The Unique Sound of the “Ventura British Brass”
Unlike most popular brass ensembles in the United States our British Brass Band is a unique ensemble, with a very specific instrumentation, utilizing cornets, not trumpets and alto horns not French horns. The rich, dark, and mellow tone quality you hear stems from the fact that all the instruments, except the trombones, are conical bore in design, therefore permitting the brass band to produce a most unique and different sound.
Originating in Britain, it is naturally quite popular in the commonwealth countries and has become very popular throughout Europe and the rest of the world. For many years the movement was kept alive in the United States largely by the Salvation Army’s influence. Our music repertoire is unusually flexible; a typical concert program may consist of anything from original works, orchestral transcriptions with featured soloists, novelty items, marches, medleys and hymn tune arrangements. All our music was originally brought over from England by our founder Anne Booth.
The Ventura British Brass was formed in the summer of 2005 with no more than 8 players. Our first rehearsal was held at Henson’s music shop in Oxnard. We are steadily growing and continue to invite experienced musicians to join us; a full band consists of 25 brass instruments and 3 percussion.
We rehearse every Tuesday evening at the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Camarillo, with the exception of the 1st Tuesday of each month then you can find us at the Channel Island Yacht Club!
Our conductor Mr. Gary Engels was born in the Netherlands and brings to the band a repertoire of experience.
We sincerely hope you enjoy the unique sound of the “Ventura British Brass”
Anne Booth (founder)