour including the Saddleworth Whit Friday competition and a new CD release, 'Shakin' Not Stirred: A Jazz Collection'.
Georgia Brass Band Completes First Season — The Georgia Brass Band, formed in April 1999 in the metro Atlanta area, gave its premiere performance on September 26, 1999, quickly gaining media attention and entering a partnership with Boosey & Hawkes for Sovereign instruments.
Chicago Staff Band Hosts Canadian Staff Band — The Chicago Staff Band of the Salvation Army invited the Canadian Staff Band to join its annual Thanksgiving weekend concert in November 1999, drawing over 2000 attendees, and announced a future joint concert with Eric Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra in October 2000.
Keith Wilkinson on the British Brass Band Invasion of America — In an edited conference talk, Keith Wilkinson traced the history of British brass bands and their growing influence in the U.S., arguing that Ohio had become the center of American brass banding given the strong showing of Ohio bands at NABBA championships.
Joint Concert: Motor City Brass Band and Cuyahoga Valley Brass Band — A joint concert featuring Motor City Brass Band and Cuyahoga Valley Brass Band at Southfield Centre coincided with conductor Keith Wilkinson's birthday, complete with a surprise 'Happy Birthday' arrangement.
Hannaford Street Silver Band to Host Black Dyke Band — The Hannaford Street Silver Band announced it would sponsor a visit by the famed Black Dyke Band in Toronto in February 2000, following the band's trip to the Bermuda Festival.
Salvation Army Euphonium Solo Repertoire Study, Part II — Dr. Joel Pugh continued his DMA dissertation series on the historical development of Salvation Army euphonium solo repertoire with brass band accompaniment, listing works and composers across decades.
The Summer 1999 issue of The Brass Band Bridge covered the NABBA Board's annual meeting outcomes, including plans for the 2000 championships in Columbus, Ohio, a new Las Vegas regional contest, and rule changes. It also reported on member band activities, new band foundings, a death in the brass band community, and reviews of new recordings, alongside tributes to British brass band legend Harry Mortimer following Rex Mortimer's death.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Board Meeting Sets Course for 2000 — New NABBA President Tom Palmatier reported on the Board's annual meeting, detailing plans for NABBA 2000 in Columbus, Ohio, a still-unresolved 2001 contest site, new contest timing rules, and committees for advertising, finance, membership, web services, championship hosting, and endowments.
NABBA Western Regional in Las Vegas — NABBA announced its first Western Regional contest in Las Vegas, Nevada, scheduled for October 29-30, 1999, aiming to grow the association's presence among western member bands.
Remembering Rex and Harry Mortimer — The issue noted the death of Rex Mortimer, coinciding with an article by Bram Gay reflecting on the life and legacy of Harry Mortimer, a towering figure in British brass banding.
New Bands Founded: Fountain Creek and British Brass Band of Central Florida — Paul Curnow and colleagues founded the Fountain Creek Brass Band in Colorado, giving concerts in Manitou Springs, while a new British Brass Band of Central Florida formed in Orlando under conductor Mark Griffin.
Death of Eastern Iowa Brass Band Member Merry Dick — Cornetist Merry Dick of the Eastern Iowa Brass Band died in a car accident near Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in July 1999; she was remembered fondly by bandmates who played at her funeral.
Lexington Brass Band Invited to England — The Lexington Brass Band, led by Ronald Holz, was invited to perform at the Gala Concert of the All England Masters Brass Band Championships in Cambridge in 2000, with a UK tour planned for May-June.
Southerners Brass Band Feature and Concert Series — The Southerners British Brass Band, conducted by Jerome Edwards, was featured with details of multiple concerts held in Naples, Florida, throughout 1998 and 1999.
New CD Releases Reviewed — Ronald W. Holz reviewed several new brass band recordings, including debut albums by the New England Brass Band and Chesapeake Silver Comet Brass Band, along with releases from the Salvation Army's International Staff Band featuring soloists David Daws and Andrew Justice.
Issue 76 (June 1999) of The Brass Band Bridge focused on the NABBA 1999 championships hosted by the Illinois Brass Band in Wheaton, Illinois, featuring reviews, adjudicator reports, and results context from sixteen competing bands. The issue also announced Ron Holz's stepping down as NABBA President after four years, honored past president Tom Myers with a Lifetime Membership, and previewed the upcoming NABBA 2000 championships in Columbus, Ohio, plus band news, concert programs, and CD reviews.
In this issue (8)
NABBA 1999 Championships Hosted by Illinois Brass Band — The Illinois Brass Band hosted the 1999 NABBA championships, with sixteen bands competing across sections including Championship, Adult Technical Solo, Brass Ensemble, and Slow Melody; Brass Band of Columbus and Sheldon Theatre Brass Band were noted for strong Championship Section performances.
Ron Holz Steps Down as NABBA President — After four years as President (and prior service as Vice President and Contest Chair), Ron Holz announced he was stepping down, citing significant growth in NABBA membership, bands, and finances during his tenure.
Tom Myers Honored with Lifetime NABBA Membership — Past President Tom Myers was awarded a Lifetime Membership in NABBA for his outstanding service as board member, officer, and Bridge editor; his daughter, a member of the Central Ohio Brass Band, accepted the honor on his behalf.
NABBA 2000 Championships Announced for Columbus — The next NABBA championships were scheduled for April 14-15, 2000 in Columbus, Ohio, with the All-Star Bands of Columbus serving as hosts, and the NABBA Board set to meet there in August 1999.
Commonwealth Brass Band Celebrates 10th Anniversary — The Commonwealth Brass Band marked its 10th anniversary with a special concert at the University of Louisville featuring solos by four of its five founding members, followed by performances at the Queen's Birthday Garden Party and Bernheim Forest.
Philip Smith Guest Soloist with Intrada Brass — New York Philharmonic principal trumpet Philip Smith performed as guest soloist with Intrada Brass under Bram Gregson, premiering a new brass band transcription of the Arutunian Trumpet Concerto and Bruce Broughton's Excursions for Trumpet and Band.
Dwight Vaught Receives Bush Leadership Fellowship — NABBA Board member Dwight Vaught, a flugelhorn player with the Brass Band of Minot, received a 1999 Bush Leadership Fellowship to pursue a Master's degree in Arts Administration at Eastern Michigan University.
New CD Reviews Featured — The issue reviewed several new brass band recordings, including Eikanger-Bjorsvik Musikklag's 'Best By Farr Volume 2,' the Boulder Brass's Baroque album, Brighouse and Rastrick's 'Hymns and Marches,' and the New York Staff Band's 'On A Hymnsong.'
This pre-contest issue of The Brass Band Bridge previewed NABBA 99 in St. Charles, Illinois, hosted by the Illinois Brass Band, including board meeting agendas, reading band session details, and news that the Illinois Brass Band and Canadian Staff Band were selected to represent NABBA and the Salvation Army respectively at the 1999 Great American Brass Band Festival. It also featured extensive band news from across North America, concert programs, and reviews of new brass band recordings.
In this issue (8)
Illinois Brass Band and Canadian Staff Band selected for GABBF — The Illinois Brass Band, led by Colin Holman, was chosen to represent NABBA at the 1999 Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, KY, while the Canadian Staff Band, led by Brian Burditt, was selected as the Salvation Army representative.
NABBA 99 pre-contest preparations — NABBA announced plans for its spring board meeting, reading band session, and general membership meeting at NABBA 99, hosted by the Illinois Brass Band, and sought proposals for hosting the 2001 and 2002 championships.
New brass band launched: Northern Michigan Brass Band — A new brass band was founded in Gaylord, Michigan, with an inaugural rehearsal led by guest conductor Paul Droste, sponsored by Yamaha and NABBA, aiming toward a future NABBA challenge section appearance.
Spokane British Brass Band leadership change — After three seasons founding and conducting the Spokane British Brass Band, Michael Warner stepped down as Music Director, with Richard Strauch taking over and the band's fourth season dedicated to Warner.
London Citadel Band busy season and Massey Hall performance — The Salvation Army's London Citadel Band, led by John Lam, undertook a packed schedule including Christmas concerts, a performance at Toronto's Massey Hall for the installation of new Salvation Army territorial leaders, and a new recording session planned for early 1999.
New England Brass Band records debut Christmas CD — Music Director Doug Yeo described the New England Brass Band's first recording project, a Christmas CD recorded in Symphony Hall, Boston, reflecting on the joy of amateur music-making.
Multi-band Festival of Brass in Michigan — The Motor City Brass Band, Dearborn Heights Citadel Salvation Army Band, Royal Oak Citadel Salvation Army Band, and Weston Silver Band gathered for a joint Festival of Brass concert under guest conductor Keith Wilkinson.
Buffalo Silver Band celebrates 50th anniversary — The Buffalo Silver Band, led by Pam Liebmann, marked its 50th anniversary in 1999 while continuing its tradition of opening concerts with Curnow's Fanfare for NABBA.
Issue 74 of The Brass Band Bridge (December 1998) featured editor Colin Holman's farewell reflections after three years editing the magazine, alongside President Ron Holz's remarks on preparations for the NABBA 1999 championships in Chicago. The issue included extensive band news from across North America, concert programs, Nick Hudson's brass technique column on breathing and articulation, and CD reviews including the new NABBA 98 Highlights CD.
In this issue (8)
NABBA 1999 Championships Preparations — President Ron Holz outlined plans for the NABBA 1999 contest in Chicago, including an expanded Solo and Ensemble Contest with percussion ensembles, and pledged a fair, well-organized competition with Beth Steele as co-Contest Controller.
Editor Colin Holman's Reflections — Editor Colin Holman reflected on three years of editing the Bridge, noting the magazine had doubled in size due to growing band participation and advertising support.
NABBA Summer Brass Band Camp at International Peace Gardens — The second annual NABBA Summer Brass Band Camp was held at the International Peace Gardens on the US-Canada border, led by guest conductor Paul Droste, resulting in three new brass bands being formed.
Brass Band of Minot Leadership Change — Dwight Vaught stepped down as Board President of the Brass Band of Minot, replaced by Gordon Troxel, with Daniel Hornstein appointed as the new music director.
New Northern Michigan Brass Band Formed — John Aren, founder of the Motor City Brass Band, along with Ralph Schweigert and Gordon Palmer, established the Northern Michigan Brass Band, set to debut under Paul Droste in January 1999.
Brass Band of the Tri-State College Credit Program — The Brass Band of the Tri-State was accredited by three local colleges (University of Kentucky's Ashland Community College, Morehead State University, and Ohio University) allowing students to earn college credit for participation.
Sunshine Brass Band Returns to NABBA Championships — After an eleven-year absence, the Sunshine Brass Band returned to compete at the NABBA Championships in Lexington, finishing eighth of nine bands in the Championship Section.
Commonwealth Brass Band Cannon Finale — The Commonwealth Brass Band performed with the Kentucky Army National Guard firing howitzers during a rendition of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture at a park concert in Jeffersonville.
Issue 72 (June 1998) covered NABBA XVI held at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, hosted by the Lexington Brass Band, where Illinois Brass Band won its third consecutive Championship Division title. The issue featured a tribute to Dr. Paul Droste, reports on four new NABBA bands, extensive concert reviews and recordings, and announcements about upcoming NABBA 99 and 2000 championships.
In this issue (8)
Illinois Brass Band's historic three-peat — The Illinois Brass Band, directed by Colin Holman, became only the second group to win the NABBA Championship Division three times in succession at NABBA XVI.
NABBA XVI Championships at University of Kentucky — NABBA's 1998 championships, the largest in its history with over 700 performers and 20 bands, were hosted by the Lexington Brass Band (Ron Holz and Skip Gray) at the Singletary Center for the Arts.
Tribute to Dr. Paul Droste — NABBA honored Dr. Paul Droste with a Life Time Membership at NABBA XVI, recognizing his years as a two-term president, board member, Yamaha clinician, and founder of the Brass Band of Columbus, and he conducted a piece titled 'The Pioneers' at the gala.
Four new NABBA bands debut — Collegiate All-Stars, Cuyahoga Valley, Prairie, and Tri-State brass bands made their premiere appearances at NABBA XVI, with one winning its category.
Future championships confirmed — NABBA 99 was reconfirmed for the Chicago area hosted by Illinois Brass Band, while NABBA 2000 was granted to Columbus, OH, to be hosted by the All-Star Brass Bands organization.
New York Staff Band celebrates 111 years — The New York Staff Band, led by Ronald Waiksnoris, celebrated its 111th anniversary with an Annual Festival concert featuring the Julliard Trumpets and a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales.
Contest Controller Tim Hollan steps down — Captain Timothy Hollan stepped down as NABBA Contest Controller after three years of service due to heavy U.S. Army assignments, with a new co-controller arrangement planned for NABBA 99.
Woods Manufacturing Brass Band prepares for Halifax Tattoo — Woods Manufacturing Co. Brass Band planned an international appearance at the Halifax International Tattoo 1998 alongside players from the US, Canada, UK, Denmark and Germany, following a busy Christmas concert season.
This March 1998 pre-contest issue of The Brass Band Bridge previewed the upcoming NABBA 98 championships in Lexington, Kentucky, including new membership registration procedures and a Gala Concert combining the Lexington Brass Band with the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra. It also reported on numerous member band activities, new band formations, guest conductors, CD and concert reviews, and the deaths of two band members.
This special fall 1997 issue of The Brass Band Bridge previewed the NABBA XVI Championship to be held April 17-18, 1997 in Lexington, Kentucky, detailing the test pieces for each section and judges. It also covered band news from around North America, a leadership change in the U.S. Army Brass Band, CD reviews, and included an extensive pullout section introducing brass bands to new members.
In this issue (8)
Test Pieces Announced for NABBA XVI Championship — NABBA announced the test pieces for its 1997 Championship in Lexington, Kentucky, including works by Ray Steadman-Allen, Gareth Wood, Kenneth Downie, and Wilfred Heaton, judged by Bram Gay, Raymond Tizzard, and James Hile.
New Exhibition Section Formalized — NABBA formalized a new Exhibition Section allowing qualified or ineligible bands to perform without competing for scores, receiving judge's comments instead.
Passing the Baton in U.S. Army Brass Band — Capt. Timothy J. Holtan passed leadership of The U.S. Army Brass Band to Capt. Beth T. M. Steele, who became its new Director while Holtan became Executive Officer of 'Pershing's Own' and later Director of The U.S. Army Chorus.
Motor City Brass Band Relocation and Leadership Change — The Motor City Brass Band moved to the Southfield Center for the Arts and saw founder John Aren step down as Chairman to start a new band, the Thunder Bay Brass Band, with Michael Schott succeeding him as Chairman.
Commonwealth Brass Band Receives Arts Grant — The Commonwealth Brass Band was awarded a $1,000 grant from the Fund for the Arts in Louisville, Kentucky, to support community concerts and purchase timpani.
New York Staff Band Boston Tour — The New York Staff Band traveled to Boston for a weekend of concerts and workshops, joined by Boston Symphony bass trombonist Doug Yeo for a performance featuring works by Bulla, Pearce, and Gordon.
New Prairie Brass Band Formed — Trombonist Roger Menning founded the new Prairie Brass Band, which began its inaugural season with a Christmas concert in Schaumburg, Illinois.
CD Reviews: European Championships and Doyen Releases — Reviews covered several new Doyen CDs including Cathedral Brass by Black Dyke Band, Cry of the Celts by Yorkshire Building Society Band, Highlights from the European Championships 1997, and Jazz: The Music of Philip Wilby by Williams Fairey Band.
This September 1997 issue of The Brass Band Bridge covered the eighth annual Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, KY, plus member band news from around North America. It also featured coverage of the Triangle Brass Band's first Youth Brass Band Clinic, concert programs from numerous NABBA member bands, and reviews of new recordings including the Brassed Off soundtrack and Canadian Brass Plays Bernstein.
In this issue (8)
Great American Brass Band Festival 1997 — Despite rainy weather reducing attendance from an average 35,000 to about 27,000, a record 22 groups performed at the eighth annual festival in Danville, KY, directed by George Foreman and hosted by the Advocate Brass Band.
Triangle Brass Band Hosts First Youth Brass Band Clinic — Triangle Brass Band held its first Youth Brass Band Clinic in Durham, NC, led by Dr. Jim Hile, inspiring hope for the formation of a youth brass band and encouraging other bands to start similar programs.
NABBA Board Changes and New Bands — NABBA welcomed new board members Elmer Hall, Ken Kroesche, and Dwight Vaught, while thanking outgoing members Paul Droste, Bram Gregson, and Michael Votta; three new bands were also cited: Atlanta Brass Band, Chesapeake Silver Cornets Brass Band, and Old Pueblo Brass Band.
New York Staff Band Celebrates 110 Years — The issue noted the New York Staff Band of the Salvation Army's celebration of 110 years of service.
NABBA XVI Announced for Lexington, Kentucky — NABBA's 1998 championship contest (NABBA XVI) was announced to be held April 17-18 at the Singletary Center for the Arts, University of Kentucky, hosted by the Lexington Brass Band.
Brass Band of the Tri-State Says Farewell to Founding Director — In only its second year, the Brass Band of the Tri-State hosted its second annual Brass Band and Hotdog Festival in Ashland, KY, and bid farewell to founding director Gary Clark.
