Kansas City, Missouri —
The US Masters Brass Band Championships returned to Staley High School this weekend, hosted with efficiency and warm hospitality by the Fountain City Brass Band. Six ensembles made the journey to Kansas City for a day of spirited competition, new repertoire, and a reaffirmation of the growing depth of American brass banding.
Dallas Brass Band Claims Division 1 Title
Dallas Brass Band produced a well-structured and confident performance that earned them first place in Division 1, supported by their percussion team’s win in the Outstanding Percussion category. Their musical consistency across the day ultimately secured the top spot.
Division 1 Results
Dallas Brass Band
Frontier Brass Band
Iowa Brass
Frontier Brass Band Impresses Across the Awards Table
In addition to securing second place, Frontier Brass Band made one of the strongest impressions of the weekend, collecting a notable slate of individual honors and the Most Entertaining Band award. Frontier took home:
Most Entertaining Band
Outstanding Soloist (Trombone)
Outstanding Soprano
Outstanding Cornet
Outstanding Trombone
Their program blended character, color, and technical assurance — traits that clearly resonated with both judges and audiences.
Iowa Brass and Tulsa Shine in Section Awards
Iowa Brass, finishing third in Division 1, earned three key accolades:
Outstanding Flugelhorn
Outstanding Baritone
Outstanding Euphonium
Meanwhile, Tulsa Brass Band, competing in Division 2, won Outstanding Bass Section, highlighting the ensemble’s strong foundation and cohesive sound.
Division 2 Results
Fountain City United
Free State Brass Band
Tulsa Brass Band
Competing on home ground, Fountain City United delivered a poised, well-balanced performance to claim top honors in Division 2, ahead of determined challenges from Free State Brass Band and Tulsa Brass Band.
Grant Jameson’s Friska Inferno Awarded Outstanding New Work
A standout feature of the weekend was the recognition of Grant Jameson’s arrangement of Friska Inferno as Outstanding New Work. Electrifying, virtuosic, and full of rhythmic drive, the piece captured the audience’s attention and provided one of the day’s most memorable musical highlights.
A Weekend of Connection and Craft
As always, the US Masters showcased more than competition — it reaffirmed the camaraderie, creativity, and shared enthusiasm that define the American brass band movement. With strong participation and rising standards across both divisions, the event continues to grow as a centerpiece of the national banding calendar.
The next US Masters will take place November 15th, 2026.
Silver Anniversary Season
Houston Brass Band PRESS RELEASE
The Houston Brass Band (HBB) has been a vital part of the cultural landscape in Houston for 25 years. Last year alone the Houston Brass Band reached an estimated 6,025 members of the Houston community. This year will be celebrated as the Silver Anniversary Season through special performances and events. Among highlights of the events planned for this season is an October performance in Round Top, Texas featuring Schilke Music performing artist Morris Northcutt. HBB will perform a joint concert in November with the Galveston Symphony Orchestra. This event will include a world premiere of “Crossings,” a new work celebrating the bicentennial of Norwegian immigration to America. The piece by Rodney Newton was originally commissioned by Russell Gray in 2005 and titled, “Longships.” Learning of the special occasion of our 2025 celebration, Rodney revised and retitled the piece. The band will also perform in March, in Dallas, as a part of Texas Brass Fest. There is a 25
th Anniversary Concert in April at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Houston. HBB has commissioned a new march for the occasion from composer Dr. William Brusick. The winner of the 2024 student solo competition will also be featured.
HBB’s mission is to inspire and engage a diverse Houston audience with the unique British brass band sound. Throughout its history HBB has also supported the education of young musicians by collaborating with school music programs. HBB has engaged internationally acclaimed musicians and shared their talents with the community through performances, side by side concerts, and clinics in schools. The HBB has also awarded scholarships to student musicians through the annual solo competition for the past 10 years.
