Mon Valley arts academy creates new brass quintet

Take 5 Brass will join the academy’s roster of performance groups.

The Mon Valley Academy for the Arts announced the formation of its newest musical group, Take 5 Brass.

Under the direction of Ken Coffman, the ensemble features Sam Volldstadt, Ethan Rumbaugh, Korbin Andrews, Lucas Salaway and Evan Lee.

Take 5 Brass will debut alongside the Sam Bill Legacy Band at a series of performances in the coming months, starting with a performance at the Hiller Fire Hall on Sept. 8.

On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Take 5 Brass will honor veterans with a special performance at the Brownsville Sons of Italy.

MVAA President Annette Buffer said she is excited to see the new group unfold.

“We are thrilled to introduce ‘Take 5 Brass’ to our community,” Buffer said. “This quintet embodies the spirit of innovation and excellence we strive for at MVAA.

“We invite everyone to join us at these upcoming performances to experience the powerful sound of brass and support our region’s talented musicians.”

Buffer said the MVAA is committed to providing affordable, high-quality music and arts instruction for Mon Valley youth and Take 5 Brass is a fitting addition to an already impressive roster.

“The addition of ‘Take 5 Brass’ to our roster of performance groups reflects our ongoing dedication to enriching our community’s cultural landscape,” Buffer said.

It will join established MVAA groups including the Twin Coaches Jr. Stage Band, VoiceZ on Fire, the Regimental Fife & Drum Unit and the Sam Bill Legacy Band.

The group’s debut comes on the heels of an announcement of a new program aimed to help students remain involved in the music and arts programs they are passionate about across all MVAA locations and programs.

“Empower a Rising Star” launched Aug. 18.

EARS is aimed at providing music lessons to students in grades 4-11.

The program is looking for support from individuals, organizations and businesses who want to get involved to sponsor music lessons for young, aspiring musicians.

A $250 sponsorship will cover the cost of 10 music lesson sessions for a student.

“This will help to nurture their musical talents and providing them with opportunities they might not otherwise have,” Buffer said.

Sponsorships will be accepted until Sept. 15.

Once all sponsorships are collected, the funds will be tallied and scholarships will be distributed to existing and prospective new students. Priority will be given to those who indicate financial need, ensuring the resources reach those who need them most.

Sponsors also have the option to support more than one student, with each additional sponsorship costing $250 per student.

“We are incredibly excited to launch the ‘Empower a Rising Star’ initiative,” Buffer said. “This program embodies our mission to make music education accessible to all children, regardless of their financial circumstances.”

By sponsoring a student, you are not just funding lessons but investing in their future, dreams, and potential.”

Sponsorships will be awarded to students for classes starting in October.

To sponsor a “rising star” or for more information, call 724-561-5616 or email info@monvalleyacademyforthearts. org.

For more information about the performances, “Take 5 Brass,” and other MVAA programs, please call us 724565-1687 or go to monvalleyacademyforthearts. org.