Nigel Clarke Visits US Marine Band Library — Composer-in-residence for Black Dyke Band, Nigel Clarke, visited the U.S. Marine Band Library in Washington D.C. and met with composer/conductor Stephen Bulla, coinciding with a Marine Band performance of his wind band composition.
New Recordings Reviewed: Brassed Off Soundtrack and Others — Reviews covered the acclaimed Brassed Off film soundtrack featuring Grimethorpe Colliery Band, Canadian Brass Plays Bernstein, Christmas Voices and Brass by Smoky Mountain Brass Band, and other new releases.
Issue 68 (June 1997) of The Brass Band Bridge reported on NABBA XV, held in Red Wing, Minnesota, hosted by the Sheldon Theatre Brass Band and Milt Hovelson, featuring performances by Steven Mead, the U.S. Army Brass Band, and Steve Sykes. The issue also covered band programs, upcoming NABBA XVI plans for Lexington, Kentucky, youth band competitions, and news from member bands including new ensembles and touring groups.
In this issue (8)
NABBA XV Competition in Red Wing — NABBA's 15th championship was held at the Sheldon Theatre in Red Wing, Minnesota, praised by President Ron Holz as a milestone for the association, with three new competing bands (Winona, Northwinds, Minot) and an inaugural Ensemble Contest.
Gala Concert Highlights — The Gala Concert at Red Wing's new high school featured an acclaimed performance by euphonium soloist Steven Mead alongside the U.S. Army Brass Band under Captain Timothy Holian.
NABBA XVI Announced for Lexington — Plans were confirmed for NABBA XVI to take place April 17-18, 1998 in Lexington, Kentucky, with NABBA XVII tentatively set for Chicago in 1999.
North American Brass Band Summer Camp Launched — A new North American Brass Band Summer Camp was announced for July 26-29 at the International Music Camp near Dunseith, ND, organized with help from the Brass Band of Minot.
Doug Yeo's Proclamation CD and Solo Appearances — Boston Symphony bass trombonist Doug Yeo released a new solo album, Proclamation, with the Black Dyke Mills Band, and performed with several brass bands including the New England Brass Band and New York Staff Band.
Cincinnati Brass Band Wins Challenge Division Again — The Cincinnati Brass Band celebrated its second consecutive Challenge Division victory at NABBA and held a benefit concert with guest soloist Keith Wilkinson in memory of a former student, Shane Hayes.
Atlanta Brass Band Inaugural Concert — The newly formed Atlanta Brass Band, drawing on leading Atlanta players, gave a well-attended inaugural concert under Dr. Richard Holz and John H. Head.
Solo and Ensemble Competition Results — NABBA XV solo competition winners included Kevin Baker (Slow Melody) and Anthony Zlincik (Technical Solo), with the Ozark Mountains Brass Sextet winning the Adult Ensemble category.
Issue 67 (March 1997) previewed NABBA Championships XV in Red Wing, Minnesota, featuring adjudicator and guest soloist Steven Mead with the U.S. Army Brass Band, and announced the Brass Band of Columbus as winner of the annual Tape Contest, earning them a slot at the Great American Brass Band Festival. The issue also included detailed contest schedules, band concert programs from across North America, new recording and sheet music reviews, and organizational news from NABBA leadership.
In this issue (8)
Brass Band of Columbus wins NABBA Tape Contest — The Brass Band of Columbus won NABBA's annual Tape Competition, earning the right to represent NABBA at the 1997 Great American Brass Band Festival in Kentucky.
NABBA XV Championships preview in Red Wing, Minnesota — NABBA XV was set for April 18-19, 1997 in Red Wing, Minnesota, hosted by the Sheldon Theatre Brass Band, featuring adjudicators Steven Mead, Keith Wilkinson, and David Werden, plus a new ensemble competition.
U.S. Army Brass Band Gala Concert with Steven Mead — The U.S. Army Brass Band, marking its 75th anniversary as 'Pershing's Own,' performed the NABBA Gala Concert with guest soloist Steven Mead, premiering Philip Sparke's Euphonium Concerto in North America.
Steve Sykes tuba clinic and recital — International tuba soloist and conductor Steve Sykes presented a recital and clinic on the Friday evening of the NABBA XV weekend.
Great American Brass Band Festival lineup announced — The 1997 Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky was set for June 13-15, featuring a ragtime theme and groups including River City Brass Band, Advocate Brass Band, and the NABBA-winning Brass Band of Columbus.
Doug Yeo bass trombone CD announced — Boston Symphony bass trombonist Doug Yeo, a new NABBA member, released a new bass trombone CD and book with the Black Dyke Mills Band conducted by James Watson.
Editor's notes and NABBA outreach — Editor Colin Holman discussed NABBA's growing presence, including representation at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic and the new NABBA publicity brochure and website, alongside membership chair Bert Wiley's response defending North American brass banding's authenticity.
Weston Silver Band and Triangle Brass Band anniversaries — The Weston Silver Band and Triangle Brass Band celebrated significant anniversaries this season, with an article outlining Weston Silver Band's 75-year history.
This special fall issue of The Brass Band Bridge covered the NABBA Board Meeting held in Red Wing, MN, which set policies, selected test pieces, and confirmed Red Wing as the site of the 1997 NABBA Championships. It also featured extensive band news, upcoming tours by British bands, and reports on member bands' activities and anniversaries.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Board Meeting in Red Wing — The NABBA Board met in Red Wing, MN in September 1996 to set policies, select 1997 test pieces, review bylaws and contest rules, and confirm Red Wing as the 1997 championship site.
1997 Test Pieces Selected — NABBA announced test pieces for the 1997 contest sections, including Jimmy Crack Corn, Key West, America Variations, Endeavour, and The New Jerusalem for the Championship Section.
1998 Championship Site Confirmed — NABBA confirmed that the Lexington Brass Band and the University of Kentucky would co-host the NABBA XVI championships in Lexington, KY, in April 1998.
British Bands Planning U.S. Tours — Several British bands, including BNFL Band, Regent Brass, and Desford Colliery Band, announced upcoming 1997 tours of the U.S. with stops in Chicago, Milwaukee, Knoxville, Denver, and Washington State.
Soloists Touring North America — International soloists Steve Sykes, Steven Mead, Roger Webster, David Nesbitt, and Bob Childs were scheduled to tour and perform with various NABBA member bands including Salt River Brass in early 1997.
Motor City Brass Band Debuts — The newly formed Motor City Brass Band, founded in February 1996 by John Aren, earned praise at its first NABBA contest in Columbus and was preparing for its second appearance in Red Wing.
Smoky Mountain Brass Band Growth — Under new director Dr. Ken Kroesche, Smoky Mountain Brass Band completed a second CD featuring euphonium soloist Brian Bowman and received a $10,000 grant for new instruments.
Camp Reynolds Regimental Brass Band Anniversary — Camp Reynolds Regimental Brass Band celebrated its tenth anniversary, having been formed in 1986 to support the Angel Island Association's historical preservation efforts.
Issue 65 (September 1996) of The Brass Band Bridge reported on the seventh annual Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, KY, where Advocate Brass Band, London Citadel Band, and Triangle Brass Band represented NABBA. It also covered the second annual Grand Celebration of Brass Bands in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, various summer band tours and concerts, new NABBA Board elections, and news from member bands across North America.
In this issue (7)
GABBF '96: NABBA Bands Deliver Top Performances — Advocate Brass Band, London Citadel Band of The Salvation Army, and Triangle Brass Band represented NABBA at the seventh annual Great American Brass Band Festival, drawing record crowds over 30,000 despite intense heat.
NABBA Board Election and Governance Updates — NABBA held its first run-off election in history to fill seven Board seats, with Eric Aho, Carl Arends, Thomas Myers, Thomas Raber, Michael Swaffer, Wally Ost, and John Woody elected; the Board planned to meet in Red Wing, MN, site of the 1997 Championships.
Second Annual Grand Celebration of Brass Bands in Cedar Rapids — The Eastern Iowa Brass Band hosted the second annual Grand Celebration of Brass Bands at Ushers Ferry Historic Village, featuring the Illinois Brass Band, Scioto Valley Brass and Percussion, and the Eastern Iowa Youth Band, coinciding with EIBB's 10th anniversary.
RAF St. Athan Voluntary Band Tours the US — The Royal Air Force St. Athan Voluntary Band of Wales toured the United States, culminating in a joint concert with the Dominion Brass Band in Williamsburg, VA.
Eastern Iowa Brass Band Plays for Olympic Torch Relay — The Eastern Iowa Brass Band performed for crowds estimated at 60,000 as part of the Olympic Torch Relay passing through Iowa, marking one of its largest single audiences.
Triangle Brass Band Commissions New Work for 10th Anniversary — Triangle Brass Band commissioned a new piece, 'Brass Ablaze,' from Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Robert Ward, to premiere at their 10th anniversary gala concert in Durham, NC.
SASF Brass Band and Southern Territorial Band Tour Britain and Bermuda — Asbury College's SASF Brass Band toured Bermuda for Salvation Army centennial celebrations, while the USA Southern Territorial Band toured Great Britain including a guest appearance at Royal Albert Hall.
This June 1996 issue of The Brass Band Bridge, marking Colin W. Holman's debut as editor, reported on NABBA XIV, held April 12-13, 1996 at Dublin Coffman High School near Columbus, Ohio, which drew a record eighteen bands and doubled solo competition entries. The issue also announced NABBA's first-ever dues increase, profiled new bands and international visitors, and included extensive concert program listings from member bands across North America.
In this issue (8)
Illinois Brass Band claims Championship Section at NABBA XIV — The Illinois Brass Band, conducted by Colin Holman, won the Championship Section at NABBA XIV after only four years of competing, with a record eighteen bands competing at Dublin Coffman High School in Columbus, Ohio.
Division winners announced at NABBA XIV — Alongside the Championship win by Illinois Brass Band, the newly formed Dominion Brass Band won the Honors Division, Woods Manufacturing Brass Band of Ottawa won the Open Division, and Cincinnati Brass Band won the Challenge Section, both in their first attempts.
Colin Holman becomes new editor of The Brass Band Bridge — Colin W. Holman took over as editor of The Brass Band Bridge from Ron Holz, who remained as NABBA President and continued reviewing for the magazine.
NABBA raises dues for the first time in its history — The NABBA Board of Directors voted to increase membership dues effective July 1, 1996, the first increase since the association's founding fourteen years earlier, citing rising publication and event costs.
Baritone soloist Steven Booth tours North America — British baritone soloist Steven Booth toured the USA and Canada, performing with the Woods Manufacturing Brass Band in Ottawa and the Syracuse University Brass Ensemble, and gained an invitation to the Nova Scotia International Tattoo in Halifax.
New bands emerge: Brass Band of the Tri-State and Motor City Brass Band — The Brass Band of the Tri-State, founded by Jackson M. Hill and John Hylton, gave its first concert in February 1996, while the Motor City Brass Band, founded by John Aren and conducted by Craig Strain, held its first rehearsal that same year in Detroit.
Eastern Iowa Brass Band celebrates tenth anniversary — The Eastern Iowa Brass Band, led by John de Salme, marked its tenth anniversary coinciding with Iowa's Sesquicentennial, having hosted the NABBA competition in 1991 and performing during the Olympic Torch relay through Iowa City and Cedar Rapids.
NABBA Solo Competition doubles in size — The NABBA Solo Competition, now in its second year, saw entries double to over one hundred, divided into Youth, Adult Slow Melody, and Adult Technical sections, with Adam Wilson and Diana Herak winning their respective sections.
Issue 63 (March 1996) previewed NABBA Championships XIV in Columbus, Ohio, featuring a record 19 bands and 33 soloists, plus a Gala Concert with the Southern Territorial Brass Band of the Salvation Army. The issue also announced editorial leadership changes at The Brass Band Bridge, reported the death of brass legend Philip Catelinet, and included band news, concert programs, and upcoming events like the Northeastern Brass Band Championships and a Summer Brass Band Camp.
In this issue (8)
Record Number of Bands at NABBA Championships XIV — Nineteen bands and 33 soloists entered the 1996 NABBA Championships in Columbus, Ohio, setting a new record and reflecting the organization's growth.
Southern Territorial Band Featured at Gala Concert — The Salvation Army's USA Southern Territorial Band, led by Richard Holz, headlined the Gala Concert with new works by Stephen Bulla ahead of a tour of Great Britain.
Editorial Transition: Holz Passes Bridge to Holman — After nearly four years as editor, Ronald W. Holz handed over editorship of The Brass Band Bridge to Colin Holman, conductor of the Illinois Brass Band, with support from George Foster.
Death of Philip Catelinet — Renowned brass musician and composer Philip Bramwell Catelinet, for whom Vaughan Williams wrote his Tuba Concerto, died; he had a distinguished career in British orchestras and at Carnegie Mellon University.
New NABBA Member Bands Announced — Motor City Brass Band and Illinois Heartland Brass Band joined NABBA, along with two newly formed bands: Brassworks Centennial Band and Capitol City Brass Band.
Weston Silver Band Celebrates 75th Anniversary — Weston Silver Band, founded by George Sainsbury, marked its 75th anniversary with a reunion and concert under current director Ron Clayson.
Northeastern Brass Band Championships at West Point — The 3rd Annual Northeastern Brass Band Championships were scheduled for June 8, 1996 at West Point, featuring the New York Staff Band.
North American Summer Brass Band Camp Announced — A new summer brass band camp led by Roy Newsome and staff tutors was scheduled for July 1996 at Western Carolina University, coinciding with a visit from the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.
Issue 62 (December 1995) of The Brass Band Bridge led with a detailed review of the Brass Band of Columbus's acclaimed performance at the Mid-West International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, featuring guest conductors James Curnow, Ronald Holz, and Philip Sparke. The issue also previewed the 1996 NABBA Championships in Columbus, Ohio, announced NABBA's representatives for the Great American Brass Band Festival, reported new member bands joining NABBA, and covered various brass band concerts and news items including a cancelled US Army Band tour and George Foster's report from the British Open in Manchester.
In this issue (8)
Brass Band of Columbus performs at Mid-West Clinic — The Brass Band of Columbus, under Paul Droste with guest conductors James Curnow, Ronald Holz, and Philip Sparke, gave an acclaimed 75-minute concert at the Mid-West International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, featuring works by Sousa, Curnow, Cichy, Sparke, Leidzen/Bach, and Rimsky-Korsakov/Bowen.
1996 NABBA Championships announced for Columbus — NABBA Championships XIV was scheduled for April 12-13, 1996 in Columbus, Ohio, hosted by the Brass Band of Columbus, with a gala concert featuring the Southern Territorial Brass Band of the Salvation Army under Richard Holz.
Triangle Brass Band and London Citadel chosen for Great American Festival — Triangle Brass Band of Raleigh-Durham, NC, and London Citadel Band of Ontario were selected to represent NABBA at the 1996 Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, KY, with London Citadel's new bandmaster Jon Lamm succeeding the retiring Bram Gregson.
NABBA membership grows to 54 bands — President Ronald Holz reported NABBA's growth from 40 member bands in 1994 to 54 in 1995, highlighting the organization's increasing national and international recognition.
New and renewing NABBA member bands announced — Several bands joined or renewed NABBA membership, including Bainbridge Brass Band, Brass Band of Minot, Intrada Brass, Lake Wobegon Brass Band, London Citadel Band, Ohio State Marching Band, and Southwestern Community Brass Band; the not-yet-official Ozark Mountains Brass Band also held its premiere concert.
US Army Brass Band tour cancelled due to budget dispute — A joint concert between The US Army Brass Band of Washington DC and The Dominion Brass Band of Tidewater, Virginia, was cancelled at the last minute due to a congressional budget dispute, but Dominion Brass performed solo to a full, appreciative house.
George Foster reports on the British Open in Manchester — George Foster of the Illinois Brass Band attended the 1995 British Open brass band championship at Manchester's Free Trade Hall, the last time the event was held there before moving to Bridgewater Hall, with Philip Wilby's 'Revelation' as the test piece.
Editor Ronald Holz to be succeeded by Colin Holman — Ronald Holz announced his upcoming retirement as editor of The Bridge after the next issue, with Colin Holman, director of the Illinois Brass Band, set to take over as editor.
NABBA announced the test pieces for its 1996 Championships in Columbus, Ohio, including Trittico (James Curnow) for Championship Section, Diversions on a Bass Theme (George Lloyd) for Honors Section, Chorale and Toccata (Stephen Bulla) for Challenge and Open Sections, and Music for Kaatskan (Kenneth Downie) for the Youth Section, alongside an expanded Solo Competition with new categories.
Issue 60 (June 1995) reported on the NABBA '95 Championships held in Toronto, hosted by Weston Silver Band, where the Brass Band of Columbus won the Championship Section and Eastern Iowa topped the Honors Section with the highest overall points. The issue also covered NABBA's first Solo Competition, gala concerts featuring the Canadian Staff Band with Alain Trudel and the London Citadel Band with Russell Gray, plus reports from editor Ronald Holz's UK trip including the All England Masters Championship and International Brassfest at Indiana University, along with various band news items.
In this issue (8)
NABBA '95 Championships in Toronto — A record 15 bands and 15 soloists competed at NABBA '95 in Toronto, with the Brass Band of Columbus winning the Championship Section, Eastern Iowa topping the Honors Section with the highest points overall, Buffalo Silver winning the Challenge Section, Woods Manufacturing winning the Open Section, and JV All-Stars winning the Youth Section.
