

Minnesota Brass seeks a consultant or consultants to assist in gathering input from stakeholders and experts regarding the future of our performing ensembles. The consultant will be required to complete the following tasks outlined in the request for proposal.
Work will be conducted in June-August, 2018.
We are committed to listening to and learning from key stakeholders including alumni, staff and music educators. To assure consistent, unbiased data-gathering, the consultant will be responsible for gathering feedback and summarizing input. The full RFP is available online and proposals are due June 8, 2018.
Our launch event for potential new SoundSport AND DrumBattle ensembles will be this Friday, May 18 at 7 p.m. The event will be held at 2700 Winter Street in NE Minneapolis (the ‘Sears rehearsal site’ familiar to MBI alumni). Potential members in any section including brass, percussion and color guard should plan on attending. This will be a great opportunity to meet key members of the staff and prepare for a fun summer moving and playing. Please complete an information form as soon as possible to indicate your interest!
As previously announced, Minnesota Brass is excited to explore launching a new SoundSport ensemble to perform at regional events and the DCI World Championships in Indianapolis. If interest warrants, a DrumBattle ensemble may also be launched for percussionists!
Joel Matuzak will lead the program design for both ensembles. Brass instructors include Paul Terry, Mark Santori and John Devine. Jordan Warfield will provide leadership for the visual program. Trevor Alwan will serve as director of the ensembles coordinating staff and administrative needs.
The schedule for the SoundSport unit will require regular Friday night rehearsals and some weekend performances. The DrumBattle ensemble will rehearse on Saturday with weekend performances as well. The launch of both ensembles will be contingent on the interest-level and participation commitment of prospective members. Questions? E-mail Trevor!
Minnesota Brass Inc. (MBI) has recently reaffirmed its commitment to a safe environment for all members and staff. MBI has since established a Conduct Review Committee (CRC) to review any and all allegations of inappropriate behavior. The CRC has an Open Door policy and is the watchdog for violations of MBI policy, The CRC has already begun review and investigations of various allegations of inappropriate behavior. In addition, the CRC has prepared an update that specifically addresses issues involved with reporting, whether anonymous or named, and now offers a new, confidential online reporting form. Because submitting a report can often be difficult, the CRC wants to reassure those contemplating making a report that they have a voice and a safe haven for reporting violations of MBI policy. Please feel free to review the CRC update and see the confidential online reporting form here.
Minnesota Brass has announced it is considering fielding a SoundSport (SoundSport.com) team for 2018.
SoundSport, a program of Drum Corps International (DCI), is designed to provide unique performance opportunities for instrumental music ensembles of all types, in a dynamic environment. The goal is to assist in the creation of—and provide performance opportunities to—local, low-cost and entertaining instrumental ensembles.
“We know many alumni and 2018 members are saddened by the decision not to field a competitive drum corps in 2018,” said Todd Tanji, executive director. “While SoundSport is not directly comparable to drum corps, it does provide for many great opportunities to perform together and create more flexible opportunities for potential members of all ages.” The Minnesota Brass SoundSport team would have a reduced rehearsal schedule and dues structure as compared to the traditional drum corps commitment. It is anticipated that such a unit would perform as part of the DCI World Championships in Indianapolis, Ind., on Saturday, Aug. 11, creating more opportunities for those who participate in fall marching bands to join.
An informational meeting for interested parties—including current members and alumni—will be held at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 28, at Northdale Middle School in Coon Rapids. Potential members in all sections (brass, percussion, color guard and support staff) are invited to attend. Those interested in being a part of SoundSport but unable to attend Saturday should send an email to director@mnbrass.org.
A final announcement regarding the potential SoundSport ensemble will be made by June 1.
More information about SoundSport is available online.