Brass Bands

Colorado Mesa University’s Rowdy Brass Band and Mesa Brass Band give student musicians professional performance experience through campus events, community appearances, athletic events and other performance opportunities. Both ensembles perform a variety of musical styles and are designed to prepare students for the demands of live performance.

Rowdy Brass Band

Rowdy Brass Band is a small, auditioned ensemble featuring some of CMU’s top brass, saxophone, percussion and electronic musicians. The group performs custom arrangements of pop, rock, jazz, Latin, ceremonial and other styles, with music performed from memory.

The highly mobile ensemble performs throughout the academic year and gives members experience preparing and performing music in a professional setting.

Mesa Brass Band

Members of Mesa Brass Band receive similar performance training and experience, with opportunities to perform independently and alongside Rowdy Brass Band. 
Mesa Brass Band also provides a pathway for musicians interested in future openings with Rowdy Brass Band. 

JOIN THE BRASS BAND     PERFORMANCE REQUEST

RBB & MBB Audition

Deadline: April 1
Submit: One YouTube video to Dr. Hinkle at [email protected]

Video

1. Introduction

• Name, hometown, high school

• Desired instrument/placement

• Intended CMU degree

• One fun fact or reason for joining

2. Performance

Winds / Keyboard / Guitar / Bass

• Hot Time: First 15 measures — 160 BPM

• Grape Lemonade: All measures of your chosen part — 112 BPM

• One additional selection: Improvisation, transcription, or something that showcases your ability

Drummers
Perform these styles with time/soloing:

• New Orleans / 2nd Line

• Medium Rock

• 12/8 Rock/Funk

• Fast March / Hot Time

• Medium Latin

• Your choice

Important

• All current and prospective members must audition each spring.

• Current membership does not guarantee a future spot.

• Use an audible metronome for required pieces/grooves.

• Professional video quality is not required.

• If your instrument doesn't have a written part, adapt the music to fit your instrument.

• Contact Dr. Hinkle if you want to audition on an instrument not previously used in RBB/MBB.

Media and Electronic Press Kit

Logos:

Photos: