The Jericho Brass

Chattanooga, TN

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jericho Brass?

Jericho Brass is a Chattanooga-based, British-style brass band which includes traditional brass band instrumentation and plays selections appropriate to that type of group. Instruments include cornets (E-flat and B-flat), flugelhorn, e-flat tenor horns, euphoniums, baritones, trombones, bass trombone, tubas (E-flat and B-flat), and percussion. It is an all-volunteer band and members are not financially compensated for participation. Current instrumentation calls for approximately 28 players. Several members have “converted” from their own instrument to one required in the standard brass band (from French horn to tenor, trumpet to cornet, etc.) Though we are not officially connected with the Salvation Army, that organization allows Jericho Brass to use their practice facilities and their music library.

Our directors are qualified, experienced, and well trained in the brass band venue. An elected board directs our activities and assists the directors in decision making. The Salvation Army provides book keeping assistance, use of practice facilities, music, and a tax-deductible avenue for gifts and honorariums.

 What is the mission of the Jericho Brass?

Our mission is to enrich the lives of the players and listeners through diligent rehearsal and performance of quality brass band literature.

Who can be in the band?

Jericho Brass is open to players of college-level ability or higher. Availability of chairs is limited in certain sections. No audition is routinely required, though potential members will need to interview with the director or associate director. New members must be recommended by the director(s) and approved by the Board. Our music can be challenging, and a certain level of proficiency is expected. Members provide their own instruments. (Jericho Brass owns some of the larger percussion instruments like timpani, crash cymbals and bass drum.) Some members have borrowed rarer instruments from the Salvation Army until they could obtain their own 

Traditional “bass clef” readers (trombones, tubas, etc.) are expected to read treble clef, as that is how brass band music is written. Reading treble clef is usually quickly accomplished with a little practice.

When and where do you practice?

We rehearse every Monday night from 7:30 until 9:30 PM at the Salvation Army Citadel, North Moore Road, across from Brainard High School. Members are expected to arrive in plenty of time to warm up and be ready to begin promptly at 7:30. Regular individual practice and attendance at rehearsals is expected.

Where do you perform?

Jericho Brass plays for community functions, churches, civic events, and special programs. Our performance schedule averages about twice a month. We do not charge a set fee for performances, but donations are gladly accepted. We try to avoid Sunday morning performances and conflicts with the church responsibilities of our members. Performances are scheduled well in advance so members can plan accordingly. Participating members are expected to attend performances.

Jericho Brass occasionally plays engagements outside the Chattanooga area. These are planned well in advance so transportation can be organized.

Do you have a uniform?

Jericho Brass owns and maintains a formal dress uniform for each member. Performing members of the group will be issued a uniform at the beginning of the concert season. Members are expected to keep these uniforms in good order and wear them at appropriate occasions. Minor alterations (pant cuffs, etc.) are the responsibility of the individual member. The members will provide their own black dress shoes, black socks, and a white, dress shirt (non-button down) to wear with the uniform.

 Who schedules performances?

Organizations requesting a performance can do so through any band member. Final approval of specific commitments is subject to the review of the directors.

What about music?

Jericho Brass plays all types of quality brass band music: marches, overtures, hymns, popular, etc. Our heavy schedule of church concerts naturally slants our repertoire toward appropriate church music. Our band includes several talented arrangers who provide unique arrangements especially for the group. The music is selected to be challenging and rewarding for each player. It is generally demanding enough to require individual practice outside of the regular group rehearsal.

Members will be provided with a folder and copies of all music (no charge.) This music is the property of the band and must not be lost or destroyed. Many members who share folders make a photocopy of their music in order to have their own practice copy.

Music stands are available at the rehearsal hall, but each member is responsible for bringing his/her own stand to each performance. Good, heavy-duty stands can be purchased at most local music stores for $20 to $35.

What if I have to miss a rehearsal or concert?

Every member is expected to be at each scheduled meeting unless hindered by unavoidable situations- illness, out of town, etc. We anticipate that members will have situations that will keep them from their Jericho Brass responsibilities. We also expect, however, that those situations will be exceptions, not regular occurrences. Those failing to attend regularly will be asked to turn in their folders. Jericho Brass members feel a personal responsibility to the group, to the music, and to our listener. Our objective is always to produce the best music of which we are capable, in rehearsal or in performance.

How is the band governed?

The band is administered by a Board of Directors which includes the musical director, assistant director, five members elected by the band for a two-year term, plus several “at-large” board members selected from the community served by Jericho Brass. The Board assists in decisions such as music selection, member approval, performance selection, and expenditures. Board meetings (generally held once a month) are open to any band member. Jericho Brass has a set of formal by laws by which the band is administered (copy available to any member or perspective member.)