First NABBA Solo Competition — NABBA held its first standalone soloist competition in Toronto, judged by Stephen Bulla, with Julie Vish of Ohio Collegiate winning and John Aren of Illinois receiving honorable mention among fifteen entrants.
Gala Concert: Canadian Staff Band with Alain Trudel — The Canadian Staff Band of The Salvation Army, led by Brian Burditt, performed a Saturday gala concert with guest trombone soloist Alain Trudel, closing with Eric Ball's Resurgam and Heaton's Praise.
London Citadel Band Recital with Russell Gray — The London Citadel Band under Bandmaster Bram Gregson presented a historical recital of Salvation Army brass music spanning the 1920s-1990s, featuring a surprise guest appearance by cornet soloist Russell Gray of BNFL Band.
Russell Gray's Reflections on NABBA '95 — Guest soloist Russell Gray of BNFL wrote about his impressions of NABBA '95, contrasting the collegial American brass band culture with the more competitive English contest tradition.
International Brassfest at Indiana University — The International Brassfest at Indiana University Bloomington featured performances by three top brass bands—Goteborg Brass Band of Sweden, Brass Band of Battle Creek, and Brass Band of Columbus—before an audience of about 2000.
All England Masters Brass Band Championship Report — Editor Ronald Holz reported on the 1995 All England Masters Championship, where Britannia (Howard Snell) won performing Philip Wilby's Paganini Variations, alongside a concert by BNFL, the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, and percussionist Simone Rebello.
Band News Roundup — Various NABBA band updates included Frank Hammond stepping down at NCSU British Brass Band, Alan Fernie's residency and premiere of American Variations with Smoky Mountain Brass Band, Patrick Burns appointed new director of Imperial Brass Band, and news of the National Band of New Zealand's upcoming US tour.
Issue 59 (March 1995) previewed the NABBA Championships XIII in Toronto, listing fifteen competing bands and soloists across Youth, Open, Challenge, Honors, and Championship sections, plus a Gala Concert by the Canadian Staff Band. It also covered the successful first Lexington Brass Band Festival, upcoming Great American Brass Band Festivals, new book reviews on brass band literature, band news from across North America, and notices of touring British bands.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Championships XIII in Toronto — Fifteen bands and fifteen soloists registered for the 1995 NABBA contest held at The Salvation Army Toronto Temple, Bramwell Booth Auditorium, featuring Youth, Open, Challenge, Honors, and Championship sections plus a Gala Concert by the Canadian Staff Band.
First Lexington Brass Band Festival Hailed a Success — The inaugural regional NABBA-sponsored festival in Lexington, Kentucky drew five bands and over 150 brass players for a weekend of concerts, clinics, and massed band performances at the University of Kentucky.
In Memoriam: Debbie Gray — NABBA members mourned the death of Debbie Gray, wife of NABBA Board Member and Toronto contest host coordinator Bob Gray.
Great American Brass Band Festivals Announced — Two festivals were planned for summer 1995: the original event in Danville, Kentucky and a shortened version in Battle Creek, Michigan, featuring bands like the Brass Band of Battle Creek, New York Staff Band, and Weston Silver Band.
Annotated Bibliography of Brass Band Literature — Editor Ronald Holz reviewed nearly twenty recent books on brass bands and the Salvation Army band tradition, including works by Cyril Bainbridge, Brindley Boon, Trevor Herbert, and Arthur Taylor.
Dominion Brass Band Founded in Virginia — A new brass band, the Dominion Brass Band, was created as a joint effort of Old Dominion University and the U.S. Continental Army Band in Fort Monroe, Virginia, under Captain Thomas H. Palmatier.
UK Brass Visitors Announced: Alan Fernie and Young Ambassadors — British brass arranger Alan Fernie planned an April visit to Western Carolina University, while the Young Ambassadors Brass Band of Great Britain announced a North American tour in August 1995, and the UK National Youth Brass Band planned a 1996 US visit.
Commonwealth Brass Band Names New Associate Conductor — Commonwealth Brass Band appointed John R. Jones as associate conductor alongside music director J. Jerome Amend, continuing the band's activities including a Christmas concert.
Issue 58 (December 1994) reported that Weston Silver Band and Illinois Brass Band were selected via tape contest to represent NABBA at the 1995 Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky. The issue also announced plans for the 1995 NABBA Championships in Toronto, honored three deceased NABBA-connected individuals, and included band news, a historical listing of British Open and National Championship test pieces, and reports on member bands' concerts and recordings.
In this issue (8)
Weston Silver Band Selected for GABBF 1995 — Weston Silver Band, conducted by Ron Clayson, won the NABBA tape contest and was selected to represent NABBA at the Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky, June 17-18, 1995.
Illinois Brass Band Chosen for Second Festival — Illinois Brass Band, led by Colin Holman, was selected to represent NABBA at a second tentative GABBF event in Battle Creek, Michigan.
NABBA Championships XIII Announced for Toronto — The 1995 NABBA Championships were scheduled for April 21-22 in Toronto, Canada, hosted by the Weston Silver Band, with a gala concert by The Canadian Staff Band at Massey Hall.
In Memoriam: Three NABBA Losses — NABBA mourned the deaths of Nellie Wiley (wife of NABBA Secretary Bert Wiley), Wendy Himes (wife of Salvation Army Bandmaster William Himes), and Robert Bernat, founder and director of the River City Brass Band.
Contest Test Pieces: A Historical Overview — J. Jerome Amend of the Commonwealth Brass Band compiled an extensive listing of British Open (Belle Vue) and National (London) Championship test pieces dating back to 1853, intended as a resource for NABBA bands.
Allegheny Brass Band Tours Bermuda — The Allegheny Brass Band performed a four-concert 'Ports of Call' series in Bermuda in July 1994, culminating in a large concert in Hamilton's Victoria Park, and released a new CD and promotional brochure.
New Bands Formed and Band Activities Reported — New brass bands were formed in Spokane, WA and Hayward, CA; the Atlanta Repertoire Brass Band was newly established under Richard E. Holz; and various NABBA member bands including Commonwealth Brass Band, Eastern Iowa Brass Band, Triangle Brass Band, Salt River Brass Band, and River City Brass Band reported on concerts and recordings.
River City Brass Band to Join Cincinnati Symphony Pops Series — The River City Brass Band was scheduled to perform three concerts on the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's Pops Series in February 1995, substituting for the CSO while it toured Europe.
Issue 57 of The Brass Band Bridge (August 1994) reported on the Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky, where USABB, Chicago Staff Band, and Sheldon Theatre gave standout performances, marking Captain Thomas Palmatier's farewell to the USABB before his move to command the U.S. Continental Army Band. The issue also featured an extensive interview with Geoffrey Brand detailing the history and his revised edition of Elgar's The Severn Suite, plus coverage of NABBA's 1994 Championships in Raleigh and The Salvation Army's International Brass Spectacular in Toronto.
In this issue (6)
Great American Brass Band Festival 1994 — The Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky featured USABB, Chicago Staff Band, and Sheldon Theatre performing to crowds estimated at 15,000-30,000, with performances broadcast on PBS.
Palmatier Departs USABB for New Command — Captain Thomas Palmatier announced his move from The U.S. Army Band (USABB) and Herald Trumpets to command The U.S. Continental Army Band at Fort Monroe, Virginia, with Captain Timothy J. Holtan named his successor as USABB Director.
Geoffrey Brand on Elgar's The Severn Suite — Geoffrey Brand recounted the history of Elgar's 1930 brass band masterpiece The Severn Suite and detailed his own revised edition, created after discovering Elgar's handwritten corrections and an original higher key version in a Margate loft archive at R. Smith & Company.
NABBA Championships 1994 and Toronto 1995 Announcement — NABBA President Thomas Myers reflected on the 1994 Championships hosted by North Carolina State University British Brass Band and the Triangle Brass Band, and announced the 1995 Championships would be held in Toronto, hosted by the Weston Silver Band.
Salvation Army International Brass Spectacular — Four Salvation Army staff bands and all eight staff bandmasters gathered for a historic joint concert at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto, drawing an international audience and selling over 5000 tickets across two performances.
USABB Farewell Performance Featured Helicopters, Herald Trumpets — The U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter flyover and a joint 40-musician finale titled 'The Second Dawning' by SFC James Horsay marked the emotional close of Palmatier's six-year USABB tenure at the Festival.
Issue 56 (May 1994) of The Brass Band Bridge reported on NABBA's 1994 Championships held at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, where Australia's Hawthorn City Band became the first outside band to compete and won the Championship Section. The issue also profiled composer Stephen Bulla, detailed contest results across sections, adjudicator commentary, and listed recent brass band concerts and upcoming events.
In this issue (8)
Hawthorn City Band wins NABBA '94 Championship Section — Australia's Hawthorn City Band, conducted by Ken McDonald, won the Championship Section at NABBA 1994 in Raleigh, NC, defeating Ohio Collegiate Brass and the Brass Band of Columbus, marking the first time an outside (non-North American) band competed in and won the championships.
Illinois Brass Band wins Honors Section — Illinois Brass Band, directed by Colin Holman, won the Honors Section at NABBA '94, with Eastern Iowa Brass Band placing second.
Stephen Bulla profiled as leading brass band composer — The issue featured an extensive profile of composer/arranger Stephen Bulla, staff arranger for the U.S. Marine Band, detailing his career, works such as Chorale and Toccata and Widdicombe Fair, and his ties to NABBA as a Board member.
Adjudicators reflect on contest standards — Judges James Curnow, Bram Gregson, and Frank Renton offered detailed commentary on the rising quality of North American brass bands, praising the closing gap between Honors and Championship sections.
Eastern Iowa Brass Band wins NABBA Video Contest again — Eastern Iowa Brass Band, led by John de Salme, won the NABBA Video Contest for another year, narrowly beating Wenatchee British Brass Band led by Duane Mikow.
NABBA Championships XIII announced for Toronto — The 1995 NABBA Championships were announced to be held in Toronto, Canada, hosted by the Weston Silver Band.
Gala Concert by Hawthorn City Band — Following their championship win, Hawthorn City Band performed an extended gala concert featuring works by Curnow, Lloyd, and Bourgeois, with soloists Wendy Steele and Jason Mears.
Brass Band of Battle Creek concert with Frank Renton — The Brass Band of Battle Creek, led by Kenneth Bloomquist, performed a concert featuring guest conductor Frank Renton, with soloists Michael Udow and Patrick Sheridan.
This issue of The Brass Band Bridge featured an extensive profile of Salvation Army composer William Himes, previewed the schedule and adjudication team for the NABBA '94 Championships in Raleigh, NC, and reported on the Sheldon Theatre Brass Band winning NABBA's tape contest for the Great American Brass Band Festival. It also announced nine new member bands and covered recent concerts including the Brass Band of Columbus's historic brass-accompanied performance of Handel's Messiah.
In this issue (7)
Composer William Himes Feature — A detailed profile of Salvation Army composer and Chicago Staff Band conductor William Himes explored his musical training, influences, and major brass band works including Aspects of Praise and Confluence.
NABBA '94 Championships Schedule Announced — Thirteen bands committed to compete at NABBA's 1994 Championships at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, including the Youth, Honors, and Championship sections, with Hawthorn City Band from Australia headlining a gala concert.
Adjudication Team for NABBA '94 — The 1994 Championships judging panel featured Frank Renton and Bram Gregson from Britain/Canada along with James Curnow from the US, all also leading the Friday night NABBA Reading Band session.
Sheldon Theatre Wins GABB Tape Contest — The Sheldon Theatre Brass Band was selected to represent NABBA at The Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky, with Triangle Brass Band named runner-up among five competing bands.
Nine New Brass Bands Join NABBA — Nine new brass bands registered with NABBA, including Beehive Brass Band, Faragut Brass Band, Heidelberg Brass Band, and others across the US and Canada, reflecting continued growth of the movement.
Brass Band of Columbus Performs Historic Messiah — The Brass Band of Columbus combined with five local church choirs to perform Handel's Messiah with brass band accompaniment (arranged by Denis Wright), possibly the first such performance in the United States, raising over $1400 for Children's Hospital.
Philip Smith Guest Soloist with Lexington Brass Band — New York Philharmonic principal trumpet Philip Smith performed to a standing-room-only crowd with the Lexington Brass Band at the University of Kentucky and gave master classes during his residency.
Issue 54 (November 1993) of The Brass Band Bridge featured a major profile of American brass band composer James Curnow, including analysis of his works and two new CD releases of his music. The issue also announced NABBA rule changes reinstating single required test pieces and closed (blind) judging for the Championships, reported new bands forming across North America, and previewed the 1994 Championships in Raleigh, NC alongside numerous concert and recording reviews.
In this issue (8)
Profile of Composer James Curnow — The Bridge published an extensive biographical and analytical profile of Salvation Army-trained composer James Curnow, tracing his musical training, influences, and rise to prominence in both wind band and brass band composition.
NABBA Reinstates Closed Judging and Single Test Pieces — At the August Board meeting, NABBA reinstated the requirement of a single required test piece per section and readopted closed (blind) judging for the Championships in response to member concerns about fairness.
New NABBA President Installed — Thomas A. Myers became the new NABBA president, succeeding Don Kneeburg, Paul Droste, and Perry Watson, and outlined plans for growing brass bands across North America including a new Canadian championship site.
Black Dyke Mills Band Carnegie Hall Concert — Black Dyke Mills Band performed a highly successful concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City with guest soloist Philip Smith, introducing many audience members to brass band music for the first time.
New Brass Bands Forming — New brass bands were reported starting in Springfield IL, Eau Claire WI, and Frederick MD, with John Slezak launching an adult brass group in Frederick.
1994 NABBA Championships Preview — The 1994 NABBA Championships were set for April 22-23 in Raleigh, North Carolina, hosted by NCSU, with test pieces including Curnow's Laude for the Honors section and Vaughan Williams' Variations for the Championship section.
Tragic Death of Young Bass Player — Andy Duggan, a 16-year-old B-flat bass player from Moses Lake High School who had anticipated joining Wenatchee British Brass, was killed in a car accident on his way to a concert.
British Nuclear Fuels Band US Tour Announced — The British Nuclear Fuels Band announced a July 1994 US tour with stops planned in Seattle, Denver, Pittsburgh, Washington DC, Wilmington, and New York City, seeking concert promoters.
This issue of The Brass Band Bridge (August 1993) reported extensively on the Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky, featuring British-style brass bands and historic ensembles. It also included NABBA organizational news such as new board members, new bands joining, President Don Kneeburg's farewell address, plus features on percussion technique and new brass band music reviews.
In this issue (8)
Great American Brass Band Festival 1993 — The festival in Danville, Kentucky drew large crowds to see British-style brass bands like River City Brass Band, Brass Band of Columbus, and The Atlanta Temple Band alongside historic and jazz brass ensembles, with founder Dr. George Foreman praised for elevating the event's national profile.
Don Kneeburg's Farewell as NABBA President — Outgoing NABBA President Don Kneeburg reflected on the association's growth since 1983 and thanked the board, including Ron Holz and Bert Wiley, as new officers were set to be elected at the August board meeting in Raleigh, NC.
New NABBA Board Members Announced — Seven new board members joined NABBA, including Kenneth Bloomquist, Stephen Bulla, Frank Hammond, Bob Cray, Barry Hartman, Brian Sheehan, and Mike Swaffar, alongside returning members Don Stein and Milt Hovelson.
New Bands Join NABBA — Several new bands were welcomed into NABBA, including Concert Brass of Belleville (Ontario), Farragut Brass (Washington), University of Virginia Brass Band, and West Royalty Brass (Prince Edward Island), with rumors of a forming band at Old Dominion University.
Smoky Mountain Brass Band Drops 'British' from Name — After more than ten years as the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band, the group renamed itself the Smoky Mountain Brass Band to better reflect its American identity while retaining British-style instrumentation.
Mississippi River Brass Band Divided by Flooding — Severe Midwest flooding split the Mississippi River Brass Band's membership between Missouri and Illinois, forcing cancellation of rehearsals and a planned July concert with The Salvation Army.
Brass Band of Columbus Summer Activities — The Brass Band of Columbus performed at the International Trumpet Guild Conference with soloists Phil Mccann and Brian Bowman, and later recorded sessions for a new CD release planned for 1994.
Snare Drum and Percussion Techniques Feature — Percussion columnist Tom Myers detailed his search for the ideal snare drum sound for brass bands, including testing various heads, snares, and tuning techniques, with additional notes from percussionists James Moore and Larry Snider.
Issue 52 (May 1993) of The Brass Band Bridge reported on NABBA Championships XI, held at Fort Myer, Washington D.C., hosted by the U.S. Army Band, where the Brass Band of Columbus again claimed the Championship Section title. The issue also covered the Gala Concert featuring the U.S. Army Brass Band with guest soloists Bob and Nick Childs and Philip Mccann, a two-part interview with composer Philip Sparke, NABBA's Video Contest results, and organizational news including plans for NABBA XII in Raleigh, NC in 1994.
In this issue (8)
Columbus Captures NABBA XI Championship — The Brass Band of Columbus, led by Paul Droste, won the Championship Section for another consecutive year at NABBA XI held at Fort Myer, Virginia, hosted by the U.S. Army Band.
Section Results at NABBA XI — Sheldon Theatre Brass Band won the Honors Section, Varsity All Stars won Challenge Section, and Junior-Varsity All Stars won the Youth Section, with soloist awards given to James Frank, John Fisher, Amy Baker, and Tamara Mccloughlin.
