Not readily used in orchestral music until the mid- nineteenth century, brass is now one of the three primary colors of the orchestra (strings and woodwinds being the other two). Our opening concert of the season explores the versatility of orchestral brass, from chamber works, to major symphonic masterpieces, to a little bit of jazz.

We are excited to welcome to the stage for the very first time as music director and conductor, Hisham Bravo Groover.

Robert Baca is Professor of Trumpet and Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Other duties include teaching Jazz Improvisation, Jazz History, directing Jazz Ensembles I & II, and coordinating one of the nation’s largest jazz festival. Mr. Baca’s background includes numerous performances in both classical and commercial areas. Mr. Baca has performed with the Milwaukee Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra and is a current member of the Phillip Brunelle “Plymouth Music Series Orchestra” as well as a past member of the popular radio ensemble for Garrison Keilor’s “A Prairie Home Companion.”

Joyce Lyons Making her home base in Minnesota, Joyce Lyons (AEA, SAG-AFTRA) has been bringing her swinging, sassy and straight to the heart performances to audiences all over the country. Once hailed as “What Cabaret is All About,” Joyce spent over 30 years in New York City performing in cabaret, clubs, musical theater and even tested the late- night waters of standup comedy. With her keen sense of the lyric, musicianship, acting and wit, Lyons’ performances have brought audiences to tears and to their feet.

Gabrieli: Canzon duodecimi toni
Bach: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring
Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4, 1st Movement
Bruckner: Symphony No. 4, 3rd Movement
Proto: Carmen Fantasy for Trumpet and Orchestra
Eli Grajkowski: It’s Been A Long, Long Time
– Robert Baca, Trumpet
– Joyce Lyons, Vocal
– Buffalo High School Jazz Ensemble/BCO