by Greg Cappis, MSU News Service
A brass ensemble that formed at Montana State University eight years ago is returning to campus for a three-day residency where they will perform twice and offer advice to students.
The Bridger Brass Quintet — consisting of members Zach Bethel, trombone; Marques Ceasar-Lopez, tuba; Briana Gillet, trumpet; Jimmy Kelsey, trumpet; and Philip Shuler, horn — formed on the MSU campus in 2016, where they were coached by Sarah Stoneback, assistant trumpet professor in MSU’s School of Music in the College of Arts and Architecture. The five ensemble members graduated in 2019 and have taken jobs in various parts of the country but are reuniting for this special visit.
Their residency will crescendo with a performance as part of the President’s Arts Series at 7:30pm Wednesday, March 6th, in Reynolds Recital Hall in Howard Hall on the MSU campus. They plan to play musical arrangements that span decades, from the 1950s to contemporary pieces. This performance is free and open to the public and a reception will follow.
The Bridger Brass Quintet will also perform the next night, March 7th, opening for the University Band, again at 7:30pm in Reynolds Recital Hall.
On Tuesday, March 5th, the ensemble members will meet with students. At 11am in Reynolds Recital Hall, they will discuss navigating the music world and their careers in the music industry. That evening, at 7:30pm in Reynolds Recital Hall, the quintet will host a coaching session. All four of the events are open to the public.
“We are so excited to have these amazing students back on campus to inspire, meet and work with students, and perform for the community,” Stoneback said. “Help us celebrate Bobcat alumni making a difference in the field of music.”
Tickets for the University Band concert on March 7th are $5 for MSU students and $10 for general admission and can be purchased at the door or in advance HERE. Tickets for K-12 students are free and only available at the door. •