Eastern Iowa Wins Video Contest Again — Eastern Iowa Brass Band, led by John de Salme, won the NABBA Video Contest for the second consecutive year, followed by Salt River Brass and first-time entrant Wenatchee British Brass Band.
Gala Concert with U.S. Army Brass Band and British Guest Soloists — The Gala Concert at George Mason University featured the U.S. Army Brass Band under Captain Thomas Palmatier with guest soloists Bob and Nick Childs and Philip Mccann, including premieres of works by James Hosay and William Himes.
Philip Sparke Interview, Part II — Composer Philip Sparke discussed his compositional process, works like Celtic Suite and Year of the Dragon, and his role as a producer at Studio Music/Polyphonic in an interview with Bob Bernet, Paul Droste, and Tom Myers.
NABBA Joins NABDCC — Paul Droste represented NABBA for the first time at the North American Band Director's Coordinating Council annual meeting in Chicago, raising awareness of the brass band movement among other band organizations.
NABBA XI Post Mortem by Captain Palmatier — Captain Thomas Palmatier thanked his staff and the U.S. Army Band organization for their work hosting NABBA XI and offered advice for future host bands ahead of NABBA XII in Raleigh and NABBA XIII in Toronto.
Plans Announced for NABBA XII in Raleigh — NABBA announced its next championship event for April 22-23, 1994 in Raleigh, North Carolina, hosted by NCSU under Frank Hammond, with possible participation from an Australian band and top British and Dutch bands.
Issue 51 (February 1993) previewed NABBA's Championships XI in Washington, D.C., hosted by The US Army Brass Band, including detailed schedules, adjudicators, and guest artists Philip Sparke and Philip McCann. It also featured the first half of an extensive interview with composer Philip Sparke, announced The Brass Band of Columbus as NABBA's representative at the Great American Brass Band Festival, and covered The Salvation Army's Hendon Corps Band tour of the U.S. South.
In this issue (7)
NABBA Championships XI Scheduled for Washington, DC — NABBA announced a detailed tentative schedule for its 1993 Championships hosted by The US Army Brass Band, featuring judges Bloomquist, Bulla, and Sparke, plus a gala concert with guest soloists Bob and Nick Childs and Philip McCann.
Conversation with Philip Sparke — The first half of an extensive interview with composer Philip Sparke, conducted by Bob Bernat, Paul Droste, and Tom Myers, explored his compositional style, influences (Ravel, Copland, Stravinsky), and career at Studio Music.
Brass Band of Columbus Chosen for GABB Festival — The Brass Band of Columbus, led by Paul Droste, was selected to represent NABBA at The Great American Brass Band Festival in June 1993 after placing first among seven bands in a tape competition.
Hendon Corps Band Tours U.S. South — The Salvation Army's Hendon Corps Band of London, led by bandmaster Stephen Cobb, embarked on a tour of the Southern United States, continuing over 70 years of Cobb family leadership at Hendon.
Great American Brass Band Festival Lineup Announced — The GABB Festival lineup for June 1993 in Danville, KY included The River City Brass Band, The Dallas Brass, The Olympia Brass Band, and other groups, alongside a Band History Conference on the American March.
NABBA Video Contest and Membership Growth — President Don Kneeburg discussed the NABBA Video Contest as an alternative competition format for distant bands, and urged members to help grow NABBA's membership base.
Brass Band Music Review — Dr. Paul Droste reviewed three new Rosehill Music publications: 'Amigos Para Siempre' arranged by Peter Graham, 'Embraceable You' arranged by Elgar Howarth, and 'Fantasy for Trombone' by James Curnow.
This double issue (49/50, Aug/Nov 1992) announced final plans for NABBA Championship XI, to be held April 2-3, 1993 at Fort Myer and George Mason University in Washington, DC, including adjudicators, guest artists, and a wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery. It also marked the editorial handover of The Brass Band Bridge from Tom Myers to Ron Holz, reported on new brass bands formed via Yamaha/NABBA summer workshops, and included concert reports, an interview with composer Steve Bulla, and recording/music reviews.
In this issue (8)
Championship XI Set for Washington, DC — NABBA's Championship XI was scheduled for April 2-3, 1993 at Fort Myer and George Mason University, hosted by The United States Army Band, featuring adjudicators Bob and Nick Childs, Phil McCann, Steve Bulla, Philip Sparke, and Kenneth Bloomquist, plus a Gala Concert and wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery.
Editorship of The Bridge Passes to Ron Holz — Tom Myers stepped down as editor of The Brass Band Bridge after building up its scope and content, handing the role to Ron Holz, NABBA's Vice President and Contest Committee Chairman.
Yamaha/NABBA Summer Workshops Spawn New Bands — Paul Droste led the seventh year of Yamaha-sponsored NABBA brass band workshops across the US (Syracuse, Cincinnati, Anoka, Branson, Gettysburg, Dowagiac), helping form several new brass bands and adding nearly 150 new NABBA memberships.
New Brass Bands Welcomed to NABBA — NABBA welcomed several newly formed bands including the Utah Valley Youth Brass Band, Queen City Brass, Northwestern Brass Band, Ohio Valley British Brass, Lake Wobegon Brass Band, Branson Brass Band, and The Lexington Brass Band, many arising from Yamaha workshops.
Smokey Mountain British Brass Band Gets New Conductor — Dr. John West, Director of Bands at Western Carolina University, was appointed as new conductor of the Smokey Mountain British Brass Band, succeeding founder Richard Trevarthen after more than ten years.
Interview with Composer Steve Bulla on Mutes in Brass Bands — Staff Sergeant Paul Klontz interviewed U.S. Marine Band arranger Steve Bulla about his compositional use of mutes, his work 'Firestorm' (inspired by the Persian Gulf War and selected as the European Brass Band Championship test-piece), and his role as an adjudicator at NABBA Championship XI.
US Army Brass Band Marks 12th Season — The U.S. Army Brass Band opened its 12th season with a full house at Brucker Hall, unveiling a newly renovated studio ahead of NABBA Championship XI, performing works including Bulla's 'Rhapsody for Bass Trombone'.
Concert Reports from Member Bands — Multiple NABBA member bands reported concerts, including the Gramercy Brass Band's Thanksgiving concert in Manhattan, the Brass Band of Columbus saluting Ohio State's Marching Band, the Illinois Brass Band's November concert, and the premiere concert of the new Lexington Brass Band.
Issue 48 (May 1992) of The Brass Band Bridge covered NABBA's tenth annual Championships held in Columbus, Ohio, featuring open judging for the first time and performances by eight competing bands plus guest groups. The issue also reported on the Gala Concert with the Salvation Army's Chicago Staff Band and the Brass Band of Columbus, new community brass band initiatives, and various band news items from across North America.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Championships X in Columbus — The tenth annual NABBA Championships were held at Dublin High School near Columbus, Ohio, introducing open judging for the first time with judges Geoffrey Brand, Gordon McGowan, and Captain Thomas Palmatier; Ohio Collegiate Brass, Triangle British Brass Band, and Commonwealth Brass Band took top honors in the Championship Section.
NABBA Gala Concert: God and Country Festival of Music — The Brass Band of Columbus and the Salvation Army's Chicago Staff Band performed together at the Palace Theater in Columbus, marking the first appearance of a Salvation Army Staff Band at the NABBA gala, with Geoffrey Brand leading a rendition of 'Journey Into Freedom'.
Friday Night Clinic Sessions — NABBA members participated in reading sessions and clinics led by Geoffrey Brand and Bill Himes focusing on brass band balance and blend, followed by a joint rehearsal between the Brass Band of Columbus and Chicago Staff Band.
Starting a Community College Brass Band — NABBA Director Beth Hronek recounted founding the Bend in the River Brass Band at Henderson Community College in Kentucky, recruiting players from the Henderson, Owensboro, and Evansville area to form a new community ensemble.
Brass Band of Columbus at TUBA Conference — The Brass Band of Columbus performed at the 1992 International Tuba Euphonium Conference at the University of Kentucky, featuring soloists from the U.S. Air Force Band and U.S. Army Band.
Sunshine Brass Band Revives in Florida — After a three-year hiatus, Florida's Sunshine Brass Band reorganized under founder Don Kniceburg with help from the River City Brass Band, which returned previously donated instruments to support the revival.
David Pickett Honored and New Leadership Changes — Dr. David Pickett, NABBA's longtime Membership Chairman, was recognized with a Life Membership for his contributions, along with Chuck Hall and Dr. Perry Watson, as NABBA marked its founders' achievements.
Buffalo Silver Band Appoints New Conductor — The Buffalo Silver Band broke a 50-year tradition by appointing Wendy Metz, a euphonium player with a Master's in Conducting, as its new conductor.
This combined double issue (46 & 47) of The Brass Band Bridge previewed the upcoming NABBA Championships X in Columbus, Ohio, and featured a detailed firsthand account of the 1991 British National Brass Band Championships in London. It also included updates from member bands across North America and news of expanded access to Salvation Army brass band music.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Championships X Announced for Columbus, Ohio — The North American Brass Band Championships X was scheduled for April 10-11, 1992 in Columbus, Ohio, hosted by Dr. Paul Droste and the Brass Band of Columbus, with Geoffrey Brand as special guest and adjudicators Geoffrey Brand, Gordon E. McGowan, and Captain Thomas E. Palmatier.
Report on the 1991 British National Brass Band Championships — Captain Thomas H. Palmatier of The United States Army Band recounted attending the British National Championships at the Royal Albert Hall, describing rehearsals with Desford Colliery Caterpillar Band and Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and the Gala Concert featuring the European premiere of Stephen Bulla's Firestorm.
Desford Colliery Caterpillar Band Wins British Nationals — Desford Colliery Caterpillar Band, conducted by James Watson, won the 1991 British National Brass Band Championships performing Robert Simpson's Energy, ahead of Britannia Building Society and Grimethorpe Colliery.
United States Army Brass Band Releases Firestorm CD — TUSABB released its first compact disc, Firestorm, a live recording from the Gala Concert following NABBA Championships IX in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, featuring Stephen Bulla's title composition.
Salvation Army Brass Band Music Opens Up — Dr. Ronald W. Holz reported that The Salvation Army relaxed longstanding restrictions on its brass band music, making series like the Festival Series fully available to NABBA bands as of December.
Milwaukee British Brass Band Renamed Festival City Brass — The Milwaukee British Brass Band changed its name to Festival City Brass to align with the city's marketing branding, dropping the word 'band'.
Gramercy Brass Marks Tenth Anniversary — The Gramercy Brass Band of New York, having won NABBA Championships in 1984 and 1985 and formalized as a nonprofit in 1986, celebrated its tenth anniversary season with a new sponsorship from Boosey & Hawkes Buffet Crampon.
Buffalo Silver Band Seeks Interim Conductor — Conductor Michael Russo took a leave of absence for graduate school, prompting the Buffalo Silver Band to search for an interim conductor, possibly the band's first female leader in its 76-year history; the band also lost longtime member Glen Redden to cancer.
Issue 45 (August 1991) of The Brass Band Bridge reported NABBA's Board decision to liberalize Championships rules ahead of the 1992 contest in Columbus, Ohio, including a choice of test pieces and relaxed instrumentation for the Open Section. The issue also announced the death of Canadian composer Morley Calvert, detailed the River City Brass Band's ambitious 1991-92 season with Philip Sparke as guest conductor, and covered various NABBA member band news, music reviews, and a change in NABBA presidency from Paul Droste to Don Kneeburg.
In this issue (7)
Championships Rules Liberalized — NABBA's Board of Directors liberalized the Championships rules to boost enjoyment and participation, allowing bands to choose from three test pieces per section, permitting on-stage tuning, relaxing Open Section instrumentation rules, and allowing adjudicators to view bands starting in 1992.
Death of Morley Calvert — Distinguished Canadian composer Morley Calvert died in Hamilton, Ontario at age 62; he founded the McGill Concert Band and Lakeshore Concert Band and served as Bandmaster of The Salvation Army's Montreal Citadel Band, composing notable brass works including Introduction, Elegy, and Caprice for the first European Brass Band Championship.
Presidency Transition: Droste to Kneeburg — Paul E. Droste's term as NABBA President ended after four years, reflecting on the organization's growth, stability, and expanded publication, as the association prepared for new leadership and the 1992 Championships in Columbus.
River City Brass Band's Ambitious Season — Music Director Bob Bernat reported the River City Brass Band's busy 1991-92 season with 135 services scheduled, multiple concert series across Pittsburgh-area venues, and world premieres by guest conductor Philip Sparke including a Pittsburgh Symphony and Concerto for Trumpet and Brass Band.
RCBB Hires New Tubist — The River City Brass Band hired Neal Tidwell, formerly of the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra, as its new principal tubist after a year-long search.
Ohio State University Marching Band Joins NABBA — The Ohio State University Marching Band, the world's largest all-brass marching band, joined NABBA with Dr. Jon Woods presenting the membership dues check; the band traces its all-brass tradition to 1934 under Professor Eugene J. Weigel.
Firestorm Premiere at Royal Albert Hall — Desford Colliery Band, conducted by James Watson, gave the first UK performance of Stephen Bulla's Firestorm at the Royal Albert Hall Gala Concert following the National Championships, arranged through NABBA and the U.S. Army Band's Captain Palmatier.
Issue 44 (May 1991) of The Brass Band Bridge covered NABBA's ninth annual Championships held at the Paramount Theatre in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where the Brass Band of Columbus and Atlantic Brass Band won the Championship Section. The issue also featured a review of the Gala Concert by The United States Army Brass Band, including the premiere of Stephen Bulla's Firestorm, plus news on the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band's tenth anniversary, the National Capital Band's upcoming Scandinavia/Estonia tour, and NABBA organizational updates.
In this issue (6)
Championships IX Results — The Brass Band of Columbus (Paul Droste) won the Championship Section, with Atlantic Brass Band placing second, while Ohio Collegiate Brass topped the Honors Section and other bands competed across Challenge, Youth, and Open sections.
Gala Concert Featured Bulla's Firestorm Premiere — The United States Army Brass Band, led by Captain Thomas Palmatier, performed the Championships Gala Concert including the premiere of Stephen Bulla's new work Firestorm, inspired by the Persian Gulf War.
Smoky Mountain British Brass Band Marks Tenth Anniversary — Founded by NABBA co-founder Richard Trevarthen, the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band celebrated its tenth anniversary season with four subscription concerts and plans to fund travel to the 1992 Championships in Columbus.
National Capital Band to Tour Scandinavia and Estonia — The Salvation Army's National Capital Band, led by Bandmaster Stephen Bulla, planned a tour through Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Estonia, and Finland, becoming the first NABBA member band to visit Estonia.
New British-Style Brass Band Formed at Governor's Foot Guard — Professor David Maker of the University of Connecticut was named director and reorganized the Second Company Governor's Foot Guard Band as a British-style brass band.
NABBA Archives Established in Cullowhee — NABBA Archivist Bert Wiley reported that the association's nearly decade-old historical records, including documents, programs, and Bridge issues, were relocated to Cullowhee, North Carolina for research use.
This double issue (Nov 90/Feb 91) of The Brass Band Bridge previewed NABBA Championships IX in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, detailing competing bands, adjudicators, test pieces, and the Gala Concert premiere of Stephen Bulla's Firestorm by the U.S. Army Brass Band. It also covered news from the Brass Band of Columbus, an interview with euphonium soloist Laura Lineberger on joining The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, and updates from Toronto's Hannaford Street Silver Band including a new youth band and children's recording.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Championships IX Announced — The ninth NABBA Championships were set for April 26-27, 1991, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, hosted by the Eastern Iowa Brass Band, with ten bands competing across five sections.
Firestorm Premiere by U.S. Army Brass Band — Composer Stephen Bulla created a new work, Rhapsody for Brass Band - Firestorm, inspired by the Persian Gulf crisis, to premiere at the Championships Gala Concert performed by The United States Army Brass Band under Captain Thomas H. Palmatier.
Geoffrey Brand to Adjudicate Championships X — Funding secured from an individual gift and a TRW Inc. matching grant will bring British conductor Geoffrey Brand across the Atlantic to adjudicate the 1992 NABBA Championships in Columbus, Ohio.
Laura Lineberger Joins U.S. Army Ceremonial Band — Euphonium soloist Laura Lineberger left the Brass Band of Columbus after winning an audition to become Staff Sergeant in The United States Army Ceremonial Band, discussing her musical training and army experiences in an extended interview.
Hannaford Street Silver Band Launches Youth Band — The Hannaford Street Silver Band in Toronto announced the formation of the Hannaford Street Youth Band, with Curtis Metcalf as Bandmaster, to develop young brass musicians in the community.
Hannaford Street Silver Band Releases Children's Recording — The HSSB released a new children's recording, Bring On The Brass, narrated by actor Leo McKern, featuring works by Toronto composer J. Scott Irvine and traditional brass band pieces.
Brass Band of Columbus Christmas Concerts Aid World Hunger — The Brass Band of Columbus performed two charity Christmas concerts at Northland Mall, raising over $1,000 for The Salvation Army World Hunger Program, with coverage by local Columbus television.
Joel Pugh Leaves Brass Band of Columbus — Euphoniumist Joel Pugh left the Brass Band of Columbus and resigned as conductor of the Ohio Collegiate Brass Band to take on new responsibilities at Capital University and Heidelberg College.
