So how was the Friday night Brass Band of Battle Creek concert? In a word: Fantastic.
Picture W.K. Kellogg Auditorium packed to capacity: concert-goers wriggle into their seats in a mood both festive and expectant. Musicians amble on-stage and into place, in black tie (unless you are special guest Doc Severinsen in silver tie). The playing begins and the promise of variety and excellence is then delivered in spades.

We didn’t have to wait long to heat the famed Severinsen; after the opening number, John Williams’ rousing Liberty Fanfare, he entered, dapper, trim and glittery, to display his virtuosity in the insanely ornamental Napoli by Herman Bellstedt.

Severinsen would perform thrice more during the concert; another classic, The Carnival of Venice by Del Staigers, a luscious version of The Wind Beneath My Wings and a rompin’ stompin/ good-time version of Sing, Sing,Sing.

On these last two, Severinsen was joined by Vincent DiMartino. Each of these men plays brilliantly, and together they were terrific with well-considered phrasing and splashy, flashy highs, lows and embellishments.

The Band is, as ever, in great form, performing Herculean material with great skill. Their synchronization is astonishing (as in the complex Dance of the Tumblers) and the warmth of their tones breath-taking (as in the solemn When Jesus Wept).

BBBC programs are always varied, with something for everyone. The range here included Disney melodies, marches and a symphonic work all expertly delivered, yet not always glitch free. These are challenging often risky works. Perfection is dull, this group delivers excellence, superbly

That each section is given moments of prominence is another great feature of the BBBC programs; even the tubas got to shine, becoming much more that musical carpet.
Highlights of the evening were due in large part to some excellent arrangements, notably those of Lugs Maldonado, and conductor Frank Renton’s spectacular arrangement of the Saint-Saens Symphony No.3 Finale

Your next opportunity to hear these marvelous musicians is in June.