News Clip: The Brass Alliance

On Thursday, March 10, the music department had the treat of a visit from Alliance Brass, a five piece jazz/ brass group based in Chicago. During period one, students from both symphonic band and wind ensemble had the opportunity to watch the group perform and answer their questions. The band is composed of Chris O'Hara, who has lived in Boston for over 15 years, Kelly Langenburg, Mary Galime, Thomas Stark, and William Russell. Two trumpets (Chris and Mary), one tuba (William), one french horn (Kelly), and one trombone (Thomas) blared triumphant hits including Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody and quieter fares such as Moonlight Serenade, a jazz piece. Each member of the group comes from a unique background. Interestingly enough, Thomas has only been with the group for nine months, and is very excited by the new touring life. Kelly started playing the french horn her junior year of high school because she was bored with the trumpet she played throughout elementary. The rest have been playing their current instrument since they were children, and enjoy it immensely. The touring process is new for Alliance Brass as well. Over the past year, they embarked upon a tour across the U.S., with one continuous setlist, culminating very soon. They called this experience in Norwell “a nice break,” and remained very passionate about music throughout the conversation and playing. After all, they all attended college for it.

You can visit their website here or even order their current touring CDs here : http://www.alliancebrass.com