Issue 41 (August 1990) of The Brass Band Bridge covered a joint concert between the Mississippi River Brass Band and England's Tilbury Youth Brass Band in Hannibal, Missouri, alongside reports on the inaugural Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Kentucky and summer Yamaha/NABBA workshops across the US. The issue also featured Canadian brass band news, personnel changes at River City Brass Band, an update on the Buffalo Silver Band's transition, a new San Diego brass band launch, and a technical interview on cymbal selection.
In this issue (7)
Mississippi River Brass Band & Tilbury Youth Band Joint Concert — The Mississippi River Brass Band hosted 27 young musicians from England's Tilbury Youth Brass Band for a joint concert in Hannibal, Missouri, featuring combined pieces and an exchange of gifts, with an invitation extended for MRBB to compete at British Brass Band Finals.
The Great American Brass Band Festival Debuts — A new brass band festival organized by George Foreman in Danville, Kentucky drew 15,000-20,000 attendees and featured NABBA's Brass Band of Columbus alongside Dejan's Olympia Brass Band, Jack Daniel's Original Silver Cornet Band, and other groups, with plans for an annual return in 1991.
Yamaha/NABBA Summer Brass Band Workshops — Paul Droste led a series of Yamaha-sponsored brass band workshops across the US in 1990, including Danville KY, Phoenix AZ, Gunnison CO, Wenatchee WA, San Antonio TX, and Battle Creek MI, exposing over 100 players to brass band music and generating new NABBA memberships.
Buffalo Silver Band Weathers Transition — The 75-year-old Buffalo Silver Band, founded in 1915, navigated a difficult period as it transitioned musical leadership and worked to preserve its British brass band cornet sound under new conductor Mike Russo, planning a 75th Anniversary concert in November.
River City Brass Band Names New General Manager — Carol Dougherty succeeded Joan Kimmel as General Manager of Pittsburgh's professional River City Brass Band, while Music Director Robert Bernat received an Honorary Doctorate from Washington & Jefferson College.
New San Diego Brass Band Launches — A new, yet-to-be-named brass band in San Diego was organized by John Wyman and Charles Hansen, aiming for professional standards, original brass band repertoire, and its first rehearsal scheduled for October 1990.
Editorial: Concerns Over Canadian Band Participation — NABBA editor Thomas Myers noted the lack of recent news from Canadian bands like Hannaford Street Silver Band, Weston Silver Band, and Whitby Brass Band, and called for more Canadian representation on the NABBA Board of Directors.
Issue 40 (May 1990) of The Brass Band Bridge reported on NABBA's eighth annual Championships, held April 6-7, 1990 at Carnegie Music Hall in Pittsburgh, where the Brass Band of Columbus, led by Dr. Paul Droste, took the Championship Section title. The issue also featured articles on trumpet technique by Carole Dawn Reinhart, a review of Robert Bernat's River City Brass Band gala concert, band news from Wenatchee British Brass Band and the newly formed Salt River Brass Band, and minutes from the NABBA Board meeting including plans for future Championships in Cedar Rapids (1991) and Washington, D.C. (1993).
In this issue (8)
Brass Band of Columbus Wins Championships VIII — The Brass Band of Columbus, directed by Dr. Paul Droste, won the Championship Section at NABBA's eighth annual Championships, held April 6-7, 1990 at Carnegie Music Hall in Pittsburgh, with a performance of Morley Calvert's Introduction, Elegy, and Caprice praised by the composer himself.
Full Championships VIII Results Announced — Thirteen bands from the US, Canada, and Australia competed across Championship, Honors, Challenge, Youth, and Open sections, with Eastern Iowa Brass Band, Ohio Collegiate Brass, and River City Youth Brass Band among the section winners.
New Bands Debut at Championships — Three bands made their NABBA competition debut in Pittsburgh, including the River City Youth Brass Band using American instrumentation, Australia's Narrabri Shire Band, and the newly founded Ohio Collegiate Brass under Joel Pugh.
River City Brass Band Gala Concert Reviewed — Robert Bernat's professional River City Brass Band performed a well-received but stylistically hybrid Gala Concert at Championships VIII, mixing traditional brass band repertoire with popular arrangements and drawing some criticism for remarks about British brass band tradition.
NABBA Board Sets Future Championship Sites — At the April 1990 Board meeting, NABBA accepted an offer from Captain Tom Palmatier for The U.S. Army Brass Band to host Championships XI in 1993 at Fort Myer, Virginia, while the Allegheny Brass Band offered to host again in 1994; Championships IX was confirmed for Cedar Rapids, Iowa in 1991.
Wenatchee British Brass Band's Innovative Programming — The Wenatchee British Brass Band was highlighted for its creative concert programming and strong community/public relations support, including themed concerts and local radio broadcasts of its performances.
Salt River Brass Band Founded in Arizona — The Salt River Brass Band, founded in January 1988 as Arizona's first British-style brass band, was profiled as a 27-member ensemble reviving the American town band tradition with British-style instrumentation.
Viennese Tonguing Technique Explained — Trumpet professor Carole Dawn Reinhart of the Academy of Music in Vienna contributed an article explaining the technique of Viennese Tonguing, learned from the late Helmut Wobisch of the Vienna Philharmonic.
Issue 39 (February 1990) reported Eastern Iowa Brass Band's second consecutive NABBA Video Competition win and previewed the details of NABBA Championships VIII in Pittsburgh, including competing bands, adjudicators, and event logistics. The issue also included a decade-long history and results listing of NABBA Championships I-VII, a note on Dr. Paul Droste's election to the American Bandmasters Association, and several brass band music reviews.
In this issue (7)
Eastern Iowa Brass Band Wins Video Competition Again — The Eastern Iowa Brass Band from Mt. Vernon, Iowa, won the NABBA Video Competition for the second consecutive year with 159 points, ahead of Salt River Brass Band and Westwinds Brass Band; adjudicators Dr. David Pickett and Dr. Ronald Holz judged the tapes.
Championships VIII Preview in Pittsburgh — Thirteen brass bands were set to compete at NABBA Championships VIII on April 7, 1990 at Carnegie Music Hall in Pittsburgh, including a new Open Section won by Carnegie Mellon University Brass Band, with adjudicators Morley Calvert, William Himes, and Raymond Premru.
Eastern Iowa to Host Championships IX — The Eastern Iowa Brass Band was announced as the host of NABBA Championships IX, to be held April 25, 1991, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Dr. Paul Droste Elected to American Bandmasters Association — NABBA President Dr. Paul Droste was elected to membership in the American Bandmasters Association in 1989, recognized for his work with The Brass Band of Columbus.
The Brass Band Bridge: A Decade of Leadership — The issue reviewed the history of The Brass Band Bridge, founded by J. Perry Watson in April 1980, and traced its editorial leadership through Perry Watson and then K.D. and Don Kneeburg.
NABBA Championships History Results (1983-1989) — The issue printed detailed results of NABBA Championships I through VII, listing winning bands such as Smoky Mountain British Brass Band, Gramercy British Brass, The Brass Band of Columbus, and WRAL British Brass Band across multiple sections.
Adjudicator Biographies for Championships VIII — Detailed biographies were published for the three Championships VIII adjudicators: composer and educator Morley Calvert, Salvation Army bandmaster William Himes, and trombonist/composer Raymond Premru.
Second Annual Video Competition Launched — NABBA invited bands across the U.S. and Canada to enter its second annual video competition, an entertainment contest judged by David Pickett, Douglas Field, and Karen Kneeburg, with a $250 prize for first place.
New NABBA Board Members Elected — Six new members were automatically added to the NABBA Board of Directors after nominations were submitted, including James G. Joyce, Alfred Duerig, Anita Collings, Dale B. Peckman, Tony Guerere, and Glenn T. Kelly.
Call for 1990 Championship Test Pieces — The NABBA Music Committee, chaired by Don Kneeburg, sought membership recommendations for test pieces to be used in the 1990 Championships across four divisions: Youth, Challenge, Honors, and Championship.
Hannaford Street Silver Band Pops Concert — Howard Cable conducted the Hannaford Street Silver Band in a Victoria Day weekend pops concert featuring trumpet soloist Johnny Cowell of the Toronto Symphony.
Central Florida Brass Band Profile — The Central Florida Brass Band, a professional 13-member ensemble led by bandmaster Richard Mizell, performed light entertainment music reminiscent of Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops at venues including Ormond Beach and the Winter Park Art Festival.
Wenatchee British Brass Band Highlights — The Wenatchee British Brass Band was selected to host the first-ever Washington Centennial Winter Games Opening Ceremonies, was featured in a state arts publication, and received $2,000 from the Alcoa Foundation to purchase new tympani.
This issue of The Brass Band Bridge reported on the 1989 NABBA Championships VII held in Asheville, North Carolina, where WRAL British Brass Band won the Championship Division. It also covered the announcement of the fourth annual Festival of Brass Band Workshops sponsored by Yamaha, the second annual NABBA video competition, a new TRW-commissioned work by Stephen Bulla, and a review of an International Staff Band concert in Clearwater, Florida.
In this issue (8)
WRAL Wins Championship Division at Championships VII — WRAL British Brass Band, conducted by Jack Stamp, won the Championship Division at NABBA's Championships VII in Asheville, North Carolina, performing Plantagenets by Edward Gregson as the test piece.
Eastern Iowa and NCSU Win Other Divisions — Eastern Iowa Brass Band, conducted by Steve Wright, won the Honors Division, while NCSU British Brass Band, conducted by Perry Watson, won the Challenge Division at Championships VII.
Brass Band of Columbus Presents Gala Concert — Having won the Championship Division three years running, the Brass Band of Columbus was ineligible to compete and instead presented the Gala Concert at Championships VII, led by conductor Paul Droste with guest James Curnow conducting his own composition.
Soloist Medallion Awards Presented — Brian Potter, Joan DeHoff, and Michael Saul received medallion awards for outstanding solo performances at Championships VII, with Joan DeHoff also winning the Outstanding Soloist of the Day Award, a sterling silver bowl sponsored by Schilke Company.
Festival of Brass Band Workshops Announced — NABBA announced its fourth annual Festival of Brass Band Workshops, sponsored by Yamaha Corporation of America, to be held in five states during summer 1989 with certification credit available through North Carolina State University.
Second Annual NABBA Video Competition — NABBA launched its second annual video competition, allowing member bands across the U.S. and Canada to submit performance tapes for judging, with a $250 prize for first place.
TRW Commissions Stephen Bulla for Armed Forces Salute — TRW Inc. commissioned composer Stephen Bulla to write a brass band salute to the U.S. Armed Forces, to premiere in Washington, D.C. performed by The National Capital Band under Bulla's direction.
International Staff Band Concert in Clearwater — The International Staff Band of The Salvation Army, led by Lieut-Colonel Ray Bowes, performed to a packed house in Clearwater, Florida, featuring soloists Kevin Ashman, Robert Foster, and Derick Kane.
Issue 35 (Feb. 1989) of The Brass Band Bridge announced results of NABBA's inaugural Premier Video Competition and previewed the Seventh Annual North American Brass Band Championships in Asheville, North Carolina. It also featured a glowing review of The Brass Band of Columbus's performance at the Mid-West Band Clinic in Chicago, along with band news, personnel changes, and a Salvation Army International Staff Band U.S. tour itinerary.
In this issue (8)
Eastern Iowa Brass Band tops first NABBA Video Competition — NABBA held its first Video Competition, judging videotaped concerts from North American brass bands; Eastern Iowa Brass Band of Mt. Vernon, Iowa won first place, followed by Salt River Brass Band and Westwinds Brass Band.
Seventh Annual North American Brass Band Championships announced — NABBA's 1989 Championships were scheduled for April 15 in Asheville, North Carolina, with The Brass Band of Columbus performing the Gala Concert and James Curnow adjudicating and conducting his own composition.
Brass Band of Columbus dazzles at Mid-West Band Clinic — The three-time NABBA champion Brass Band of Columbus, led by Dr. Paul Droste, gave an acclaimed performance at the Mid-West International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, featuring soloists Brian Bowman and composer Alfred Reed in attendance.
U.S. Army Ceremonial Brass renamed and gets new conductor — The U.S. Army Ceremonial Brass and Percussion was renamed The U.S. Army Brass Band, with First Lieutenant Thomas H. Palmatier succeeding Cpt. David Deitrick as conductor after Deitrick's reassignment to Heidelberg, Germany.
Robert Bernat named Man of the Year in Pittsburgh — River City Brass Band founder and music director Robert Bernat was named 1988 Man of the Year in Arts and Music by Vectors/Pittsburgh, recognizing the band's cultural contribution to the region.
Salvation Army International Staff Band to tour U.S. — The Salvation Army's International Staff Band, led by Bandmaster Lieutenant Colonel Ray Bowes, planned an extensive April 1989 tour across the United States including Washington DC, Chicago, and New York.
Smoky Mountain British Brass Band recaps busy 1988 — Manager Bert Wiley described a full year of concerts for the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band, including performances for a Harley-Davidson rally, the NC Music Educators convention, and the Grove Park Inn dedication, with 1989 plans including a concert with Chet Atkins.
NABBA calls for Board of Directors nominations — NABBA announced a nomination process for up to 10 Board of Directors vacancies, with terms beginning at the September 1989 Annual Meeting, to be coordinated by Don Kneeburg.
This November 1988 issue previewed the seventh annual North American Brass Band Championships in Asheville, North Carolina, including test piece selections and a Gala Concert by the Brass Band of Columbus. It also featured a report on the Canadian Chester Brass Band's new headquarters, record reviews of British brass band albums, a feature on brass bands in Japan, and updates from the Hannaford Street Silver Band's busy concert season.
In this issue (8)
NABBA Championships VII Announced for Asheville — The seventh annual North American Brass Band Championships was scheduled for April 1989 at the Asheville Civic Center, with the Quality Inn on the Plaza as host hotel and entry deadline February 13, 1989.
Brass Band of Columbus to Headline Gala Concert — The Brass Band of Columbus, three-time Championship Division winner (1986, 1987, 1988), was chosen to perform the Saturday Gala Concert at Championships VII, featuring euphonium soloist Joel Pugh on Gregson's Symphonic Rhapsody.
Test Pieces Chosen for Championships VII — Test pieces were announced for each division: Gregson's Plantagenets (Championship), Holst's A Moorside Suite (Honors), Bulla's new City Scapes (Challenge), and Ball's English Country Scenes (Youth).
Canadian Band Builds Its Own Hall — The Chester Brass Band in Nova Scotia completed construction of its own rehearsal hall and facility, built largely by band volunteers, with a memorial deck dedicated to the late cornetist Carl Hiltz.
Video Competition and NABBA Officers — NABBA's Premier Video Competition deadline was extended to November 1, 1988, with judges including Paul Droste, Mike Swaffar, and Karen Kneeburg, and technical advisor Reese Edwards.
Brass Bands Flourishing in Japan — Thomas A. Myers described a visit to Tokyo where he met conductor Toshikazu Nagasaka and hornist Hidenori Naraoka of The Band of the Black Colt, discussing the vibrant British-style brass band movement in Japan.
Hannaford Street Silver Band's Busy Season — The Hannaford Street Silver Band reported a packed 1987-88 season including a world premiere by Malcolm Forsyth, a Maritimes tour, performing brass parts for Shostakovich's opera Lady MacBeth of Mtzensk, and a concert conducted by composer Edward Gregson.
Future Championship Venues and Rule Change — Future NABBA Championships venues were announced for Pittsburgh (1990) and Cedar Rapids (1991), and a rule change allowed unlimited substitutions as long as no more than 30 players appeared on stage at once.
Issue 33 (Aug. 1988) of The Brass Band Bridge announced NABBA's new Premier Video Competition and the host cities for Championships VII through X. It also featured a report from the Whitby Brass Band, a debate on French horns versus tenor horns, record and music reviews, and correspondence about brass band touring and international ties.
Issue 32 (May 1988) reported on the sixth NABBA Championship held in Hammonton, New Jersey, where the Brass Band of Columbus won its third consecutive Championship Division title, achieving a "hat trick" that required it to sit out 1989. The issue also covered the River City Brass Band's acclaimed tour of Australia and New Zealand, a Rocky Mountain Brassworks benefit concert, a profile of tubist Olive Gifford, and record reviews.
In this issue (6)
Brass Band of Columbus Wins Sixth NABBA Championship — The Brass Band of Columbus, conducted by Paul Droste, won the Championship Division at the sixth NABBA Championship in Hammonton, New Jersey, marking three consecutive titles and forcing them to sit out the 1989 contest in Asheville, North Carolina.
Championship VI Division Winners Announced — Results were listed for all divisions: Columbus won Championship, WRAL British Brass Band won Honors, NCSU British Brass Band won Challenge, and Varsity All-Star Brass Band won Youth Division.
River City Brass Band Tours Australia and New Zealand — The River City Brass Band completed a 28-day, three-year-in-the-making tour of Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand, receiving rave reviews from critics and praise from U.S. Ambassador Bill Lane for their performances alongside major artists like the Chicago Symphony and Wynton Marsalis.
Rocky Mountain Brassworks Benefit Concert — The Rocky Mountain Brassworks, led by Dr. John Bell, performed a benefit concert for the Denver area Food Bank Coalition at St. Elizabeth Church, with plans to make it an annual event.
