All of the instruments in the brass family work essentially the same way. It is their length and shape that makes a difference in the way they sound. Most brass instruments have either piston or rotary valves, and one, the trombone, uses a slide to change the pitch. All brass instrument sounds are created by "buzzing" the lips inside of a mouthpiece. That "buzz" is amplified by the rest of instrument to make the rich sounds that you might be familiar with. Students in Unit 4 schools may choose the Trumpet, the French Horn, the Trombone, or the Euphonium if they would like to study a brass instrument.
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Brass instruments can play in Chamber EnsemblesA brass quintet is a common small ensemble for brass, but you will see many different combinations of brass musicians together. A traditional brass quintet consists of two trumpets, a french horn, a trombone, and a tuba.
Most brass quintets play sitting down, but this one likes to move around a lot! Can you imagine carrying a Tuba?! This video showcases a very popular Brass Quintet called the Canadian Brass. They have been in existence for over 40 years! During that time they have produced over 100 recordings. |
Brass instruments can play in Concert Bands and Brass BandsOn the woodwinds page you saw an example of a Concert Band. This video is an example of a brass band. Brass band consists of only brass instruments and minimal percussion. They typically have Cornets, Trumpets, Alto Horns, French Horns, Baritones, Euphoniums, and Tubas.
This brass band is performing a piece by Philip Sparke that features Cornet soloist Hans Gansch. |
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Brass instruments can play in Marching Bands and Drum and Bugle Corps.On the woodwinds page, you saw a traditional college Marching Band. A similar ensemble is called a Drum and Bugle Corps. Drum and Bugle Corps include marching brass instruments and extensive percussion. They also have a color guard. Drum and Bugle Corps is a summer activity for people aged 14-21. Corps put on very theatrical shows and compete all over the country, culminating in the Drum Corps International World Finals in early August.
This is a video of the Drum and Bugle Corps, Phantom Regiment, performing their 2008 Closer, "Spartacus." The Phantom Regiment won the 2008 World Championship by .025 points! |
Brass instruments can play in Jazz EnsemblesOn the previous page, you saw an example of a big band. Brass, Woodwinds, and Rhythm players can also play in smaller jazz ensembles with a wide variety of instrumentation. Sometimes these are called combos and sometimes they are called quartets, quintets, sextets, etc.
This video features an up and coming New Orleans musician who calls himself "Trombone Shorty." He plays both the trumpet and the trombone in a variety of styles. This ensemble also includes a Tenor Saxophone, a Guitar, an Electric Bass, and a Drum Set. |
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Brass instruments can play in Symphony OrchestrasSymphony Orchestras can have any number of brass instruments, but often Symphonic music calls for around three Trumpets, four French Horns, three Trombones, and one Tuba.
This video features the Israel Philharmonic, led by conductor Gustavo Dudamel. The Finale of Shostakovich's Fifth Symphony begins with a strong brass statement and features brass soloists throughout. |