Preparing for the 2024 Season

There are a few changes that are being made to ensure that the musical quality of the ensemble remains high. We have expanded our instrumentation so there will be new faces mixed in with the returning players. Once again, these fine musicians come from across the county. There are ten states represented, the three most northern New England states plus Kentucky, Utah, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and Virginia. All the players are fine musicians who have an interest in recreating the sounds of the 19th-century brass bands.

The music director’s challenging task is to select music that is entertaining and, at the same time, provides historical insights into 19th-century band performances. Some pieces are selected to feature the musical prowess of the ensemble. This year two exciting overtures by Gioachino Rossini (1792-1868) will be included. Rossini’s overtures are so well composed that they are often known more as stand-alone concert works separate from their operas.

Some of this year’s works have a direct connection to 19th-century Maine. Chandler’s Band (known as The Portland Band when organized in 1833) is believed to be the second oldest professional band in continuous service, so it is fitting that we perform music related to these historic performers. Jon Hall, longtime member of the Yankee Brass, actually studied with a member of Chandler’s Band, and we look forward to learning more about this piece of Maine history.

Finally, we searched the Yankee Brass Band Library for other interesting works. Thanks to Yankee Brass Band’s founding director, Paul Maybery (1927-2023), the band has an extensive library of 19th-century music. Many of these works were reconstructed by Paul, and we continue to expand the library. Some pieces are provided by band members. Bangor March by Oliver Shaw (1779-1848) was provided by Yankee member, Chris Troiano. This year we are adding three new arrangements of music by Maine composer, Robert B. Hall (1858-1907) and a delightful quick step created by Maine musician, David Paine (1839-1868).