Summer Recap
It was a busy and fun-filled summer for Denver Brass! Here’s a back to school show and tell!
In May, we recorded our newest album, Sketches of Courage, with 7-time Grammy winner Elaine Martone and Grammy winner Robert Friedrich producing. This album is comprised of original compositions by Denver Brass musicians Sean Schafer Hennessy and Andy Wolfe. Everyone commented on the supportive and collaborative environment throughout, which will lend itself to a fantastic and special resulting album.
Sean Schafer Hennessy and Elaine Martone during a recording play back session.
Denver Brass and recording producers and engineers celebrating the end of successful recording sessions. Photo credit Elaine Martone.
In July, we hosted the 41st international Rafael Mendez Brass Institute. With talented students and world-renowned coaches from the US, Canada, Singapore, Luxembourg, and beyond; and over 20 chamber groups; it was another brass-filled week never to forget.
A sound-filled coach Stephen Dombrowksi, Principal Tuba with Colorado Symphony, and his chamber ensemble at RMBI.
“The collaborative and encouraging atmosphere challenged me to grow as a musician while making every coaching, lesson, and performance both enjoyable and rewarding. I highly recommend the Rafael Méndez Brass Institute to anyone seeking to elevate their musicianship, learn from exceptional artists, and be inspired by a community of outstanding musicians.”
- Victoria Sewell, RMBI 2026 participant
Another happy ensemble with coach Chris Coletti after their final recital.
At RMBI we were also able to throw an album release party for our first two albums of the year, Top of the World - available now for streaming - and If You Just Believe - streaming soon!
Next up was our annual show at the Arvada Center for the Arts amphitheatre. We thought America’s 250th birthday and Colorado’s 150th was a great excuse to play a new commission by our own Kaitlin McCarthy. It was a silly piece for a silly word - Supercalifragilisticexpialodocious!
Arvada 2026. Photo credit Josh Decker.
Finally, we trekked up to Como to participate once again in the beautiful Boreas Pass Railroad Day - a day full of historic trains and tunes. Chuck and Kathy Brantigan, our founders, were presented with an historic plaque to be posted in Como, reflecting their extensive efforts in the restoration of the Como Roundhouse and trains with the South Park Rail Society.
Como 2026. Photo credit Gregory Luft.
And now here we are at the beginning of another season! Subscriptions and tickets to our first concert are on sale now. All other tickets available starting September 15. We can’t wait to see you soon!