Tickets on Sale Now for Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass Concert on June 8 at Gardner-Webb

America’s Premier Large Brass Ensemble Kicks off Inaugural ‘Summer in the Springs’ Concert Series in Brinkley Amphitheater

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass brings its signature sound to the Brinkley Amphitheater stage to begin Gardner-Webb University’s inaugural “Summer in the Springs” Concert Series on June 8. Marsalis has played all over the world, won numerous awards and competitions and received accolades for his evocative interpretation, impeccable virtuosity and beauty of sound.

Tickets are $20; all seats are general admission. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m.

“Summertime and music are synonymous, and what better way to enjoy the Dawg Days of Summer in Boiling Springs than with a series of concerts under the lights at GWU’s new amphitheater,” shared Gardner-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs. “I warmly invite the campus community, as well as our neighbors from across Cleveland County and beyond, to join us for some memorable summer nights!”

Gardner-Webb Associate Professor Tim Hudson has played trumpet with Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass since 2015. He noted that the fun, family-oriented program covers music through time from the Renaissance through today. The concert features an eclectic repertoire, such as music from Earth, Wind and Fire, John Phillip Sousa, “West Side Story,” Dixieland Jazz, Bach, Elvis Presley, and the gospel tune – “Just a Closer Walk with Thee.”  

Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass is dedicated to the notion that music is a gift to be enjoyed by everyone. In their concerts, they strive to connect with the audience. The ensemble is especially dedicated to reaching out to the world’s youth and inspiring them to reach for their dreams.

Performances range from solo trumpet, to brass quintet, to the full 11-piece ensemble with percussion. In recent years, the group has been invited to perform in performing arts centers around the world including China’s National Center for the Performing Arts, Guangzhou Opera House, Tangelwood’s Seiji Ozawa Hall, and prominent performing arts centers throughout the United States, South America, Asia, and Europe.

Second Concert with Carl Cartee and Guests is July 20

The second concert in the series on July 20 features Carl Cartee with special guests Shaylee Simeone and April Cushman. Cartee’s event will raise funds for GWU mission and service trips for students. Tickets are $15 for Cartee and available, here. A third concert planned for Aug. 24 will welcome GWU students back to campus; details will be announced soon.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.