Transit Brass - Residency & CD

My name is Robert Sears and I am a central-Illinois based trumpet player, composer and the founder of Transit Brass. In February of 2016 I created Transit Brass, which is an ensemble of eight brass musicians dedicated to furthering brass ensemble literature in both classical and jazz idioms. This group is comprised of versatile performers, educators, composers and arrangers. Each member brings a slightly different musical past with them whether it be classical, jazz, or avant garde roots. What results is a unique fusion of musical styles and genres.

This summer we plan to record our debut album and also spend a week as the Ensemble in Residence at the Fredericksburg Brass Institute in Fredericksburg, VA.

About our upcoming recording project... Our debut album will feature 8 all new original pieces of music for brass octet. 6 of the 8 pieces have been composed by the members of the group and 2 of the pieces are works that we have commissioned from composers Mike Merrill and Ross Wixom. (To see a full list of the works to be recorded see below). Our CD will not only feature our brass octet but two guest percussionists and a rhythm section. We are very excited to share our new music with you but need your help to make it happen.

The second focus of the summer is our Residency at the Fredericksburg Brass Institute in Fredericksburg, VA from July 10-15th. We will have the opportunity to present a masterclass, coach chamber brass ensembles, work with horn legend Marty Hackleman, perform in two concerts and rub shoulders with prominent, up-and-coming brass professionals. Additionally, we will give the World Premiere of Rapid Transit by Ross Wixon. We are very excited for this!

The brass institute will cover the cost of our housing and a few meals but some travel expenses remain. We could use your help to make this trip a financially sound endeavor.

We have been blessed with the ability to keep our costs quite low for both the Institute and recording project. Our goal is to raise $950 to help us cover the remainder of our CD recording expenses and $600 to help us cover the cost of travel from Champaign, IL to Fredericksburg, VA. This totals to a goal of $1,550. Any amount you are able to contribute will be greatly appreciated.

These funds will help to further establish Transit Brass as a touring, professional brass ensemble. We look forward to sharing our music with you in the near future.

*Each donation of $20 or more will receive a complimentary copy of our CD. 

Music to be recorded:
Commissions
Highland Fanfare by Mike Merrill (w/ percussion)
Rapid Transit by Ross Wixon

New Compositions written by Transit Brass
Big Tired by David Fletcher
Breathe by Robert Sears
Minor Detail by Robert Sears (w/ rhythm section)
Soundscapes by Austin Seybert
To the Stars by Robert Sears
Yellowhammer by Ben Carrasquillo (w/ rhythm section)

To learn more about Transit Brass click here:
www.transitbrass.com
www.facebook.com/transitbrass