District of Columbia Brass Quintet

Established in 2008, the District of Columbia Brass Quintet (DCBQ) has been continuously performing since that time.  The DCBQ was established by three physicians who enjoyed playing holiday music for patients at the MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital.  The principals decided to form a group, and, since they were all brass players, a brass quintet was an ideal choice.  A brass quintet music library was initiated and the fledgling group rehearsed.  The initial concert was presented to family members in an outdoor setting.  The group was on its way.

Since that time, the repertoire and library have expanded to include: classical music, hymns, patriotic music, rock music, Latin music,  popular music and country music in the form of brass quintet.  At various times, adjunctive instruments are added: percussion and keyboard.  The group has commissioned arrangements for performance.  Some pieces have been arranged by members of the group.

The District of Columbia Brass Quintet has performed around the DMV for a variety of audiences including professional gatherings, independent living centers, private events and, of course, the hospital of origin.

The group rehearses weekly to work on new music and polish the music that has been played before.  The setlists are tailored to the request of the performance venue.  The broad base of music in the library permits adjustment to meet the needs of those venues.

Although we play brass quintet music, we have players regularly added our basic group which technically makes us a sextet or septet (per some pictures in the Gallery Section).   In addition, the group doubles its capacity, District of Columbia Brass Quintet and Brass Friends, for our annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day Tribute Concerts.  These concerts are traditionally performed at the MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital with volunteers, many of whom have performed year after year.  The goal is to honor those who are or have served - patients, patient families and staff members.  We also invite other Brass Friends to join us for the Holiday Caroling on the hospital units.  This is done annually, as well.

Although this is a group comprised of amateur musicians, we are passionate about playing this music, and we enjoy the journey of making music together.