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Brass Band of the Western Reserve
Ohio
About
Formed in 1997, the Brass Band of the Western Reserve is an award-winning British-style brass band performing a wide variety of music at the highest possible standard of performance. The Brass Band of the Western Reserve is the premier brass band of Northeast Ohio. Based in Medina, the ensemble brings together some of northeast Ohio's finest musicians to perform traditional British brass band music along with classical, jazz and popular selections. The band is a diverse group of musicians from a broad spectrum of professions, including music educators, music students, bankers, lawyers and many other professions. Members are volunteers, and membership is by audition. Originally known as the Cuyahoga Valley Brass Band, the band held its first reading session on August 14, 1997 and its first concert on April 4, 1998 at The First Congregational Church of Akron. Known for its high-energy performances and commitment to musical excellence, the band presents an annual Concert Series at the Medina Performing Arts Center.
Musical Director
Jay Wardeska
Jay Wardeska was named Music Director of the Brass Band of the Western Reserve in March 2022. Wardeska has been a band conductor and active trumpet player in the state of Ohio for more than 30 years. He holds a Master of Music in Instrumental Conducting from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Mount Union. He was named the 2013 National Band Director of the Year by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and the U.S. Army Band. Jay currently serves as the Executive Director of the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA).
NABBA Results History (5)
| Section | Best Finish |
|---|---|
| Championship | 3rd |
| Event | Section | Place | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dublin Festival of Brass | Open Competition | — | — | |
| NABBA Championships 2007 | Championship | 7th | 256.200 | |
| NABBA Championships 2006 | Championship | 3rd | 277.800 | |
| NABBA Championships 2005 | Championship | 5th | 246.200 | |
| NABBA Championships 2004 | Championship | 4th | 262.800 |