Looking Into a New Age of Brass

Energetic, fervent and classic are just some of the qualities critics are using to describe New Age Brass as one of the most exciting new brass ensembles around.

First establishing their group at Millersville University back in 2008, the modern brass performers are now composed of Millersville alums John Maurer ‘12, trumpet; Dan Meeker ‘11, tuba and Dan Stauffer ‘08, trumpet. The group branched out to other areas of the country for some of the greatest talent in the music industry which now includes Eastman Conservatory alum Nate Reit, ‘09, trombone and Tommy Rieger, Mont Clair University ‘13, French horn.

“We are forever grateful to Millersville University. We really have to thank Dr. Micheal Houlahan, Dr. Philip Tacka and Dr. Jennifer Jester for all of their continued support. We are hoping to talk with more faculty in the future to help the University with their Chamber Music program. It feels great to be giving back to a university that gave so much and continues to give so much,” said Maurer.

The New Age Brass has had the privilege of performing all around North America, specifically in venues such as the Pennsylvania Academy of Music in Lancaster, the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia and at the Banff Centre in Alberta, Canada. The Banff Centre also offers residency programs for brass ensembles which the New Age Brass was accepted into twice.

Banff Brass Ensemble Summer Residency is a two week program created for pre-formed brass ensembles, such as the New Age Brass, which provides an environment of support and professional development for new artists to explore ideas and collaborate in a community of working artists. The professional training program allows emerging artists to work with leading coaches, performers and professionals in the field, while preparing for performances.

New Age Brass will be collaborating with the top brass musicians in the world, such as Jens Lindemann, international trumpet soloist; Martin Hackleman, principal horn for the National Symphony Orchestra; and Ryan Anthony, principal trumpet for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.

“Being surrounded by such world-class musicians helps to increase our level of musicianship and we also learn so much about the business aspect of playing in a professional, globally recognized ensemble,” said Maurer.

After the group comes back from their residency, Millersville will be their first stop, performing one of the very first concerts at The Biemesderfer Concert Hall at The Winter Visual and Performing Arts Center on September 7, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.

For more information on New Age Brass, visit www.newagebrass.com.