
“The Denver Brass brings industry-leading brass programming, music development, professional growth, and inclusive outreach to multi-generational populations of the Denver region and beyond.”
HISTORY
The Denver Brass was founded in 1981 by Kathy and Chuck Brantigan, as an all-new, one-of-a-kind brass chamber ensemble which would be in the forefront of performance, entertainment, commissions and education. Today, The Denver Brass is an elite ensemble recognized throughout the U.S. and the world as one of the premier ensembles of its kind – setting itself apart through its sound, original repertoire, recordings and concert productions.
With 14 world-class musicians, The Denver Brass performs its own original compositions and arrangements and reaches 30,000+ persons annually through more than 140 concerts and outreach services. The ensemble has more than 32 recordings and is heard daily on radio stations throughout the world. We work diligently and methodically to increase outreach and exposure, not just to be heard or appreciated, but to provide inspiration, pleasure, and sustenance to as many people as possible.
The trademark sound of The Denver Brass features a dazzling array of more than 13 distinct brass instruments plus percussion, utilizing mutes, technique and sound expertise to produce a rainbow of sound phenomena - not a band, not an orchestra, an entirely new sound. Originally a classically-oriented ensemble, today we feature a musical palate as diverse as the culture of the western US to present a sound experience that makes an impression long past the final chord of the concert.
People from every background find inspiration in diverse programming – classical, jazz, Broadway, Latin, multi-cultural fusions, and new sound sensations created by brass with bagpipes, steel drums, hand-bells, fiddles, voices, and a variety of distinguished soloists. “Shows,” instead of “concerts,” are carefully designed to enhance the listening experience through strong concert themes and story lines, character hosts, guests from a wide variety of artistic genre, and theatrical lighting, staging, and multi-media techniques.
The Denver Brass is also unique in the world for its cohesive and enthusiastic team. Musicians are selected not only for exceptional technical and creative skills, but also for their integrity, dedication to community, and support of fellow musicians and mission. In addition to remarkable musicians, our team boasts a creative and resourceful staff, forward-thinking Board, large and dedicated volunteer core, and creative artists engaged in new music composition, story line, choreography, and state-of-the art lighting and staging. The Denver Brass received the Mayor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts in 2008.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Denver Brass, Inc. is dedicated to bringing the highest quality of brass performance and literature to a diverse and expanding audience in the seven-county region, the state of Colorado, the United States and the world; educating audiences in regard to musical styles and the art of brass playing; educating brass musicians in technical and musical skills; and contributing to new brass literature through commissions and publication. The Denver Brass is committed to reaching diverse and new audiences through creative programming, innovative marketing, and outreach programs to children, elderly, disabled and all under-served populations.
“Denver Brass sounds incredible! Great programs, and consummate recordings. This collection and unique mix of musicians produces a fantastic sense of ensemble and a wide variety of tone colors. Denver Brass is dedicated to the art of brass playing now and into the future.”
OUR ENSEMBLES
“The Denver Brass” is composed of 14 of Colorado’s finest professional musicians. The band is unique for its year-round season of shows and outreach concerts. Strongly themed concerts, ranging from classic concerts to Latin Brass Hot, Hot, Hot!, Bourbon Street Brass and Brass, Bagpipes & Co, draw diverse audiences to a unique experience.
Denver Brass5 (DB5) is a versatile outreach ensemble bringing the joy of brass to schools, community events, and intimate concerts across Colorado. DB5 specializes in engaging, educational, and wide-ranging programs, from classical to jazz to pops.
Aries Brass Quintet is the premier recital ensemble of The Denver Brass. It features core musicians performing at the highest artistic level. With a focus on refined, adventurous repertoire spanning classical masterworks, new compositions, and bold genre fusions, Aries showcases brass chamber music in its most polished and powerful form.
Other Ensembles - The Denver Brass also presents additional chamber ensembles to meet the needs of the region’s diverse community. From soloists to brass with other families of instruments, the organization provides ensembles for business, private, educational and community events.