The annual Brass Division Recital was hosted by the Washburn University department of music & theatre April 8 at White Concert Hall. 

Featuring performances from  the WU Honors Brass Quartet, Low Brass Ensemble and the Washburn Faculty Brass Quintet, the evening brought together a mix of classical and modern repertoire, highlighting student growth, faculty talent and community inclusion.

The recital opened with a performance by the WU Honors Brass Quartet, presenting works by Felice de Giardini and Hayato Hirose, followed by Gustav Holst’s “Thaxted,” arranged by Thomas Zugger. The quartet featured Brennan Mott, trumpet player, Hannah Allen, horn player and Orion Craig and Roshawn Mosley, trombone players.

The Washburn University Low Brass Ensemble then took the stage, starting with “Thaxted,” a reimagined version of Holst’s Jupiter theme arranged by Zugger, offering familiar melodies with a fresh perspective.

Next came Back Step, “Leviathan” by Jack Wilds — a bold, cinematic piece often used to launch low brass concerts with high impact. The set concluded with (Excursions) by David Wilborn.

Em Miller, sophomore art education major and performer in the ensemble, says, “I just like playing music with people, with my fellow trombonists.”

“I think it was good, especially considering we didn’t get as many rehearsals as we hoped to because of the pep band. I’m especially proud of the Low Brass Ensemble,” Miller said.

 The ensemble consisted of a large group of student musicians, including Orion Craig, Roshawn Mosley, Eliott King, Maygann Riddle, Becca Schleif, Elena Toenjes, Chase Kelly, Em Miller, Sam Garner, Cruz Ossiander, Brett Mertens, Kenny Yingling, Danny Xidis, Alexander Price, Adin Mushock and Logan Heskett.

Some of the members were even local high school students, offering them an early opportunity to perform at the collegiate level.

The audience, which included many peers and faculty, found both the music and atmosphere enriching.

“I like the emotion of brass,” said Yared Romo, junior music education major. “Just the use of dynamics and how many horns there were. I’m a music major, so these are my professors and colleagues. I hope more people come next time.”

Closing the evening, the Washburn Faculty Brass Quintet performed the third movement (Allegro Moderato) of Brass Quintet No. 1, Op. 5 by Victor Ewald — a staple of the brass chamber repertoire. Faculty performers included Bryce Call and Dalton Imhoff-Brey on trumpet, Andrea Stanton on the french horn, Andrew Hakenewerth on trombone and Taylor Hicks on tuba.

Call, assistant professor of music and event organizer, says the recital reflects the department’s mission to combine musical education with public engagement.

“The WU Brass Recital is one of many performance opportunities for students at Washburn,”Call said. “Being able to perform for a live audience is a crucial part of a music education. Some members of the Low Brass Ensemble are local high school students, which helps expand the ensemble and provides younger musicians with valuable experience.”  

Call explained that organizing the event requires careful planning, regular rehearsals and logistical support. Honors Brass Quartet members audition at the beginning of each semester and meet twice a week, once on their own and once with faculty to prepare for performances.

Beyond campus, Washburn continues to prioritize public engagement.

“Washburn music concerts are always free and open to the public,” Call said. “We’re always looking for ways to reach more people through music.”

 The department will continue its season with more upcoming performances, including senior recitals, ensemble concerts, and faculty showcases.

Edited by Stuti Khadka and Jeremy Ford.