2014 International Women's Brass Conference

This week I had the pleasure of meeting and reuniting with extraordinary women at the International Women's Brass Conference at Northern Kentucky University.  I am a proud member of this organization, and while we are together celebrating many of our achievements, there is unfortunately still a need to have the conference today.  I still get asked troublesome questions after concerts that I will not give validity by repeating, but it is not uncommon to have audience members exclaim to  my colleagues and I "I didn't know that women could play brass instruments!" or be surprised to see a young woman such as myself leading a horn section. 
While I was happy to present my dissertation research at the conference, one of the most special moments happened while watching the Monarch Brass Ensemble.  The incomparable Marie Speziale led the group in an outstanding concert, and finished by filling the stage with successful women in brass. She pointed out that while we have so much to celebrate, there are still countries where this could and would never happen today.  In that spirit, the group performed the Vienna Philharmonic Fanfare in a passionate rendition. We need to continue to celebrate women in music and to promote our achievements and the barriers broken by so many special women.  Thanks to everyone for making it such an unforgettable week, and I look forward to the next one!

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