Six of New Orleans’ best brass bands will share the stage at the Howlin’ Wolf at 10 PM in the Christmas edition of a music series dedicated to celebrating and promoting the brass band legacy of this great city.
The event brings together the divergent styles and songs of the Hot 8, Most Wanted, Da Truth, New Breed, Free Spirit, and the Young Pinstripe Brass Bands. One of the highlights of the Christmas edition of BRASStravaganza will be a powerhouse rendition of the song “This Christmas” by a fifty-piece brass band assembled from the night’s lineup.
BRASStravaganza is also back as a precursor to Brass Fest, which debuts in the spring as a new force in the festival culture of New Orleans, as well as a music series in its own right. Brass Fest will be an all-day event featuring an expanded lineup of the city’s incredible brass talent including Rebirth, Hot 8, The Stooges, and Most Wanted Brass Bands. Artists who have emerged from the brass band tradition, such as Shamarr Allen, are also on the roster.
“A big part of the significance of BRASStravaganza—and Brass Fest—is that neither are about competition,” says Brass Fest founder and producer, Ersel “Garfield” Bogan III. “Both events foster community among brass musicians of the city while keeping things fun for the fans. This way, BRASStravaganza becomes a part of the holiday celebrations New Orleans is known for. We’re going to close out the show with something beautiful and explosive only brass music of our city can deliver.”
Tickets are $10 in advance, and $15 at the door. Tickets may be purchased here or from any of the band members.
