Concluding the 2025-26 Concert Season is River City Brass who take us on a journey that features a –

Summer Brasstacular!

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River City Brass is a full-time professional brass band that is dedicated to bringing its music into local communities where audiences reside. They offer a wide variety of repertoire and a unique and personable experience for all patrons! Their mission is to entertain, engage, and educate audiences of all ages by sharing American musical culture in the Pittsburgh region, nationally, and internationally. 

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JAMES GOURLAY, ARTISTIC & GENERAL DIRECTOR 

James Gourlay was born in Scotland, where, at the age of ten, he was “volunteered” to play in his school brass band. Being the tallest in class, he was serendipitously given the tuba, an instrument he loves and continues to promote all over the world.   Gourlay’s career as a chamber musician and soloist continues to flourish. He has been a member of the Philip Jones and English Brass ensembles with which he has toured the world, and also continues to perform as a soloist extensively. His commitment to music education is a continuing passion. He has been Head of Wind and Percussion at the Royal Northern College of Music and Deputy Principal and Music Director at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Salford University, a Masters degree from Leeds University, a Fellowship of the Royal Northern College of Music, a Fellowship of the London College of Music, and is also a recipient of the Henry Iles Medal, presented by the Worshipful Company of Musicians for services to the Brass Band Movement. Currently, Gourlay is International Vice President of the International Tuba and Euphonium Association and Artistic Director of the River City Brass.

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