The exuberant sounds of brass will once again fill the air in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, as the renowned River City Brass ensemble prepares to take the stage at the Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center. With a diverse lineup of performances, from Broadway favorites to Celtic-inspired melodies, the band promises to deliver an engaging and unforgettable musical experience for concertgoers.

Elevating the Johnstown Music Scene with Brass Brilliance

Unparalleled Acoustics and a Warm Welcome

The Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, located on the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown campus, boasts some of the best acoustics in western Pennsylvania, providing the perfect setting for River City Brass to showcase their exceptional talent. According to James Gourlay, the artistic and general director of the ensemble, the Johnstown audience is equally as captivating, with a warm and welcoming spirit that creates an unbeatable combination.

A Triumphant Return to the Johnstown Stage

River City Brass is no stranger to the Johnstown stage, having enjoyed a successful three-concert mini-series in the previous season. The attendance for these performances grew with each concert, and the upcoming series is already generating significant interest, leaving the band feeling optimistic and eager to return.

Bringing Broadway to Johnstown

On November 9th, River City Brass will present "Salute to Broadway," an evening dedicated to the beloved tunes from iconic musicals such as "The Music Man," "Mary Poppins," "The King and I," "Fiddler on the Roof," and "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang." Gourlay emphasizes the audience's affinity for brass interpretations of Broadway classics, noting that these familiar melodies have the power to transport listeners down Memory Lane, evoking cherished memories and emotions.

A Festive Brass Celebration

The holiday season will be ushered in on December 21st with "Christmas Brasstacular," the band's traditional Christmas concert. This festive performance will blend seasonal music with the appearance of Santa, his elves, and Rudolph, as well as the distribution of treats to the audience. The concert will also feature Duke Ellington's rendition of "The Nutcracker," arranged by Pittsburgher Billy Strayhorn, along with beloved Christmas carols and sing-alongs.

Connecting with Celtic Roots

On March 16th, River City Brass will present "Celtic Connections," an afternoon concert that showcases the ensemble's ability to captivate audiences with music rooted in the Celtic nations. The program will feature favorites such as "How to Train Your Dragon," "Play That Country Tuba," and "Amazing Grace," as well as the energetic "bagrock" sound that blends rock music with the power of bagpipes. The visual spectacle will be enhanced by the presence of the Pipes and Drums of Carnegie Mellon University and Irish dancers from the Bell School of Irish Dance.

Uplifting the Audience

Gourlay's vision for the River City Brass concerts is to provide an uplifting and entertaining experience for the audience, allowing them to momentarily forget their worries and leave with a spring in their step. The band's commitment to delivering a high-caliber performance, coupled with the exceptional acoustics and warm reception of the Johnstown audience, promises to create an unforgettable musical journey for all who attend.