This multi-award-winning Brass Band will perform in Chestertown’s Fountain Park this Saturday evening, July 2, 2011, from 7:00 -8:30 pm. In case of rain, the concert will be moved to Emanuel Church next to the park.
Consisting of about 35 players, the Chesapeake Silver Cornet Brass Band is modeled upon a traditional British format which began in the 1830’s. The instrumentation includes cornets, flugelhorn, tenor horns, baritones, euphoniums, trombones, b-flat and e-flat basses and percussion. It is one of about 100 such American bands, and the only one in Delaware. The Band’s instrumentation creates a full, rich tonal spectrum; the sound quality can be reminiscent of a pipe organ.
It is entirely volunteer and community-based, drawing from a large variety of vocations, and some players travel as far as 125 miles round trip for rehearsals and concerts. Chesapeake recently competed in the North American Brass Band championship contest in Raleigh, North Carolina, proudly coming in 2nd in its division. In 2008, it was the only brass band invited to perform (for an audience of over 700) at the annual convention of the American Association of Concert Bands in Corning, New York.
The music includes a broad mix ranging from classical, jazz, pop, rock, blues, marches, and hymns, together with new music being composed solely for this type of band. This Saturday’s concert will include several pieces to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, such as “Shenandoah,” with a euphonium solo by Rocky Snyder. Also on the program will be several Duke Ellington pieces, including “Caravan” and “In a Sentimental Mood.” Sue Peo will play a cornet solo on “Misty,” and Phil Hessler will offer a trombone solo on “Stardust.” The band will also have CDs for sale at the concert.
Musical Director, Dr. Russell E. Murray, Jr.
These free programs are sponsored by the Town of Chestertown with support from The Kent County Arts Council & Community Contributors. For more information and updates see www.chestertown.com/events/musicpark/
To help make these programs possible, please send donations . payable to the Town of Chestertown and designated for .“Music in the Park,” to 118 N. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620.
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