This summer the Brass Band of Battle Creek (BBBC) is continuing one of its most dynamic educational programs, the Youth Brass Band! The youth ensemble is comprised of high school students from Michigan and Indiana who auditioned during the 4th annual BBBC Youth Brass Band Day. During the 2017 auditions, GHS senior Josie Strader was selected for the ensemble!

The Youth Brass Band is under the direction of Michael J. Garasi, resident conductor of the BBBC, and Ed Zentera, BBBC member. The ensemble meets June through December and will present two concerts for the public, and perform with the BBBC at its holiday concert on Saturday, December 2, 2017.

This summer the students have taken part in master classes and group rehearsals with members of the BBBC, including a weekend retreat at Sherman Lake  YMCA Camp. This program is made possible in part by generous funding from the Binda Foundation, Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and the Battle Creek Community Foundation.

The Youth Brass Band will hold its debut performance on Saturday, August 12, 2017 at the Sherman Lake YMCA Performance Shell starting at 8:00 p.m. There will also be some special guests from the BBBC in attendance. Admission to the concert is free! Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and enjoy “brass on the grass”! For more information about the BBBC, future concerts, and special events, visit www.bbbc.net

Congratulation to Josie on her selection as a member of this prestigious ensemble!