Middle and high school musicians are invited to “level up” their skills this spring at the annual Hastings College Brass Day. On Wednesday, March 18, Hastings College Music will host the internationally acclaimed Seraph Brass and the Cathedral Brass Quintet for an intensive day of coaching, rehearsals and a public performance.
The event is designed for student soloists and ensembles, as well as community members, looking to polish their sound before district contests or simply improve their technique. After a day of workshops, lessons and masterclasses, participants will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. to perform in a mass brass concert alongside Seraph Brass and Cathedral Brass. The concert is free and open to the public.
“Having Seraph Brass participate gives students a rare opportunity to learn from some of the best musicians in the country,” said Dr. Louie Eckhardt, Hastings College associate professor of music and director of bands. “Brass Day is a fantastic way to hone skills and discover new techniques, culminating in a powerful, collaborative performance that is open to the entire community.”
More information and a link for students to register is at hastings.edu/brassday.
All events this year will take place at First Presbyterian Church in Hastings (621 N. Lincoln Ave.), with check-in starting at 12:30 p.m., followed by lessons and coaching and a final performance rehearsal at 5:00 p.m.
Seraph Brass is a dynamic, all-female ensemble that showcases top-tier musicians from across the U.S. It’s composed of Robyn Black on the tuba, Lauren Casey-Clyde on the trombone, Morgan Low and Mary Elizabeth Bowden on the trumpet, and Layan Atieh on the horn. They are known for diverse programming and highlighting the work of women and marginalized composers.
Joining them is the Cathedral Brass Quintet, a professional ensemble featuring regional performers Dan Sodomka on the tuba, Erin Beave and Louie Eckhardt on the trumpet, Amy Schneider on the horn, and Paul Niedbalski on the trombone.
Hastings College is a four-year residential college that focuses on student academic and extracurricular achievement. Founded in 1882, the College is dedicated to student success and service to the community. Discover more at hastings.edu.