Profile: Tubist Olive Gifford — A feature profiled longtime tubist Olive Gifford of Colorado, who has played her 1929 York recording tuba for 59 years and participated in British brass band workshops at Western State College since 1974.
NABBA Entertainment Video Competition Announced — NABBA announced a new Entertainment Video Competition allowing amateur brass bands to compete without travel expenses, with entries due October 12, 1988.
Issue 31 of The Brass Band Bridge (Feb. 1988) announced NABBA's third annual Yamaha-sponsored brass band workshop series across five U.S. cities and previewed the upcoming NABBA Championship VI in Roselle, New Jersey. It also featured book reviews on brass instrument history and bandstands, a St. Johns River City Band feature with Chet Atkins and Al Hirt, and a report on the Gettysburg High School Ceremonial Brass Band's uniform fundraising needs.
In this issue (7)
Third Annual Festival of Workshops Announced — NABBA announced its third annual series of Yamaha-sponsored brass band workshops to be held in five U.S. cities during summer 1988, led by instructor J. Perry Watson.
NABBA Championship VI Preview Announced — The upcoming NABBA Championship VI was announced to be hosted in Roselle, New Jersey, with a special preview issue of The Brass Band Bridge promised for March.
St. Johns River City Band Performs with Chet Atkins at Carnegie Hall — The St. Johns River City Band, under new music director Samuel Fricano and retiring conductor Paul Chiaravalle, performed a wide-ranging program with guitarist Chet Atkins and euphonium soloist Rich Matteson at Carnegie Hall in New York.
St. Johns River City Band Featured at Jacksonville Jazz Festival with Al Hirt — The band performed with Al Hirt at the seventh annual Jacksonville Jazz Festival, drawing over 120,000 attendees and being filmed for a PBS special.
Gettysburg Ceremonial Brass Band Seeks Uniform Funding — The Gettysburg High School Ceremonial Brass Band, formed in 1963 to commemorate Civil War history, sought donations to replace its worn Civil War-era style uniforms ahead of the 125th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg.
Book Review: Twentieth Century Brass Musical Instruments in the United States — A book by Richard J. Dundas cataloguing American brass instrument manufacturers was reviewed, praised for its historical detail on companies like Conn, Bach, and Buescher.
Book Review: The Oberlin Book of Bandstands — Oberlin College's book documenting a national bandstand design competition and the history of American bandstands was reviewed.
Issue 30 (Nov. 1987) of The Brass Band Bridge announced the venue, test pieces, and guest band for the 1988 North American Brass Band Championship VI in Atlantic City, and reported NABBA's newly elected Executive Committee. It also featured band news from new and growing ensembles, British brass band contest results, an honor for Peter Wilson, and record/book reviews.
In this issue (8)
Championship VI Announced for Atlantic City — NABBA announced that the Showboat Hotel-Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey would host the sixth North American Brass Band Championship on April 8-9, 1988, hosted by the Atlantic Brass Band, with the Brodsworth Colliery Band from England performing the gala concert and new test pieces chosen for each section.
NABBA Elects New Executive Committee — At its annual board meeting in Tampa, Florida, NABBA elected a new Executive Committee including Paul Droste as President, Karen Kneeburg as Vice President, Doug Reid as Secretary, and Mike Swaffar as Treasurer, and discussed contest rules and future planning.
Screamers & Lyric Brass Band's First Concert — The Screamers & Lyric Brass Band, founded in London in 1985 and based in Akron, Ohio, performed its debut concert on Flag Day 1987 in Medina, Ohio, and shared its journey building the band from scratch.
A Family's Brass Band Passion: Whitby Brass Band — A NABBA member wrote about her family's multigenerational involvement with the Whitby Brass Band in Canada, describing how the whole family learned instruments together and became active in the band's community life.
British Open and National Championship Results — Williams Fairey Engineering Band won the British Open with 194 points ahead of Britannia Building Society Foden's, while Desford Colliery Dowty took first at the British National Championship, with test pieces 'Freedom' and 'Harmony Music' respectively.
Philip McCann Resigns from Black Dyke Mills — Philip McCann, principal cornet of Black Dyke Mills for 14 years, announced his resignation from the famed chair after a highly successful tenure.
Death of Tubist John Fletcher — John Fletcher, renowned tuba player of the London Symphony Orchestra and the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble, died on October 2 after suffering a stroke earlier that year.
Peter Wilson Honored by NABBA — Peter Wilson, editor of the British Bandsman, was named the first Honorary Life-Time Member of NABBA for his contributions helping establish and guide the association since 1981.
This 1987 issue of The Brass Band Bridge detailed the Atlantic Brass Band's reciprocal tour of England with the Jaguar Cars and Brodsworth Colliery bands, including a factory tour and joint concerts. It also reported on the 1987 European Brass Band Championships in Nottingham, NABBA board elections, and updates on the NABBA Archives at North Carolina State University.
In this issue (6)
Atlantic Brass Band Tours England — The New Jersey-based Atlantic Brass Band completed an 8-day reciprocal tour of England, performing with the Jaguar Cars and Brodsworth Colliery bands, touring the Jaguar factory, and receiving a standing ovation at a massed band concert in Heanor.
European Brass Band Championships 1987 — John Foster Black Dyke Mills, conducted by Major Peter Parkes, won the 1987 European Brass Band Championships in Nottingham, England, ahead of Williams Fairey Engineering, Murray International Whitburn, and defending champion Desford Colliery Dowty.
NABBA Board Elections — Six new members were elected by acclamation to the NABBA Board of Directors, including Alan Raph, Paul Droste, Don Stine, K.D. Kneeburg, Bernard Mackey, and Michael Swaffar.
NABBA Archives Growth — The NABBA Archives at North Carolina State University in Raleigh continued to grow with donated memorabilia, recordings, programs, and competition records dating back to the first Championships in 1983.
River City Brass Band on The Today Show — The River City Brass Band, led by Bob Bernat, performed for an audience of 10 million viewers on NBC's Today Show from Pittsburgh, part of several television and radio projects documenting the band.
Kew Citizens Band Plans US Tour — The Kew Citizens Band from Australia announced plans for a June/July 1988 tour of the United States and sought partner bands for concerts, following a less successful 1984 visit.
This May 1987 issue covered the fifth NABBA North American Brass Band Championship held in Columbus, reporting results across divisions and featuring clinics from the event's judges. It also included brass band workshop announcements sponsored by Yamaha, band news from Sunshine Brass, Capitol English Brass Band, Eastern Iowa Brass Band, and a profile of NABBA board member Herb Roselle.
In this issue (7)
Brass Band of Columbus wins Championship V — The Brass Band of Columbus, conducted by Paul Droste, won the NABBA Championship Division for the second consecutive year, performing Gregson's 'Connotations' and Vinter's 'Salute to Youth'; the Atlantic Brass Band placed second.
WRAL British Brass Band wins Honors Division — The newly formed WRAL British Brass Band, conducted by David Reed, won the Honors Division at Championship V with a performance of Gareth Wood's 'Hinemoa,' with soloist James Ketch earning the Schilke Trophy for Outstanding Soloist.
Eastern Iowa Brass Band tops Challenge Division — The Eastern Iowa Brass Band, led by Steve Wright, won the Challenge Division playing Philip Sparke's 'A Malvern Suite,' beating the Rockville Brass Band into second place.
Yamaha-sponsored brass band workshops announced — NABBA and Yamaha announced a second annual Festival of Brass Band Workshops to be held in six U.S. cities during summer 1987, led by J. Perry Watson and Richard Tolley.
Capitol English Brass Band rebuilds after losing sponsor — Utah's Capitol English Brass Band, founded in 1972 by Doug Brown, Sr., struggled after losing sponsorship in 1986 but regrouped with member contributions and donated resources to continue performing.
Sunshine Brass completes successful fall season — Sunshine Brass, under conductor Karen Kneeburg, completed a successful concert series including a televised University of South Florida performance and holiday concerts, before competing in the Championship Division for the first time.
Profile: Herb Roselle, NABBA board member — The issue profiled Herb Roselle, co-founder of the Atlantic Brass Band with his wife Lucy, detailing his British roots and musical career in New Jersey.
The Bridge profiled NABBA board member and editor Karen Davoli-Kneeburg, who founded Sunshine Brass in 1983 and led it to win the Honors Division of the NABBA Championships in 1984, 1985 and 1986.
This issue of The Brass Band Bridge (Nov. 1986) announced that the Brass Band of Columbus would host NABBA Championship V in Dublin, Ohio on April 17, 1987, with test pieces selected for each division. It also recapped the successful NABBA-Yamaha brass band workshops held across the U.S., profiled Treasurer Mike Swaffar, featured a detailed article on brass instrument intonation, and reported news from member bands including Chester Brass Band and Asbury College's brass bands.
In this issue (8)
Championship V Announced for Dublin, Ohio — NABBA's Board accepted a proposal from the Brass Band of Columbus to host Championship V at Dublin High School near Columbus, Ohio on April 17, 1987, with a new Youth Division added to the contest format.
Test Pieces Selected for Championship V — Test pieces were announced for each division of Championship V: Connotations by Edward Gregson (Championship), Hinemoa by Gareth Wood (Honors), A Malvern Suite by Philip Sparke (Challenge), and Music for Greenwich by Edward Gregson (Youth).
NABBA-Yamaha Brass Band Workshops Succeed — NABBA partnered with Yamaha International Corporation to host four brass band workshops in Raleigh NC, Madison WI, West Chester PA, and San Bruno CA, drawing 120 participants and led by NABBA Chairman J. Perry Watson.
British Open and National Championship Results — Black Dyke Mills won the 134th British Open Championship for the 25th time, while Fairey Engineering topped the British National Championship at Royal Albert Hall, narrowly beating Black Dyke Mills.
Profile: Treasurer Mike Swaffar — A profile of NABBA founding member and Treasurer Mike Swaffar detailed his musical career and how he was recruited into the brass band movement by J. Perry Watson.
Chester Brass Band and Junior Band Activities — Chester Brass Band reported on its growing junior band program and announced an 80th anniversary concert featuring soloists and the Aeolian Singers, plus a Christmas concert in Truro.
Asbury College Brass Bands Active — Asbury College's two brass bands, directed by Dr. Ronald Holz, explored 19th-century American brass band literature, released a new cassette recording, and performed a joint concert with the Brass Band of Columbus in Columbus, Ohio.
Article on Brass Instrument Intonation — Dr. Christopher Doone of the University of South Florida wrote a detailed technical article on the causes of intonation problems in brass instruments and strategies for performers to improve pitch accuracy.
This issue of The Brass Band Bridge covered the 1986 North American Brass Band Championship (Championship IV) held in Indianapolis, where the Brass Band of Columbus won the Championship Division, Sunshine Brass claimed a historic third consecutive Honors Division title, and NCSU British Brass Band topped the Challenge Division. It also featured summer brass band workshop listings, a profile of conductor Paul Droste, news of the Wenatchee British Brass Band, and a review of the Black Dyke Mills Band's first brass band CD.
In this issue (8)
Brass Band of Columbus Wins Championship IV — The Brass Band of Columbus, conducted by Paul Droste, won the Championship Division at the 1986 North American Brass Band Championships in Indianapolis, performing Ballet for Band by Joseph Horovitz; Mississippi River Brass Band placed second.
Sunshine Brass Achieves NABBA 'Hat Trick' — Sunshine Brass, conducted by Karen Kneeburg, won the Honors Division for the third consecutive year, marking NABBA's first 'hat trick,' with North Hills Brass Band placing second.
NCSU British Brass Band Tops Challenge Division — NCSU British Brass Band, led by J. Perry Watson, won the Challenge Division playing Malcolm Arnold's Little Suite for Brass, with Eastern Iowa Brass Band as runner-up and Kenneth Hersey named outstanding soloist.
Evening Concert Features River City Brass Band and Massed Band — The championship evening concert included a performance by the professional River City Brass Band, tenor horn soloist Gordon Higginbottom, and a massed band conducted by Robert Bernat, Norman Goffin, and Paul Bierley.
Gordon Higginbottom Clinic a Huge Success — Tenor horn virtuoso Gordon Higginbottom drew a standing-room-only crowd for his clinic at the North Meridian Inn during Championship IV weekend, sharing insights on technique and playing with humor.
European Brass Band Championship Results — Desford Colliery Band, conducted by Howard Snell, won the 1986 European Brass Band Championship in Cardiff, Wales, ahead of Black Dyke Mills and the Cory Band.
Wenatchee British Brass Band Completes Successful Season — The Wenatchee British Brass Band in Washington state completed its third season under conductor Dr. Duane Mikow, featuring guest soloists Gordon Higginbottom and George Hobbs, and receiving grants for instrument purchases.
Profile: Paul Droste, Founder of Brass Band of Columbus — The issue profiled Paul Droste, professor at Ohio State University and founder-conductor of the Brass Band of Columbus, noting his academic background and adjudication work including judging in New Zealand in 1984.
This issue of The Brass Band Bridge (Feb. 1986) previewed the upcoming Championships IV in Indianapolis, featuring a schedule, test pieces, and a Gala Concert with the River City Brass Band. It also covered recent band activities including the Mississippi River Brass Band's inaugural year, the Rocky Mountain Brassworks' snowy concert, and a profile of NABBA founder J. Perry Watson, plus news of UK bands planning US tours and upcoming NABBA-sponsored brass band workshops.
In this issue (8)
Championships IV Scheduled for Indianapolis — NABBA announced the schedule for its 1986 Championships IV at the Circle Theatre in Indianapolis, with twelve bands competing across Challenge, Honors, and Championship sections, and a Gala Concert featuring the River City Brass Band conducted by Robert Bernat with tenor horn soloist Gordon Higginbottom.
J. Perry Watson Profile: NABBA Founder — The first NABBA Profiles column highlighted founding Chairman J. Perry Watson, detailing his founding of the Brass Band Bridge in 1980, his role in establishing the first North American brass band contests, and the 1981 Brass Band Showcase at NC State that catalyzed the movement.
Mississippi River Brass Band's Inaugural Year — The newly formed Mississippi River Brass Band had a busy first year, performing at Hannibal, Missouri's Sesquicentennial and joining the Bloomington Brass Band for a joint 'Brass Band Spectacular' concert in November 1985.
Rocky Mountain Brassworks Braves Blizzard — The Rocky Mountain Brassworks performed a Festive Season Concert during a severe snowstorm, premiering director Paul Curnow's 'Suite of American Sailing Songs' at the Arvada Center for the Performing Arts.
UK Bands Plan 1987 US Tours — The Young Ambassadors Brass Band and the City of Oxford Silver Band announced plans to tour the United States in summer 1987, with Oxford celebrating its centennial.
St. Johns River City Band Benefit Concert — The St. Johns River City Band, led by Willis Page, held a sold-out benefit concert featuring jazz trumpeter Al Hirt, netting $45,000 to help match a $150,000 city grant for free concerts.
Hannaford Street Silver Band Concert Series — The Hannaford Street Silver Band opened its season with French horn virtuoso Ifor James and later combined with the Hart House Chorus for a Christmas concert, with performances broadcast nationally by the CBC.
NABBA Summer Workshops Announced — NABBA announced a series of 'American Festival of Brass Band Workshops' co-sponsored by Yamaha, to be held at five universities in summer 1986, instructed by J. Perry Watson.
Issue 22 of The Brass Band Bridge (Nov. 1985) announced the establishment of a NABBA brass band archives at North Carolina State University and upcoming Yamaha-sponsored workshops for 1986. The issue also covered the River City Brass Band's fall activities and recording plans, Canadian and British band news, and a change requiring membership for continued receipt of the newsletter.
In this issue (8)
Brass Band Archives Established at NC State — NABBA announced that NC State University Archivist Maurice Tolar would establish and maintain an official archive of brass band materials, including programs, photos, and records from NABBA's first contests.
Yamaha-Sponsored Brass Band Workshops Announced — NABBA revealed plans for a 1986 American Festival of Brass Band Workshops sponsored by Yamaha, to be held in five U.S. cities and taught by J. Perry Watson, with certification credit offered through NC State University.
NABBA Championships Set for Indianapolis — The NABBA Championships were scheduled for April 19, 1986, in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Membership Required for Newsletter — NABBA's Board ruled that due to rising costs, only paying members would continue to receive The Brass Band Bridge starting with the next issue.
River City Brass Band's Busy Fall Season — The River City Brass Band performed a Carnegie-themed concert series honoring Andrew Carnegie's 150th birthday, replaced the cancelled Dresden Symphony Orchestra in New Jersey, and toured Pennsylvania and West Virginia; music director Robert Bernat visited Carnegie's birthplace in Scotland.
River City Brass Band Records First Public Album — With grants from The Hillman Foundation and The Pittsburgh Foundation totaling $24,000, the RCBB planned its first commercially available recording, 'Premiere Brass,' featuring live performance highlights.
Chester Brass Band of Nova Scotia Active in Community and Film — The Chester Brass Band performed at a farm fundraiser, a new church opening, and appeared in a movie about Russian spies, while also raising funds for a new band room and launching a junior band program.
Hebden Bridge Band Joins NABBA — The historic Hebden Bridge Band from West Yorkshire, England, once conducted by William Rimmer and Fred Mortimer, joined NABBA as a member band under conductor David Albutt.