HBB has performed at venues and events such as POST Houston 4th of July Celebrations, Houston Public Library Family Winter Festivals, Houston Make Music Day, Houston City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic, Houston, Public Radio broadcast, Houston Turkish Festival, British Consulate of Houston events, Grand Opening of Houston’s James Driver All-Inclusive Park, British American Foundation of Texas Gala, Saint Arnold’s Brewery, No Label Brewery, and numerous churches. In 2021, the band placed 3rd in the First Section of the international Whit Friday competition, HBB has been featured on Houston Public Radio Encore Houston in July of 2022. The band was also featured in a Scottish radio broadcast, “Sounds of Brass,” in 2024. The band has performed at the Texas Band Masters Association Conference in San Antonio, TX. A photo journal of activities of the band over the past 3 seasons is available at our website: www. houstonbrassband.org under the blog menu.
HBB was awarded a grant this year from the Cullen Foundation in order to expand our outreach through performances and educational activities in the Houston area. The Mary Louise Dobson Foundation also recently awarded HBB funds to support the instrumental music programs at Wharton Senior High and Wharton Junior High schools. HBB members will provide master classes at these rural, Title 1 campuses this school year. For the past 2 years The Houston Arts Alliance has provided grant support for HBB to present free concerts in downtown Houston at the Public Library Family Winter Festival.
Click here to visit the Houston Brass Band Website
Click here to go to the Houston Brass Band YouTube Channel
Click here to view the Crossings Celebration Concert
2025 NABBC: A Resounding Success
Triumph in Fort Wayne: NABBA Championships 2025 Celebrate Excellence in Brass
The 2025 North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) Championships in Fort Wayne delivered a weekend of powerful performances, friendly rivalry, and unforgettable musical moments. As one of the premier events for brass bands in North America, this year’s championships drew a record number of ensembles and showcased the extraordinary depth of talent that continues to rise across the continent.
Championship Section: An Elite Display
At the top level of competition, the Championship Section was fierce, polished, and filled with musical fire. The Fountain City Brass Band once again proved its dominance, taking 1st place with a commanding score of 96.967, demonstrating breathtaking precision and artistry. Five Lakes Silver Band followed with a strong 2nd place (93.983), while Dallas Brass Band—in only their third appearance in Championship Section at NABBA—claimed an impressive 3rd place with 93.833, with a performance that was both technically sound and emotionally resonant.
The remainder of the top-tier field was stacked with top-notch performances from ensembles like James Madison University Brass Band (4th, 93.233), Atlantic Brass Band (5th, 92.433), and San Francisco Brass Band (6th, 89.233), among others, proving that the Championship Section remains a thrilling battleground for the best of the best.
Tied at the Top in 1st Section
In a rare and exciting twist, the 1st Section ended in a tie for 1st place between Dublin Silver Band and Oakland University Brass Band, both scoring 92.283. Dublin edged ahead by virtue of a higher score on the set test piece. San Antonio Brass Band earned a strong 3rd place (91.817), rounding out a highly competitive section that included standout performances from Colorado Brass, Brass Band of Northern Virginia, and more.
Rising Stars in 2nd and 3rd Sections
The 2nd Section saw Massanutten Brass Band take top honors with 91.950, closely followed by St. Louis Brass Band (90.717) and Central Ohio Brass Band (90.133). The variety and commitment on display in this section highlighted the strength of developing bands and their contributions to the larger brass band ecosystem.
In the 3rd Section, Cherry Blossom Brass Band rose to the top with 85.700, edging out youth-focused ensembles like the Fountain City Youth Brass Academy and Motor City Academy Brass Band, both of which showcased the promise of the next generation.
Youth Division: A Bright Future
The Youth divisions were a celebration of energy, learning, and future excellence. Youth Brass Academy topped the Youth Open Section with an impressive 94.000, while Watson Brass Band led the Youth Championship Section (91.567) and Triangle Youth Brass Band triumphed in the Youth 1st Section (89.233). It’s clear that the future of brass banding is in good hands.
A Resounding Celebration
From the riveting contest performances to the reunions, workshops, and vendor showcases, the NABBA Championships in Fort Wayne were a true celebration of brass band culture. It wasn’t just about scores—it was about the joy of making music together, the friendships formed across state and national borders, and the shared commitment to the genre’s continued growth in North America.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on an unforgettable weekend, the momentum from Fort Wayne continues to build. Congratulations to all the bands—especially our top performers—and a heartfelt thank you to the organizers, volunteers, adjudicators, and audience members who made it all possible. Here’s to even greater things next year when we return to Fort Wayne!
