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Piece by Master Sgt. Tara Islas to be Featured at International Convention

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Bob Kamholz
Washington, D.C. --  The nationally recognized, all-women brass ensemble Monarch Brass, will be performing an original composition by Master Sgt. Tara Islas of the U.S. Air Force Band's Ceremonial Brass. The performance is part of the 2017 International Women's Brass Conference, which is being held at Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ from June 7-10.

According to Islas, the piece, titled "Ascent to the Summit," won the 2016 Dallas Winds Fanfare Competition. The work was up against 128 other entrants in the competition, which included seven winners in various categories. When asked about her accomplishment, Islas replied, "I'm proud to be recognized as a nationally renowned composer, who serves her country with The United States Air Force Band."  

The piece is scored for five trumpets, four french horns, three trombones, bass trombone, euphonium, tuba, timpani, and two percussionists. This new work for brass and percussion ensemble received its premier in November of 2016 by The Dallas Winds.

Other works written or arranged by Islas have also been featured on several high profile performances by the Ceremonial Brass. On Independence Day 2016, "Strike Up the Band" was performed live on NBC's TODAY show and viewed by millions across the county. Her music has also been featured on ceremonies for the Secretary of the Air Force and during side-by-side clinics for Wounded Warriors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

The International Women's Brass Conference aims to educate, develop, support and promote women brass musicians while inspiring continued excellence and opportunities in the broader musical world. Membership is open to all women and men who would like to support this effort.

"I'm grateful for the opportunities to use my talent to spread our message of excellence, integrity, and service before self," says Islas. "It's an honor to be featured at the conference."

The premier is available to watch online by visiting: "Ascent to the Summit."

Monarch Brass is a nationally recognized, all-women brass ensemble whose members are outstanding women brass players from North America's top symphony orchestras and universities. Their performance is scheduled for Saturday, June 10 at 7:30 p.m. in Pfleeger Concert Hall on the campus of Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey. For more information on the live performance, please visit: Monarch Brass Tickets