Silicon Valley Brass

Silicon Valley Brass Band

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Silicon Valley Brass Band Announces Changes to 2010-2011 Season

It's been an incredible ride over the past few years.  From the first performance to the conclusion of our second season, the Silicon Valley Brass Band is proud to say we've never lost sight of our original goal:  to provide both musicians and audience members alike with a very unique and memorable musical experience.  But as we know, nothing remains the same.  As the SVBB has evolved, it became evident to everyone involved there was a need for a championship level brass band in the bay area.

As of May 24th, the Silicon Valley Brass Band is moving forward as a non profit organization under new directorship.  Many people will wonder, "which band is the original SVBB?"  In reality, it's both, and it's neither.  Members have the opportunity to play in one group or the other, and some will be playing in both.

What brought this about?

Mission College was dropping the SVBB from its schedule in the Fall of 2010.  At that time, part of the advisory board was directed to file for non-profit status.  Ultimately, an opportunity opened to move the SVBB to the east bay and become part of a college.  The non-profit board held the belief that SVBB should remain in the south bay while redoubling its effort to grow musically.  This directive includes a year around schedule that includes many different concerts and festivals while ultimately taking SVBB into national competition.  The board also wanted to place the reigns of the organization in the hands of its members (and we've felt we've done just that).

Who will be conducting the band?

There has been a lot of background work to prepare for an incredible 2010-2011 season, and the organization is excited to announce Steve Barnhill as the conductor of the Silicon Valley Brass Band for the 2010-2011 season.

With over 25 years of dedicated bay area conducting experience (from collegiate instruction with the Ohlone Concert Band, non profit performance work with the Santa Clara Vanguard and public education as a band director within the East Side Union High School District), Steve is more of an institution than a conductor.  Synonymous with brass playing excellence, Steve has taught and educated some of the best and brightest musicians in the area.  His resume speaks for himself while his enthusiasm is unmatched.  Steve will bring the intensity to take the band to the next level of championship performance.  Steve's official bio will be posted shortly.

A New Season Begins...

The band will be holding auditions for all spots in the near future.  The proposed rehearsal schedule will be Thursday evenings at Evergreen Valley High School in San Jose.  If you are interested in performing, please contact Eric Hand at eric@brassgurus.com.  Please check this website often, as we will be updating information soon.

Thanks!

Todd Oliver
Eric Hand
James Manganaro

About the Band

The Silicon Valley Brass Band is a 30-piece brass and percussion ensemble formed in the British Brass Band tradition, utilizing the following instruments:

Bb Cornets, Eb Soprano Cornet, Flugel Horn, Eb Tenor Horns (instead of Horns in F), Euphoniums and Baritones, Tenor Trombones, Bass Trombone, Bb and Eb Basses and 3 percussionists.