Arcata, CA--From July 19 to August 1, 2008, the annual Brass Chamber Music Workshop (BCMW) met at Humbolt State University.  Participants range in age from High School to Adult and represent a wide range of ability levels. The Workshop is split into two one-week sessions with approximately 80 participants each week.  Students of the workshop were divided into chamber ensembles and received coaching from BCMW Faculty during the days events which included rehearsals, master classes, and clinics.  In the evening, students perform for one another in an informal master class setting.  The workshop has access to a large music library which allows returning students plenty of material to explore.

Laura Shea-Clark writes:
"One of the things I enjoyed the most was the incredibly supportive environment.  Each evening after a full day of rehearsals, each group performed in front of all the other participants, all of whom were on stage.  Instead of feeling under the microscope, it was more like playing for a huge cheerleading squad.  It was great to hear 'way to go' and 'nice job' after playing."

A growing part of the Brass Chamber Music Workshop is the development of the Brass Chamber Music Composition Contest.  This year marked the Sixth year for the contest and has provided dozens of new compositions that are now housed at Humbolt State University.  Participants are exposed to new music, composers are given an opportunity for their music to be played, and the new music is generally well received.  

For more information, please visit http://www.humboldt.edu/~extended/special/brass/about.html