Click here for the scores from NABBC 2025
Click here to re-watch NABBC Performances
2025 Band Lineup: A New Milestone
The NABBA Championships are experiencing an exciting milestone, with more bands competing this year than ever before! This remarkable growth reflects the dedication of musicians, conductors, and supporters who continue to elevate brass banding in North America. As the competition expands, so does the opportunity for connection, inspiration, and musical excellence. Whether a seasoned competitor or a first-time participant, every band is part of this historic moment. Here’s to a thrilling championship filled with unforgettable performances and the spirit of brass banding at its finest!
Here are the 41 bands competing this year:
Atlantic Brass BandBrass Band of Central FloridaBrass Band of Northern VirginiaCapital City Brass BandCarlisle Brass BandCentral Ohio Brass BandCherry Blossom Brass BandChicago Brass BandCincinnati Brass BandColorado BrassDallas Brass BandDublin Metro BrassDublin Silver BandDublin Youth Brass BandFive Lakes Silver BandFountain City Brass BandFountain City Youth Brass AcademyIllinois Brass BandInstant BandJames Madison University Brass BandMadison Brass BandMassanutten Brass BandMilwaukee Festival BrassMotor City Academy Brass BandMotor City Brass BandOakland University Brass BandOld Crown Brass BandOrillia Silver BandPrinceton Brass BandRiver BrassSan Antonio Brass BandSan Francisco Brass BandSt. Louis Brass BandTampa Brass BandTriangle Youth Academy Brass BandTriangle Youth Brass BandUpper Canada BrassWatson Brass BandWeston Silver BandWilmington Virtuosi BrassYouth Brass Academy (Huntsville)
Good luck to all bands and safe travels to bands and supporters alike!
NABBC 2025 Own-Choice Repertoire
The NABBA Championships 2025 Own Choice selections have been revealed, offering a thrilling glimpse into the musical challenges that await this year’s competitors. Each band has carefully chosen a work that showcases their technical brilliance, musical depth, and artistic interpretation. From bold contemporary showpieces to sweeping cinematic scores, this diverse lineup highlights the extraordinary skill and passion within the North American brass band community.
A Brief Symphony of Time Simon Dobson
A Brussels Requiem Bert Appermont
Arkansas Jacob de Haan
Bipolar Stijn Aertgeerts
Brass Triumphant Gareth Wood
The Dark Side of the Moon Paul Lovatt-Cooper
Dynasty Peter Graham
English Heritage George Lloyd
Excalibur Jan Van Der Roost
Facets of the Heart Tom Davoren
Four Cities Symphony Rodney Newton
Horrorshow Simon Dobson
Hypercube Oliver Waespi
Images for Brass Stephen Bulla
Inspiration Jan de Haan
Kingdom of Dragons Philip Harper
Malaika Bob Munson
The Mermaid of Zennor Philip Harper
Of Distant Memories Edward Gregson
The Patriots Jan de Haan
The Plantagenets Edward Gregson
Queen of the Underworld Chris Hines
The Raid Oliver Waespi
Red Priest Philip Wilby
Revelation Philip Wilby
Rhapsody on St. Francis Andrew Wainwright
Salome Gareth Wood
Sinfonietta No. 3 Etienne Crausaz
St. Austell Suite Kenneth Downie
St. James – A New Beginning Philip Harper
Uncharted Lands J. Thomas Banks
Valerius Variations Philip Sparke
Viking Age Thierry Deleruyelle
The World Rejoicing Edward Gregson
Wychavon Sketches Dan Price
Z 1920 Peter Graham
With selections spanning the brilliance of Philip Sparke, the drama of Peter Graham, the cinematic sweep of Paul Lovatt-Cooper, and the symphonic grandeur of Edward Gregson, this year’s competition promises an unforgettable display of brass band excellence. These masterworks will come to life in performances that test every facet of ensemble playing, from soaring melodic lines to electrifying virtuosity. As the competition approaches, excitement builds to hear how each band will bring their chosen piece to the stage!
Dublin Festival of Brass: Thrills Audiences with Outstanding Performances!
