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2006 NABBA Ensemble Champion Chicago Brass Band Players to premiere Sy Brandon’s Introduction, Aria & Dance at a concert on October 8th, 2006

As result of being awarded the Co-op Press Commission Assistance Grant, the Chicago Brass Band (CBB) Players will be premiering Sy Brandon’s new piece, Introduction, Aria & Dance. The grant the covers the cost of the commission fee, copying and reproduction of parts, and composer residency

Sy Brandon was asked to compose a work for a 10-piece brass ensemble in the tradition of the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble/London Brass, except that the instruments would comply with traditional the brass band (cornets in place of trumpets, Eb tenor horn in place of french horn). Using the guideline of NABBA's rules for its Small Brass Ensemble Competition, it was specified that the new work was not to exceed 9 minutes in length.

Dr. Brandon will be offering two presentations at Northern Illinois University College of Visual and Performing Arts on Friday, October 6. The first presentation will be for the composition students. The second will be for the brass students.

On Saturday, October 7, Sy Brandon will participate in Chicago Brass Band Players' dress rehearsal of his new work, offering the composer's own insights and suggestions for performance.

For the actual World Premiere of Introduction, Aria & Dance on Chicago Brass Band Players' concert at McHenry County Community College on Sunday afternoon, October 8, Dr. Brandon will speak to the audience about his new piece with musical excerpts played by the CBB Players. This will be followed by a performance of the complete piece.

The CBB Players Concert is sponsored by McHenry County Community College, so admission is free.

CBB Players has been in existence for 4 years. They have won the NABBA Small Brass Ensemble Competition 3 of the 4 years (including 2006), and missed first place by one point in the other year.