Results: 2015 Humboldt State University Brass Chamber Music Composition Contest

Tony Clements, Director of the Humboldt Brass Chamber Music Workshop, announced the 2015 Composition Contest winners on Monday, May 11, 2015.

Dr. Jan Bach, of DeKalb, IL, won the grand prize of US$2000 for his octet “Derivatives.” There were two second prize winners: Zachary Smith, of Fredericksburg, VA, for “Chelsea Suite,” and Jukka Viitasaari, of Tampere, Finland, for “Lord of the Sauna.” Each second-prize winner will receive US$750. Charlie Porter, of Eastsound, WA, received Honorable Mention recognition for “Octet.”

The contest focused on original 8-10 minute works for brass octet. All qualifying entries were played and evaluated by the workshop coaching staff using a blind audition process. Amateur musicians will perform this year’s contest submissions in a workshop format during the July 2015 Brass Chamber Music Workshop at Humboldt State University in Arcata, Calif.

“We have once again expanded our library with wonderful music,” said Clements. “I am especially excited by the strong response of composers to our call to create new music for brass ensembles. Congratulations to the winners, and many thanks to all the fine composers who submitted works.”

The Humboldt Brass Chamber Music Workshop is held each summer in two one-week sessions. 2015 sessions are scheduled for July 19-July 25 and July 26-August 1. Activities include: daily chamber ensemble rehearsals coached by some of the West Coast’s finest brass musicians; daily performances by participants; brass choir reading sessions; abundant freelance playing time; special-interest sessions on brass-related topics; and spectacular California North Coast scenery.

For further information regarding the Humboldt Brass Chamber Music Workshop or the Composition Contest visit http://www.humboldt.edu/brass/