Music is a universal language. This video is proof that the visual differences in humans are trivial and shallow. Underneath it all our similarities far outweigh our differences, the brass bands of the world are a perfect example.
When I watch this i can’t help but be reminded of the countless brass band shows I’ve seen in New Orleans. From the snare and bass drum setup and the lead trumpet solos, to the intricate backing parts and pure energy onstage, the 5,000 miles that separate New Orleans and The Balkan Peninsula seem to disappear.
When you look into the history of brass bands you start to better understand the parallels and what causes them. Both Balkan and New Orleans brass band spawn from a tradition of military style brass ensembles. In Southeastern Europe the military bands date back to the height of the Ottoman Empire. Players from the military bands would learn to play the folk music of their home lands on their brass instruments, thus spawning the music we know today a Balkan Brass.
A very similar thing happened in New Orleans when old instruments from military brass bands and Sousa style marching bands found their way to Congo square, mixing with the native sounds of Africa and the rhythms of New Orleans to create the brass bands we know and love today.
In other news…
Tonight and tonight only! The Dirty Bourbon River Show is back in Knoxville Tennessee at the palace of taps and pizza known as Barley’s!. Show starts at 10:00, come get some pizza before!
-Big Charlie
Dirty Bourbon River Show 