Empire Brass, renowned for their virtuosic flair and rich sound, has established themselves as one of the most eminent brass quintets in the world. Formed in the early 1970s, this ensemble quickly rose to fame by embracing a diverse repertoire that ranges from Baroque to contemporary, including elaborate arrangements of orchestral pieces specifically tailored for brass. The group, originally comprising Rolf Smedvig (trumpet), Charles Lewis (trumpet), David Ohanian (French horn), Eric Ruske (French horn), Sam Pilafian (tuba), and Scott A. Hartman (trombone), has seen some changes in lineup over the years, but it consistently retains the caliber of excellence expected from musicians of the highest order.

With acclaimed recordings like "Fireworks" and "Class Brass: On the Edge," Empire Brass displays a meticulous attention to detail and a penchant for expressive performances that make classical music accessible and thrilling to a wide audience. Their ventures into thematic albums, such as "King's Court and Celtic Fair" or "An Empire Brass Christmas: The World Sings," showcase their adaptability and willingness to explore the various facets of music, celebrating cultural heritages and festive occasions alike. The ensemble has both educated and delighted listeners with their masterful releases, contributing to the world of brass music not just through performances but also through educational outreach and a dedication to pushing the boundaries of the quintet format.

Genres

Brass Band

Brass Ensemble

Brass Quintet

Related Artists

American Brass Quintet

Center City Brass Quintet

Chicago Brass Quintet

The Philip Jones Brass Ensemble

Gomalan Brass Quintet

National Brass Ensemble

Philip Smith

German Brass

Canadian Brass

Matthias Höfs

Sam Pilafian

Boston Brass

Latest Release

Fireworks

Empire Brass

Album - 33 Tracks - Released January 1, 2005