At its August 2018 meeting, the board of directors of Minnesota Brass (MBI) voted to pursue an all-age drum and bugle corps to compete during the 2019 summer season.

After many months of refocusing and listening to stakeholders, the board determined there is sufficient interest to pursue a competitive drum corps in 2019. The organization is committed to returning a combination of performance excellence, a manageable schedule and reasonable dues to the upper Midwest. MBI will offer great design, excellent teaching, more alumni outreach, transparent communication and improved logistics to its 2019 membership.

The creative and educational program will be led by long-time Minnesota Brass program coordinator Joel Matuzak. Additional details will be coming regarding staff, structure, the competitive arena and schedule.

The organization will host a Town Hall meeting on Sept. 26, 2018, for all those interested in the future of Minnesota Brass. At the meeting, results of a recent stakeholder-engagement project will be shared. In addition, there will be an opportunity for alumni and volunteers to learn about the critical need for their active participation in the organization for its successful return to the field. The Town Hall meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 26, at the offices of Olsen-Thielen & Co., 2675 Long Lake Road, Roseville, Minn., 55113.

Essential to the success of the 2019 summer program is for all people who are passionate about the organization to be a part of it. MBI has needs in the areas of management, recruiting, teaching, performing and fund-raising.

To that end, MBI is also immediately announcing the launch of a search process to fill the following leadership positions (with stipends): Executive Director, Operations Director and Membership Director. A search committee comprising board members, lead staff and alumni will make recommendations to the board regarding the filling of these positions. Applications are due October 5, 2018. Detailed job descriptions are now available online.

The current executive team of Gavin Burnham (President/CEO), Todd Tanji (Executive Director), Dave Whitaker (Chief Financial Officer) and Eric Molho (Board Chair) plan to transition responsibilities for the day-to-day management of the organization to the new administrative team as it is formed. All of these leaders are committed to the success of Minnesota Brass and will serve as mentors and resources to the new administrative team as it develops a new vision for Minnesota Brass.

The opportunity now exists to bring this amazing organization back to the field in 2019. But it will not be accomplished by a small group. Everyone who cares about MBI and its future can take part in a great 2019 season. THIS WON’T WORK WITHOUT YOU!