Well it is finally happening! The edits are done and the mastering is complete. Time for artwork and then we go to press. It has been a long time in the making but it looks like we are finally going to be able to release our first CD. Bala is very excited about this project as we think it showcases some wonderful new works for brass by Robert J. Bradshaw, Norman Bolter and others. There will be something on here for everyone to enjoy.We will be releasing the CD in early March of 2012 through ITunes, so please keep an eye out for it.

Bala is pleased to announce that we have two new members joining us. We are looking forward to making music with these guys!!!

Trombonist Martin Wittenberg is excited to join Bala Brass. Prior to coming to Boston, Martin led a thriving career as an orchestral and chamber musician in his native Germany, including a five-year stint with Munich Brass, two seasons with the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra, and three years and 300 concerts as principal trombonist with the Philharmonia of the Nations. In Boston, he is busy freelancing with ensembles such as the Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Opera Boston, and the Cape Cod Symphony. An enthusiastic and dedicated teacher, Martin is on the faculty of Gordon College and the Longy School of Music.

Classical trumpeter, James Ackley, is an internationally acclaimed trumpet solo artist with numerous appearances that have included orchestras, wind ensembles and chamber groups that have spanned the globe. Ackley has frequently performed as a recitalist throughout North America, South America, and Europe. On a tour through Venezuela, critics described him as “one of the best trumpet players in the world.” The Hartford Courante described him as, “a true artist” and the Free Times called James “one of the nation’s top trumpeters.” James Ackley is currently under Andes International Management. Ackley maintains an active performance schedule; performing solo recitals, concerts and clinics throughout the U.S. and abroad. He is often seen as a judge for the National Trumpet Competition and sits on the board of directors of the International Trumpet Guild. His musical arrangements are exclusively published under the editorial visages of Cimarron Music Press and AK Brass Press. James Ackley is currently on the faculty of the University of South Carolina and is a Yamaha Performing Artist.

Bala is excited to have been invited to perform at the WGBH 99.5 All Classical Festival on June 19, 2010!  Bala will be performing two concerts throughout the daylong festival, at 12:15pm and 5:15pm.  Our performances will be recorded for future airplay and will include works new and old by McDougall, Bolter, and Bradshaw.

This exciting festival will feature many other wonderful performances by top-notch groups, as well as interactive music displays and activities.  What better way to spend a sweltering Saturday that in a comfortable air-conditioned radio studio surrounded by great music?

Tickets for the day are $10 for WGBH members, and $20 for non-members.  To purchase tickets and for more info about the festival, visit the information page.  We hope to see you all there!