Role

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Ensemble

 

Eastman Broadband is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique blend of contemporary and traditional classical music since their inception in 2004. The group is made up of five talented musicians who are all graduates of the prestigious Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York. The members of the group are: Mark Kellogg (trombone), W. Peter Kurau (violin), Renee Jolles (violin), John Graham (viola), and James VanDemark (double bass). The group was formed when Mark Kellogg, who was then a professor of trombone at the Eastman School of Music, had the idea to create a chamber music ensemble that would showcase the talents of the school's faculty. He approached four of his colleagues, all of whom were accomplished musicians in their own right, and together they formed Eastman Broadband. The group's name is a nod to the school where they all met and honed their craft. The term "broadband" refers to the wide range of musical styles and genres that the group incorporates into their performances. They are known for their ability to seamlessly blend classical music with jazz, rock, and other contemporary styles. Eastman Broadband quickly gained a reputation for their innovative and exciting performances. They have performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Lincoln Center. They have also been featured on numerous radio and television programs, including NPR's "Performance Today" and "All Things Considered." One of the highlights of the group's career was their performance at the 2008 International Trombone Festival in Salt Lake City, Utah. The festival is the largest gathering of trombone players in the world, and Eastman Broadband was invited to perform as the featured ensemble. Their performance was met with rave reviews, and they were praised for their technical skill and musicality. In addition to their live performances, Eastman Broadband has also released several critically acclaimed albums. Their debut album, "Eastman Broadband," was released in 2006 and featured a mix of classical and contemporary pieces. The album was praised for its innovative arrangements and virtuosic performances. The group's second album, "The Music of Frank Zappa," was released in 2010 and featured arrangements of some of Zappa's most iconic songs. The album was a departure from the group's usual repertoire, but it was met with critical acclaim and helped to expand their fan base. Eastman Broadband has also been recognized for their contributions to the world of classical music. In 2011, they were awarded the prestigious ASCAP/CMA Adventurous Programming Award. The award is given to ensembles that demonstrate a commitment to performing new and innovative works, and Eastman Broadband was recognized for their ability to blend classical and contemporary music in a way that is both accessible and exciting. In addition to their performances and recordings, the members of Eastman Broadband are also accomplished educators. They have all held positions at the Eastman School of Music, and they have also taught at other prestigious institutions around the world. They are committed to passing on their knowledge and passion for music to the next generation of musicians. In conclusion, Eastman Broadband is a classical music ensemble that has made a significant impact on the world of classical music.

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