On March 22, the Dublin Jerome Performing Arts Center was alive with the sound of brass music as ten bands gathered from three states for a spectacular day of music-making at the 2025 Dublin Festival of Brass. The event, known for its spirit of camaraderie and musical excellence, showcased an expanded selection of repertoire, allowing bands to demonstrate their versatility and artistry like never before.
This year’s format offered bands the opportunity to select two pieces from a variety of options, including a fanfare, slow melody, solo or section feature, and march. Each band also performed a major work, adding to the excitement and diversity of the program. The result was an incredible display of musicianship, with each ensemble bringing their unique style and interpretation to the stage.
The elite section saw fierce competition, but it was Five Lakes Silver Band that emerged victorious, claiming the prestigious Droste Shield. During the awards ceremony, Diana Droste Herak, daughter of the trophy’s namesake Dr. Paul Droste, presented the shield, celebrating her father’s ongoing contributions to brass banding and his lasting impact on the community. The challenge section was won by Motor City Brass Band, making for a unique and heartwarming twist—their directors are father and son, adding an extra layer of pride and celebration to their achievements. Each section also featured an extremely competitive runner-up spot, highlighting the depth of talent on display.
On Friday night before the Droste Shield Competition, the DFOB adjudicators led an open reading band that previewed music from the newly-revived NABBA Instant Band. Dr. Ishbah Cox, Gareth Pritchard, and Jessica Sneeringer served as Saturday’s adjudicators, offering valuable feedback to all the bands. Using the NABBA scoring system, they provided thorough evaluations that will help ensembles refine their performances as they prepare for the upcoming North American Brass Band Championships in early April.
The youth section was a particular highlight, with the Dublin Youth Brass Band giving a stellar performance as they prepare for their first-ever trip to the NABBC in Ft. Wayne, IN. The DYBB featured the festival’s youngest performer, just 11 years old, exemplifying the bright future of brass banding and the dedication of young musicians.
This year’s festival was the first to be presented by the new Dublin Festival of Brass committee, who worked tirelessly to make the event a success. The organizers extend their heartfelt thanks to the many sponsors, volunteers, and participants whose support and dedication made the day possible.
The energy and enthusiasm of the participants were palpable throughout the event, from the first notes of the morning to the triumphant finales. Players, directors, and audience members alike expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to perform, connect, and celebrate the art of brass banding.
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Individual/Section Award Winners:
Best soprano cornet: Motor City Brass Band
Best cornet section: Five Lakes Silver Band
Best flugelhorn: Five Lakes Silver Band
Best tenor horn section: Five Lakes Silver Band
Best baritone section: Cincinnati Brass Band
Best euphonium: Five Lakes Silver Band
Best trombone: Bass trombone, Oakland University Brass Band
Best bass section: Motor City Brass Band
Best percussion section: Five Lakes Silver Band
Best youth players: Horn & flugelhorn section, Dublin Youth Brass Band
Youngest performer: Sam B., 11 years old, Dublin Youth Brass Band
Full Band Awards:
Best performance of a march in the challenge section: Motor City Brass Band
Best performance of a slow melody in the challenge section: Motor City Brass Band
Best performance of a fanfare in the challenge section: Crossroads Brass Band
Best performance of a solo or section feature in the challenge section: Dublin Metro Brass
Best performance of a major work in the challenge section: Motor City Brass Band
Best performance of a march in the elite section: Oakland University Brass Band
Best performance of a slow melody in the elite section: Five Lakes Silver Band
Best performance of a fanfare in the elite section: Five Lakes Silver Band
Best performance of a major work in the elite section: Five Lakes Silver Band
Overall Awards:
Best youth band: Dublin Youth Brass Band
Second runner-up in the challenge section with 87.313 points: Cincinnati Brass Band
First runner-up in the challenge section with 87.792 points: River’s’ Edge Brass Band
Best challenge section band with 90.042 points: Motor City Brass Band
Overall 3rd place with 92.104 points: Dublin Silver Band
Overall 2nd place with 92.854 points: Oakland University Brass Band
2025 Dublin Festival of Brass Champions with 96.625 points: Five Lakes Silver Band
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With another successful festival in the books, anticipation is already building for next year’s event. The DFOB was a resounding success, a testament to the dedication and passion of the performers, organizers, and adjudicators who made it all possible.
