Brass music for the Twin Cities.
A community ensemble of student, amateur, and professional brass and percussion players, performing for our neighbors.
What we do
The Minneapolis Brass Ensemble is a Minnesota nonprofit and a 501(c)(3) organization. Our work rests on three commitments.
Perform
We enrich the Twin Cities community through live performances of brass music.
Belong
We offer membership in a high-quality ensemble that gives players a sense of collegiality and pride in their musicianship.
Connect
We partner with other musicians and ensembles to strengthen the network of local amateur musicians and composers.
We are generously supported by St. John’s Lutheran Church, which provides our rehearsal and concert space.
Concerts
Our next performance:
- When
- Sunday, November 22, 2026, at 2 pm
- Where
- St. John’s Lutheran Church
4842 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Get directions - Parking
- The lot is north of the building, reached from Rustic Lodge Ave off Nicollet Ave.
- Admission
- Free. A freewill donation is suggested. Give online
Save the dates
These dates are tentative. Times and programs will be posted here.
More concerts will be announced here as they are scheduled.
Watch and listen
Hear the ensemble perform works by Minnesota composers.
Our members
The musicians of the Minneapolis Brass Ensemble. Roster updated summer 2026.
John G. Clemons
Conductor
John G. Clemons conducts the Minneapolis Brass Ensemble and is Director of Bands at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, where he leads the Wind Orchestra and Wind Symphony and teaches conducting and instrumental methods. A former public school teacher in Illinois and Indiana, he holds a Master of Music in wind conducting from Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Illinois.
Trumpet
- Timothy Blotz
- Steve Hillson
- Greg Hiniker
- Ryan Stransky
Horn
- Gerald Abraham
- Elizabeth Hainlen
- Jim McCreary
- Lynn Stoerzinger
Trombone
- Michael Cramer
- Bob Hainlen
- Eric Stewart
- Doug Whiteside
Euphonium
- Richard Burt
Tuba
- David King
Percussion
- Julie O. Henry
In rehearsal
A look at the ensemble at work. Tap any photo to enlarge it.
Help keep the music going
Gifts to the Minneapolis Brass Ensemble support rehearsals, music, and concerts for our community. We are a 501(c)(3) organization, and contributions may be tax deductible.
Play with us, or get in touch
Membership is open to adult brass and percussion players who share our goals. New members are welcomed based on the ensemble’s needs and approval by the board.
- Season
- September through June, with two to three major concerts.
- Rehearsals
- Two hours each, about twice a month, on Saturday mornings at St. John’s.
- Annual dues
- $100 per member.
Not sure you’re ready to commit? Consider joining our group of generous subs, who help fill in when one of our regular members is away.
Get in touch
Questions about membership, concerts, or giving? Reach the board at minneapolisbrass@gmail.com.
Follow our news and updates on Facebook.