Issue 21 (August 1985) marked the final edition edited by J. Perry Watson, who reflected on The Bridge's growth from 89 to 1,500 readers since 1980 and announced Karen Kneeburg as incoming editor. The issue covered the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band's landmark performance for the American School Band Directors Association, NABBA's new federal tax-exempt status, results from the 1985 European Brass Band Championships in Copenhagen, and updates from university and community brass bands including Tennessee Tech, Western State College, and the Rocky Mountain Brassworks.
In this issue (8)
Editor Watson Signs Off, Kneeburg Takes Over — J. Perry Watson published his final issue as editor of The Bridge after five years, growing readership from 89 to over 1,500, and announced that Karen Kneeburg would become the new editor.
Smoky Mountain British Brass Band Performs for ASBDA — The Smoky Mountain British Brass Band gave what was likely the first brass band performance ever for the American School Band Directors Association at its national convention in Charlotte, NC, earning a standing ovation.
European Brass Band Championships Held in Copenhagen — Black Dyke Mills won the 1985 European Brass Band Championships in Copenhagen for the sixth time in eight years, with Cory Band second and Sun Life Band of Bristol third; the event highlighted a shift toward a more modern, powerful brass band sound.
NABBA Granted Federal Tax-Exempt Status — The Internal Revenue Service approved NABBA's application for federal tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3), making contributions to the organization tax deductible.
London Test Piece Announced for National Finals — Composer John McCabe's new work 'Cloudcatcher Fells,' commissioned with Arts Council funding, was announced as the top section test-piece for the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall.
Tennessee Tech Forms First University Brass Band in State — Tennessee Tech University presented its first concert on May 23, 1985, becoming the first university-level brass band in Tennessee, conducted by Charles Decker.
St. Johns River City Band Debuts in Jacksonville — The St. Johns River City Band, led by conductor Willis Page, completed a successful first season of 21 free outdoor concerts in Jacksonville, Florida.
Western State College and Rocky Mountain Brass Groups Hold Summer Events — Western State College's eleventh annual brass band workshop featured a new work by composer Carlyle Sharpe, while the Rocky Mountain Brassworks closed its summer season with a cannon-accompanied performance of the 1812 Overture in Denver.
This issue reported on the Third NABBA Championships held in Toronto, where Gramercy British Brass of New York successfully defended its title and Sunshine Brass of Tampa won the Honors Section, with a gala concert featuring trumpet soloist Philip Smith and the Earlscourt Citadel Band. It also covered the New York Salvation Army Staff Band's upcoming UK tour, new brass band activity emerging in Iowa and Colorado, and a Gettysburg high school ceremonial brass band's patriotic performances.
In this issue (7)
Gramercy British Brass Wins Championships III — Gramercy British Brass of New York, conducted by John Lambert, won the Championship Section at NABBA's Third Championships held at Weston Collegiate Institute in Toronto, scoring 283 points with Vinter's 'Gilbert Vinter's Aylesbury' test piece and other selections.
Sunshine Brass Retains Honors Section Title — Sunshine Brass of Tampa, Florida, led by Karen Kneeburg, again won First Place in the Honors Section, edging out Chester Brass Band of Nova Scotia and Whitby Brass Band of Ontario.
Gala Concert Features Philip Smith — Philip Smith, co-principal trumpet of the New York Philharmonic, gave an acclaimed solo performance alongside the Earlscourt Citadel Band of Toronto conducted by Ron Clayson, closing the Championships weekend.
New York Staff Band's Return To England Tour — Bandmaster Derek Smith led the New York Salvation Army Staff Band and Male Chorus on a UK tour, performing in Ipswich, Cambridge, Derby, Darlington, Gloucester, Hereford, and London.
Brass Banding Evolves in Iowa — A new brass band emerged from the Mount Vernon Municipal Band in Iowa after members attended a British Brass Band Workshop in Quincy, Illinois, drawing musicians from a seventy-mile radius.
Mile High Brass Report: Rocky Mountain Brassworks — The Rocky Mountain Brassworks of Colorado began their 1985 season with concerts at the Arvada Center, received new instruments through a grant, and planned a trip to Vail for the Colorado Bandmaster's Association Convention.
Gettysburg Ceremonial Brass Band's Patriotic Role — The Gettysburg High School Ceremonial Brass Band, formed in 1982 for a Confederate monument dedication, continued performing Civil War-era music at patriotic events and had hosted England's Young Ambassadors Brass Band.
This February 1985 issue of The Brass Band Bridge reported on newly formed bands including the Abilene Brass, Mississippi River Brass Band, and Oklahoma State University Brass Band, alongside updates from established groups like the River City Brass Band and Wenatchee British Brass Band. It also previewed the 1985 NABBA Championships III in Weston, Ontario, unveiled a new NABBA logo, and noted the death of Sunshine Brass tubist Ray McLaughlin.
In this issue (8)
Championships III Announced for Weston, Ontario — Twelve bands (eight from the US and four from Canada) were set to compete in the Championship and Honors sections at Weston Collegiate Institute, with the Earlscourt Citadel Band and cornet soloist Phillip Smith headlining the Gala Concert.
Abilene Brass Holds First Concert — The newly organized Abilene Brass, formed in November 1984 in Texas, gave its debut Christmas concert on December 7 under director Jim Jones with guest conductors from local colleges.
Mississippi River Brass Band Formed — Brass players from Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa gathered for a weekend of rehearsals in Quincy, Illinois, leading to the formation of the Mississippi River Brass Band under clinician Jerry Watson.
Gordon Higginbottom to Perform with Two Bands — Tenor horn virtuoso Gordon Higginbottom was scheduled to be featured soloist with both the River City Brass Band in Pittsburgh and the Wenatchee British Brass Band in Washington during a working holiday.
Death of Ray McLaughlin — Sunshine Brass principal Eb tubist Ray McLaughlin died of cancer at age 34 in December 1984, shortly after performing at the 1984 NABBA Championships.
New NABBA Logo Unveiled — A design class at North Carolina State University created a new logo for NABBA, with the winning design created by student Matthew Monk.
River City Brass Band Expands Reach — In its fourth season, the River City Brass Band under founder Robert Bernat saw growing audiences and expanded touring, while also helping organize new amateur brass bands in Pittsburgh.
New Conductor for North State Silver Cornets — Ned Gardner became the new conductor of the North State Silver Cornets of Greensboro, NC, leading the group into its third season with a new three-session schedule.
Issue 17 (August 1984) of The Brass Band Bridge announced the founding of the Wheaton Brass Band in New Jersey, sponsored by Wheaton Industries, and previewed the NABBA Championships III scheduled for April 1985 in Toronto. The issue also covered international brass band news including New Zealand contest results, profiles of the Gramercy British Brass of New York and Smoky Mountain British Brass Band, a British record review, and a tribute to retiring cornet player Jack Wynn.
In this issue (8)
Wheaton Brass Band Formed — A new brass band was founded in Millville, New Jersey, holding its inaugural rehearsal in May 1984 under conductor Charles Baker, with sponsorship from Wheaton Industries.
NABBA Championships III Announced — The third NABBA Championships were scheduled for April 12-13, 1985, to be held in Toronto, Canada.
Jack Wynn Retires — Cornet player Jack Wynn, who had a long career spanning the Salvation Army, Scots Guards, and various British brass bands before settling in Salt Lake City and later joining Capital English Brass Band, retired due to ill health.
New Zealand Contest Results — The 1984 New Zealand Brass Band Championships were held in Nelson, with Skellerup Brass winning A Grade and other bands placing across B, C, and D Grades.
Gramercy British Brass of New York — The Gramercy British Brass of New York, formed in 1982, performed at prestigious venues and competed in the NABBA Championship at West Chester University, Pennsylvania.
Smoky Mountain British Brass Band Performances — The Smoky Mountain British Brass Band played to enthusiastic crowds during North Carolina's 400th anniversary celebrations in Durham, including a performance in Duke Chapel.
T.U.B.A. Donation to NABBA — Harvey G. Phillips, president of the Tubists Universal Brotherhood Association, sent a $1000 contribution to NABBA to support organizational expenses.
Britain's Gala Concert Planned — Foden OTS, Hanwell, and Yorkshire Imperial bands were set to perform at a Gala Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, conducted by Sir David Willcocks, as part of the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain.
Gramercy British Brass of New York, conducted by John Lambert, won the Championship Section of the 1984 NABBA Championships at West Chester University with 278 points, ahead of runner-up Smoky Mountain British Brass Band.
In this issue (7)
Sunshine Brass Wins Honors Section — Sunshine Brass of Tampa, Florida, conducted by Karen Kneeburg, won the Honors Section of the 1984 NABBA Championships with 251 points, beating runner-up North Carolina State University British Brass Band.
Outstanding Soloist Award — Euphonium soloist Ron Williams of the Weston Silver Band of Ontario won the Renold O. Schilke Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Soloist of the Day at the 1984 Championships.
Championship Section Results — Other Championship Section bands and scores were listed: Weston Silver Band of Ontario (265), Whitby Brass of Ontario (251), and Buffalo Silver Band of New York (236).
Metropolitan Silver Band Celebrates 50th Anniversary — The Metropolitan Silver Band of Toronto, directed by Alan Moody, marked its 50th anniversary with a concert featuring guest barbershop group The Markham Men of Harmony.
Young Ambassadors Brass Band Tour Announced — The Young Ambassadors Brass Band of Great Britain, conducted by Frank Wolff, planned a North American tour with stops in Massachusetts, New York, Ontario, and Pennsylvania.
New Bands Welcomed to NABBA — Several new brass bands were reported as forming or organizing, including the North Hills Brass Band, Wallingford British Brass Band, Golden Horseshoe Brass Band, West Winds Brass Band, and English Oak Band of Negaunee.
Oshawa Civic Band Summer Concert Series — The Oshawa Civic Band, led by Barry Hodgins, planned a busy summer of concerts in the park featuring guest bands and choirs, celebrating its long banding history in the community.
This February 1984 issue previewed the upcoming NABBA Championships at West Chester University, announcing judges and weekend schedule, and reported on British brass band activity across North America including Texas Tech, Colorado workshops, Sunshine Brass in Florida, and the Capitol English Brass Band in Salt Lake City. It also included music reviews, a calendar of concerts, and news that the 1985 Championships would be held in Toronto.
In this issue (8)
1984 NABBA Championships Judges Selected — Roy Newsome, William Himes, and Charles Baker were announced as the judging panel for the 1984 North American Brass Band Championships at West Chester University, with closed judging as in prior years.
1985 Championships Awarded to Toronto — The NABBA Board of Directors voted to accept the invitation of the Weston Silver Band to hold the 1985 Championships in Toronto, Canada, though exact dates were not yet finalized.
1984 Championship Weekend Schedule Announced — The 1984 NABBA weekend at West Chester included a Friday symposium with clinicians Glenn Call and Terry Detwiller, a Saturday band contest, an open NABBA board meeting, an instrument raffle worth over $7,500, and a Gala Concert featuring the U.S. Army's Ceremonial Brass and Percussion under Capt. David H. Deitrick, Jr.
Texas Tech Spotlights British Brass Bands — Professor Richard 'Dick' Tolley of Texas Tech University presented an extensive overview of British brass band activity, conducting the Texas Tech Brass Band and giving a hugely popular clinic at the Texas Bandmasters Association Clinic-Concert.
Brass Band Activity in Colorado — Professor John Kincaid held a brass band workshop at Western State College in Gunnison with guest Bruce Borthwick of New Zealand's Hamilton Citizens Band, while Paul Maybery of the Great Western Band conducted a brass band festival in Silverton.
Sunshine Brass Thrives in Tampa Bay — Sunshine Brass, formed in March 1983 under conductor Karen Kneeburg, performed successfully throughout the Tampa Bay area and planned to travel to the North American Brass Band Championships, also visiting the Smoky Mountain Brass Band in Canton, NC.
Capitol English Brass Band Concerts in Salt Lake City — The Capitol English Brass Band, sponsored by Douglas Brown and conducted by John T. Wynn, a former member of Her Majesty's Scots Guard Regimental Band, performed two successful concerts in the renovated Assembly Hall on Temple Square.
Young Ambassadors Brass Band Plans US Tour — Frank Wolff announced that Britain's Young Ambassadors Brass Band, featuring soloists Michael Hext, Elaine Wolff, Steven Mead, and Marilyn Wolff, planned a concert tour of the eastern United States and Toronto in July 1984.
This inaugural-era issue announced the formal founding of the North American Brass Band Association in September 1983, listing its charter goals and first Board of Directors. It also covered a new audio-visual promotional show, debut concerts by the Bloomington and Gramercy brass bands, a preview of the 1984 Championships and Yamaha trophy, a new performance calendar column, and reader letters on band recruitment plus news from Canada's Chester Brass Band.
In this issue (7)
North American Brass Band Association Founded — A group of brass band enthusiasts met in Greensboro, North Carolina in September 1983 to establish The North American Brass Band Association, Inc., a non-profit corporation modeled on the British brass band tradition, with an initial Board of Directors elected.
Yamaha British Band Award and 1984 Championships Announced — The Yamaha Perpetual Trophy, held by the reigning Smoky Mountain British Brass Band, will be defended at the North American British Brass Band Championships scheduled for April 13-14, 1984 at West Chester State College, hosted by Dr. Kenneth Laudermilch.
Bloomington British Brass Band Launches with Concert — The newly formed 27-piece British Brass Band of Bloomington, Indiana debuted under conductor James Doyle with euphonium soloist Dr. Earle Louder, performing a demanding program of British brass band repertoire.
Gramercy Brass Makes Debut in New York City — Gramercy Brass of New York City, founded in November 1982, gave its debut performance on August 26, 1983 at Trinity Church's Noonday Cafe series to a crowd of over 700, conducted by Music Director John H. Lambert.
Strike Up the British Brass Band Audio-Visual Show Released — A new thirteen-minute tape/slide presentation about British-style brass bands in the UK and North America became available for rental to help promote and organize local bands.
Reader Letters on Band Recruitment — Les McKinnes of Fort Lauderdale and Dick Butler of Boyce, Virginia responded to a prior letter about player recruitment, debating whether public schools or dedicated church/community band programs are more effective at developing brass players.
Chester Brass Band Activities in Nova Scotia — Gordon McCowan detailed the Chester Brass Band's busy schedule including a 'Matinee for Brass' concert with soprano Jean Marshall, a joint concert with United Baptist Church, an annual dinner, a concert in Bridgewater, and entry into the Nova Scotia Kiwanis Music Festival.
This issue of The Brass Band Bridge (August 1985) reported on the Wenatchee British Brass Band's busy schedule of concerts, civic honors, and fundraising, alongside updates from Delta Brass Band, Humboldt Bay Brass Society, the newly renamed North State Silver Cornets, Sunshine Brass in Florida, and Rocky Mountain Brassworks. It also included correspondence about touring possibilities with Wingates Temperance Band and advocacy for brass bands in music education, plus news of a Desford Colliery Band record release and continued Yamaha sponsorship.
In this issue (8)
Wenatchee British Brass Band's busy season — The newly formed Wenatchee British Brass Band received enthusiastic public support, civic proclamations, and letters from the British Embassy, performing to large crowds at events like the Seattle Center, Grand Coulee Dam anniversary, and Wenatchee Apple Blossom Festival, while launching an 'Adopt-a-Tuba' fundraising program.
Delta Brass Band marks fourth year — The Delta Brass Band, conducted by John Maltester, completed its fourth year with growing audiences and increasingly difficult repertoire, performing with the LMC Trombone Choir.
Humboldt Bay Brass Society premieres new works — The Humboldt Bay Brass Society, conducted by Craig Naylor, gave premiere performances of new compositions including 'Fanfare, Interlude and Allegro' by Jerry Moore and Naylor's own 'Echoes Of The Wind'.
Greensboro band renamed North State Silver Cornets — The Greensboro British Brass Band changed its name to the North State Silver Cornets and performed an ambitious July Fourth program under the leadership of Tom Mords.
Sunshine Brass founded in Florida — Florida's first community brass band, Sunshine Brass, was incorporated in June 1985 under conductor Karen D. Kneeburg, growing out of Salvation Army youth band work and a college instrument loan.
Rocky Mountain Brassworks concerts draw crowds — Conductor Paul Curnow reported successful concerts for Rocky Mountain Brassworks, including a well-attended show at the Arvada Arts Center and a performance for 2,000 people at the Colorado Folklore Festival.
Wingates Temperance Band seeks US tour contacts — Secretary Geoff Rouse of Wingates Temperance Band wrote seeking American contacts and possible partnerships to arrange a US tour for the British band.
Desford Colliery Band releases championship album — Two-Ten Records released 'Champion of Champions' featuring the Desford Colliery Dowty Band under Howard Snell, celebrating their record-setting championship year.
This issue reported on the inaugural North American British Brass Band Championships held in Pittsburgh, where the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band won the Championship Section and the Salvation Army New York Staff Band performed a gala concert. It also detailed the founding meeting that laid groundwork for a North American brass band organization, along with news from various member bands and new music resources.
In this issue (8)
Smoky Mountain British Brass Band wins first NABBA Championships — At the first North American British Brass Band Championships, the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band, conducted by Richard Trevarthen, won the Championship Section with 92 points, ahead of runner-up Weston Silver Band of Ontario conducted by Douglas Field; the test piece was Gordon Langford's 'Sinfonietta.'
