ABQ database window (click to visit)

In December 2004, William Jones, the American Brass Quintet, and a host of additional collaborators launched the Brass Quintet Database, which they tell us is "the most comprehensive Internet database ever compiled of non-transcription music written for brass quintet." The database is accessible from www.AmericanBrassQuintet.org. New users must register (registration is free). The ABQ continues:

"Since 1950, there has been an explosion of chamber music written for brass quintet. Until now, there has not been a collected, detailed and authoritative repository of information on these works. Continuing updates to the database will include works written before 1950 (including works from earlier periods written for forebears of the modern brass quintet).

"Currently, the interactive database contains over 1,450 works by some 950 composers. The database is searchable by composer or country, as well as a wide variety of other methods. Information provided on each work is as extensive as presently available, including program notes, annotations, recordings and premiere information. The database also allows users to contribute information or corrections. All contributed information is vetted prior to a database inclusion or updating.

"Founded in 1960, the American Brass Quintet is the longest continuously performing brass quintet in North America. The ABQ has itself brought about over 140 works for brass quintet from composers both established and emerging. Coming ABQ premieres include works from Joan Tower and Huang Ruo.

"The teaming of William Jones, the ABQ, and other contributors to bring about this database is part of the ongoing mission of the American Brass Chamber Music Association, Inc. to foster and encourage the art of brass chamber music.