Big Top Brass, Conducted by Nicholas J. Contorno

      The American Experience

A Celebration of Freedom and the American Spirit!

    For more than two hundred years, music has been a part of the events that shaped the United States of America. In times of conflict, from embattled ramparts, patriotic melodies have carried with them the power and glory of not just a nation, but a world rising to meet the hopes and challenges of a relentless future. In times of peace, the music helps to relive the times, the people and the events that reflected the joys of American culture at it's best.

    This album contains all the best of Americana with a capital "A"! The best patriotic melodies by the best composers of their time. The top tunes of American entertainment from Vaudeville to the pulsating rhythms of the circus center ring.

    Under the baton of Dr. Nicholas J. Contorno of Marquette University, the Big Top Brass renders the music of America with spirit and a great deal of nationalism. Listen as the band demonstrates the understanding of the phrasings, how to use the underlying compositional devices and acknowledges the musical subtleties. True musicians, like true athletes, are rare and hard to find. Dr. Contorno knows where to look for them.

    Come with us now and revive the power of patriotism and pride through these great American marches and discover the whimsy of Lassus Trombone, and the passion of God Bless America. Enjoy these and many more classic miniatures reflecting some of the finest moments in developing American Culture and the building of a nation. - Jim Krofta