Be sure to follow the Dublin Festival of Brass on social media for updates about DFOB 2026, and to stay connected with the brass band community!
Here’s to another year of outstanding brass music!
Texas Brass Festival: A Rousing Success!
The Texas Brass Festival has officially cemented itself as a must-attend event for brass musicians and enthusiasts alike! Hosted at the Carroll Performing Arts Center in Southlake, Texas, this year’s festival was an overwhelming success, bringing together top-tier brass bands, soloists, and vendors for a day filled with exceptional music, camaraderie, and friendly competition.
A Showcase of Talent
Nine bands from Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas competed in the 3rd annual Texas Brass Festival—five more than in 2024—demonstrating the growing excitement surrounding this event. The competing bands included:
Austin Brass Band
Dallas Brass Band
Frontier Brass Band
Houston Brass Band
Natural State Brass Band
San Antonio Brass Band
Tulsa Brass Band
Dallas Youth Brass Band (HS)
Dallas Youth Brass Band (MS)
Festival Competition Results:
Bell’s Best March Contest:
Winner: Dallas Brass Band – O.R.B. / C. Anderson (arr. T. Cresswell)
Runner-Up: Frontier Brass Band – Knight Templar / G. Allan
Houghton’s Slow Melody Contest:
Winner: Dallas Brass Band – Remointze / L. Neurohr
Runner-Up: Frontier Brass Band – Light of the World / J.D. Goffin
Recognizing Outstanding Musicians
Our NABBA judges, Amanda Drinkwater, David Childs, and Suzanne Dell, and Tony Granados would like to recognize the following outstanding soloists and sections from each band:
Austin Brass Band
Principal Cornet – Brian M. Carr
Flugelhorn – Allison Morris
Percussionist – Conor Nolan
Frontier Brass Band
Principal Cornet – Ryan Sharp
Flugelhorn – Jared VanVickle
Solo Eb Horn – Sara Riester
Principal Euphonium – Candice Neel
Houston Brass Band
Flugelhorn – Jason Browne
Solo Eb Horn – Dayne Delahoussaye
Tulsa Brass Band
Principal Cornet – Scott Williams
Principal Euphonium – Christopher Rondeau
San Antonio Brass Band
Soprano Cornet – Erick Matta
Principal Cornet – Erin Thomas
Principal Euphonium – John Caputo
Percussion Section – Berry McWhorter, Evan Jose, and Daniel DeSalles
Natural State Brass Band
Principal Cornet – Courtney Swindler
Solo Eb Horn – Robert Herring
Principal Euphonium – Jamie Lipton
Dallas Brass Band
Soprano Cornet – Danny Brock
Principal Cornet – Matt Harper
Principal Euphonium – Scott McLain
Percussion – Bryan He
Dallas Youth Brass Band – Middle School
Gavin Ventura – Euphonium
Shawn Dorff – Flugelhorn
Dallas Youth Brass Band – High School
Eli Everett – Percussion
More Than Just a Competition
Beyond the thrilling performances, the Texas Brass Festival was a true celebration of the brass band tradition. Vendors offered a variety of instruments, accessories, and music, providing attendees with unique opportunities to explore the latest in brass innovation. Most notably, Guest Conductor Michael Garasi led nearly 60 youth brass musicians through an educational workshop on brass banding concluding with a fabulous performance.
The festival was also a time for connection—bands mingled, shared experiences, and strengthened the sense of community that makes the brass band world so special. With attendees from Texas and neighboring states, the event successfully fostered a growing network of musicians dedicated to the art of brass performance.
Looking Ahead
With such a resounding success this year, the Texas Brass Festival continues to build momentum as a premier brass event in the region. Plans are already underway for an even bigger and better festival next year, promising more outstanding performances, educational opportunities, and chances to celebrate the vibrant brass band culture. Keep your eyes on the Texas Brass Festival Website for updates on next year’s festival date!
A heartfelt thank you to all the bands, soloists, adjudicators, vendors, and volunteers who made this festival possible. Your passion and dedication to brass music ensure that events like these thrive and inspire the next generation of musicians.
Until next year, let the music ring!