Second Section results at inaugural Championships — The North Carolina State University British Brass Band, conducted by J. Perry Watson, won the Second Section with 87 points, followed by the Rockville Brass Band (Dr. Ernest Wolfle) and Wilson Community British Brass Band (Dr. Andrew Preston); the test piece was Malcolm Arnold's 'Little Suite For Brass, Op. 80.'
Salvation Army New York Staff Band gala concert — The Salvation Army New York Staff Band, conducted by Derek Smith, gave a stunning gala concert following the Championships, performing works including 'March Praise,' 'To The Great Musician,' and 'Widdicombe Fair.'
Founding meeting establishes North American brass band organization — Leaders from Canada and the United States met in Pittsburgh, hosted by the River City Brass Band, to lay groundwork for a new organization to promote amateur brass bands, naming Douglas Field and Robert Bernat as acting co-chairmen and Perry Watson as acting secretary.
Greensboro British Brass Band debuts in Non-Competitive Section — Only a few months old, the Greensboro British Brass Band, conducted by Ken Mace, gave an impressive non-competitive performance at the Championships that drew praise from the audience and judges.
Rocky Mountain Brassworks activities — Conductor Paul Curnow reported that the Rocky Mountain Brassworks band was thriving with 36 bandsmen, having performed for Princess Anne in Denver and at the Colorado Bandmasters Association Concert Band Festival.
US Army Band forms new British brass band — The United States Army Band formed a British-style brass band called 'The Ceremonial Brass and Percussion' under Captain David H. Deitrick, Jr., presenting several concerts featuring works like 'The Holy War' and 'A Moorside Suite.'
Capitol English Brass Band news from Salt Lake City — The Capitol English Brass Band reported conductor Jack Wynn's return after eye surgery, a concert featuring vocalist Glenn Crow and tuba soloist Rollie Held, and the release of a new color brochure to promote the band.
This early issue of The Brass Band Bridge detailed plans for the first North American British Brass Band Championships, to be held at North Carolina State University with the New York Salvation Army Staff Band as guest performers. It also profiled composer Stephen Bulla, reported on various band concerts and recordings, and gave an update on the founding of the Wenatchee British Brass Band.
In this issue (7)
First North American British Brass Band Championships — NABBA announced test-pieces, prizes, and details for the first North American British Brass Band Championships to be held on April 23, 1988 at North Carolina State University, with the New York Salvation Army Staff Band as guest performers.
Spotlight on Composer Stephen Bulla — The issue profiled composer and U.S. Marine Band staff arranger Stephen Bulla, detailing his musical education, Salvation Army background, and successful brass band compositions such as 'A Festive Prelude' and 'Widdicombe Fair.'
Brass Band Workshop in Colorado — John Kincaid announced a brass band workshop at Western State College of Colorado in Gunnison for June 27-July 1, 1988, featuring guest instructor Bruce Borthwick from New Zealand.
Glenn K. Call Featured Soloist in England — American euphonium player Glenn K. Call performed as soloist with the Vickers Barrow Works Band in a celebrity concert broadcast by BBC Radio Cumbria.
University of Illinois Brass Band Concerts — The University of Illinois Brass Band, conducted by James Curnow, presented two well-attended fall concerts featuring works by Langford, Gregson, Holst, and others, with soloists including Don Lang, Steve Anderson, and Dan Vinson.
Weston Silver Band Concert Series — The Weston Silver Band of Ontario, conducted by Douglas Field, presented an ambitious concert program and reported forming a new group, the Toronto Versatile Brass ensemble.
Wenatchee British Brass Band Formation — The Wenatchee British Brass Band described its formation process, including a rehearsal without instruments, and announced a 'lighting ceremony' on January 9, 1983 to introduce new Boosey & Hawkes instruments, with a new National Board of Advisors established.
Issue 10 (October 1982) of The Brass Band Bridge detailed preparations for the first North American Brass Band Championships scheduled for April 1983 at North Carolina State University, with sponsorship from Boosey & Hawkes, Schweppes, Yamaha, C.G. Conn, and Selmer. It also reported on the founding of new brass bands including the Wenatchee British Brass Band, profiled the Highland British Band's history, and shared results from British Open and New Zealand contests.
Issue 9 (July 1982) of The Brass Band Bridge announced plans for the first North American British Brass Band Championships to be held in Raleigh, North Carolina in April 1983, with guidance from British Bandsman editor Peter Wilson. The issue also covered the New York Staff Band's world tour, and gave updates from several North American brass bands including Chester Brass Band, Metropolitan Silver Band, Capitol English Brass Band, Weston Silver Band, and the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band.
In this issue (8)
First NABBB Championships Planned for 1983 — The Founding Committee, aided by British Bandsman editor Peter Wilson, planned the first North American British Brass Band Championships at North Carolina State University in Raleigh for April 23, 1983.
New York Staff Band World Tour — The Salvation Army's New York Staff Band, under Bandmaster Derek Smith, embarked on a world tour to Norway, Sweden, Australia, and New Zealand celebrating 95 years of the band's history.
Chester Brass Band Reorganization Success — A year after reorganizing under conductor Gordon McGowan, the Chester Brass Band gained international recognition and performed a premiere of Eric Ball's Divertimento with the Aeolian Singers in a festival concert.
Metropolitan Silver Band Celebrates 50th Anniversary — The Metropolitan Silver Band of Toronto, originally a church band, celebrated its fiftieth anniversary and shared a new recording with the newsletter.
Capitol English Brass Band Spring Concerts — The Capitol English Brass Band of Salt Lake City performed at the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Armed Forces Day events, with tuba soloist Roland Held featured, under conductor Jack Wynn.
Weston Silver Band Update — The Weston Silver Band of Ontario reported personnel changes including new euphoniumist Ron Williams, a busy performance schedule, and a well-received University of Toronto Brass Choir concert sponsored by Boosey & Hawkes.
Smoky Mountain British Brass Band's First Year — Manager Bert Wiley reflected on the band's growth over its first year, including over twenty performances and participation in the Fifth Annual British Band Festival at NCSU.
British Band Workshops Held Across US — Summer brass band workshops were held by John Kincaid in Colorado, Robert Bernat and the River City Brass Band in Pittsburgh with guest Roy Newsome, and at North Carolina State University.
Issue 8 (April 1982) of The Brass Band Bridge thanked Yamaha Musical Products Corporation for underwriting several issues of the newsletter and offered fund-raising ideas for bands. It profiled several American British-style brass bands including the Capitol English Brass Band, University of Illinois Brass Band, Oshawa Civic Band, and the newly renamed Rocky Mountain Brass Works, plus news of British Week at the World's Fair in Knoxville and record/course recommendations from England.
Issue 7 (January 1982) of The Brass Band Bridge profiled conductor James Curnow of the University of Illinois Brass Band and reported on Robert Bernat's newly founded professional River City Brass Band in Pittsburgh. The issue also featured updates from several North American brass bands including the Buffalo Silver Brass Band, Capital English Brass Band, Whitby Brass Band, Smoky Mountain British Brass Band, Chester Brass Band, and Colorado brass band activities led by John Kincaid, plus a note on imported Chester Music brass band scores and the Marlborough College Sounding Brass course.
In this issue (8)
James Curnow Featured as Conductor — James Curnow, conductor of the University of Illinois Brass Band and prolific composer, was profiled as the issue's featured conductor, highlighting his academic background and numerous compositions and awards.
River City Brass Band Makes Professional Debut — Robert Bernat founded the River City Brass Band in Pittsburgh, believed to be the first professional British-style brass band in the country in many years, which made its concert debut on November 21 with an advisory committee including Andre Previn and Roy Newsome.
Capital English Brass Band Concert at Mormon Tabernacle — The Capital English Brass Band, founded by Doug Brown and conducted by Jack Wynn with new assistant director Cecil Garrison, performed a successful concert at the Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City and expressed interest in organizing a regional brass band contest.
Buffalo Silver Brass Band Marks Long History — The Buffalo Silver Brass Band, over 65 years old and conducted by Herman Erbacher, held a combined concert with the Newfane Senior High School Band, with Nelson Starr performing as soprano cornet soloist.
Whitby Brass Band's Long Heritage — The Whitby Brass Band of Ontario, conducted by Roland Hill, traced its roots to town band photographs from 1885, with Hill recently having competed at the National Brass Band Championships at Royal Albert Hall in London.
Chester Brass Band Changes Leadership — The Chester Brass Band of Nova Scotia, founded in 1906, welcomed new bandmaster Gordon McGowan succeeding Harvey Nauss, who had served 45 years, and announced plans to expand membership and form a junior band.
Colorado Brass Bands Led by John Kincaid — John Kincaid directed both the Denver Brass Works and the Colorado Brass Band, presenting concerts as part of college workshops, with plans to attend the Marlborough Sounding Brass Course in England.
Imported Brass Band Music with Bass Clef Parts — Magna Music-Baton began importing Chester Music brass band scores from London with newly added bass clef parts for trombones, euphoniums, baritones, and tubas, making them more accessible to American ensembles.
This issue featured a detailed American report on the Sounding Brass course at Marlborough College, England, where US and Canadian brass players trained with British conductors and soloists. It also reported the final British Open Championship held at Belle Vue's Kings Hall, National Championship results at Royal Albert Hall, and European Championship results, alongside news of new American brass bands forming at Wilson, North Carolina and the University of Illinois.
In this issue (7)
American Report on Marlborough's Sounding Brass Course — Dr. Douglas Smith described the two-week Sounding Brass course at Marlborough College, England, where American and Canadian brass players studied with British conductors including Edward Gregson and Roy Newsome, using new Boosey & Hawkes instruments provided for the workshop.
Final British Open Championship at Belle Vue's Kings Hall — The British Open Championship was held for the last time at Belle Vue's Kings Hall in Manchester after 128 years of contesting, with City of Coventry under Major Arthur Kenney taking first place performing Variations on a Ninth by Gilbert Vinter.
National Championship Results at Royal Albert Hall — Black Dyke Mills Band under Major Peter Parkes won the National Championship at the Royal Albert Hall in London, performing the required selection Bliti by Derek Bourgeois.
European Championship Results — Brighouse and Rastrick from England, conducted by James Scott, won the European Championship, performing the required piece Caliban by Arthur Butterworth along with own-choice selections from competing nations.
New Brass Bands Forming in the United States — The Wilson Community British Brass Band in North Carolina and The University of Illinois Brass Band under James Curnow were newly established, reflecting growing American interest in British-style brass banding.
Fifth Annual British Brass Band Jubilee Announced — The fifth annual British Brass Band Jubilee was scheduled for April 24, 1982 at North Carolina State University, featuring individual band performances and a massed band finale, with the North and South Carolina Divisional Salvation Army Band expected to participate.
National Band of New Zealand Tour Planned for 1985 — Ernie Omrod reported that John Harrison would organize a new National Band of New Zealand tour in 1985, inviting interested parties in the US and Canada to contact him.
This 1981 issue profiled conductor Douglas Field of the Weston Silver Band and reported on the rapid growth of British-style brass bands across the U.S. and Canada, including new bands, workshops, and the Fourth Annual Brass Band Festival at North Carolina State University. It also floated the idea of forming a North American association of British brass bands to support the movement's development.
In this issue (8)
Featured Conductor: Douglas Field of Weston Silver Band — Douglas Field, a Salvation Army-trained cornetist from Grimsby, England, was profiled as conductor of the Weston Silver Band of Ontario, which released its first album 'Weston Road' for its 60th anniversary and commissioned a centennial march by William Broughton for the Town of Weston.
Fourth Annual Brass Band Festival at NC State — The festival held at North Carolina State University featured the Weston Silver Band, Salvation Army divisional and youth bands, and the NC State University British Brass Band in a massed band finale, with plans to hold the event there once more before considering a new location.
British Brass Bands Showcase at NC State — A showcase funded by the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation brought together 26 brass players under guest conductor Denzil Stephens of the Cory Band, with British Bandsman editor Peter Wilson giving a talk on the international brass band movement; British Embassy cultural attache Hugh Crooke also attended.
New Bands Formed: Hartford and Florida — Jeff Schultz founded the 28-member Hartford British Brass band at the Hartt School of Music, while C. William Bailey initiated plans for a brass band at Broward Community College in Florida.
Premiere of the National Brass in Washington D.C. — The newly formed National Brass, conducted by Tim Foley, gave its premiere concert including the first performance of Stephen Bulla's 'A Festive Prelude' and featured Glenn Call as euphonium soloist.
Smoky Mountain British Brass Band Debut Concert — Formerly the Waynesville British Brass Band, this newly renamed ensemble gave its first concert at Western Carolina College under conductor Richard Trevarthen as part of a Yamaha-sponsored pilot project.
Colorado Brass Band Workshops Announced — John Kincaid of Western State College organized two one-week brass band workshops in Gunnison and Denver, Colorado, aimed at giving musicians experience performing contest and concert brass band literature.
Call for a North American Brass Band Association — Editor J. Perry Watson proposed forming a nonprofit North American association of British brass bands to support new band formation, organize contests, and coordinate the growing movement.
This September 1980 issue of The Brass Band Bridge reported on early North American brass band activity, including a growing registry of British-style brass bands, the British Brass Band Short Course held at North Carolina State University, and plans for a 1981 summer course at the University of Lancaster. It also featured a profile of Canada's Weston Silver Band celebrating its 60th anniversary, updates on new music publications with bass clef parts, and editor J. Perry Watson's vision for regional "brass band centers" in the United States.
In this issue (8)
British Brass Band Short Course at NCSU — A two-day short course held at North Carolina State University drew 37 participants from several states to study British brass band repertoire, scoring, and performance practice, with instruction from Richard Trevarthen and others.
1981 Summer Brass Band Course Announced — Plans were finalized for a North Carolina State University-sponsored summer brass band course to be taught by British brass band experts at the University of Lancaster from July 15 to August 25, 1981, coinciding with an international conductors' conference in Manchester.
Weston Silver Band's 60th Anniversary — Canada's Weston Silver Band, founded in 1920 as a boys' band, celebrated its 60th anniversary with a souvenir recording, a clinic day with composer Edward Gregson, and a reunion weekend concert.
New Brass Band Music Series with Bass Clef Parts — Composer Jim Curnow announced the upcoming 'Studio Brass Band Series' from Studio P/R Inc., addressing long-standing demand for bass clef instrumental parts to help grow American brass bands.
Colorado Brass Band Activity — John Kincaid of Western State College of Colorado described organizing the Colorado Brass Band, which performed for the Colorado Music Educators Convention and continued as a summer ensemble.
National Brass Band of New Zealand Tour Dates — Additional U.S. tour dates were announced for the National Brass Band of New Zealand, including stops in Utah, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Pennsylvania.
Brass Band Registry Expands — The newsletter published an expanded list of British-style brass bands across North America along with contact information for their conductors, aiming to build a national network.
Vision for Brass Band Centers — Editor J. Perry Watson proposed establishing regional brass band 'centers' offering lending libraries, festivals, contests, and clinics to help grow the American brass band movement toward a national championship structure.
This second issue of The Brass Band Bridge (June 1980) reported on the founding of two new British-style brass bands in North Carolina sponsored through Yamaha's instrument leasing program, along with news from correspondents across the US and UK. It also covered plans for a 1981 NC State summer brass band course in England, contacts with British brass band organizations, and practical discussion of transposing British music parts for American players.
In this issue (8)
Two North Carolina Pilot Brass Bands Formed — Yamaha International Corporation partnered with local music dealers to sponsor two new British-style brass bands in North Carolina, one in Waynesville conducted by Dick Trevarthen and one in Fayetteville organized by Earle Braunhardt with Black and Decker's support.
Yamaha's Role in American Brass Band Movement — Yamaha International Corporation issued a statement explaining its interest in supporting British-style brass bands in the US, citing its complete line of brass band instruments and international markets where such bands flourish.
English-Speaking Union Offers Support to Brass Bands — The English-Speaking Union, founded in 1920 by Sir Evelyn Wrench, expressed interest in helping sponsor and promote British-type brass bands in the US, following a successful concert by the North Carolina State University Brass Band for its Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill branch.
NC State Summer Brass Band Course in England Planned — Roy Newsome was lining up prominent British instructors including Harry Mortimer, Elgar Howarth, Edward Gregson, and John Fletcher for a North Carolina State University Brass Band summer course in England scheduled for July-August 1981.
Capital English Brass Band's Elephant Encounter — The Capital Brass Band of Salt Lake City, founded by Douglas Brown Sr. and conducted by Jack Wynn, gave a memorable outdoor concert at Hogle Zoo that agitated an elephant used for children's rides.
Glenn K. Call's British Performances with US Marine Band — Euphonium soloist Glenn K. Call of the U.S. Marine Band performed and lectured in Great Britain, including soloing with the Redbridge Youth Brass Band under Colin Handley and directing their Christmas course.
New Brass Bands and Correspondents Reported — Letters arrived from Jon Asgeirsson describing the Reading Brass Band in Massachusetts and from Jim Mosher about the 15-year-old Onondaga Community College Brass Sinfonia, highlighting growing grassroots interest in British-style brass bands across the US.
Transposition of British Brass Parts Discussed — J. Perry Watson discussed the practical challenge of using treble clef parts from British publishers for trombone and tuba, describing his university's effort to transpose 45 selections to bass clef and proposing a shared resource for other American bands.
J. Perry Watson launched a first newsletter to connect American brass band enthusiasts and begin compiling a national registry, with early support and music offers from Boosey & Hawkes in London.
