The Gateways Brass Collective has presented dynamic performances and inspirational educational programs since 2018.

The Gateways Brass Collective is quickly becoming one of the most exciting and talked-about brass ensembles in the country. As a resident ensemble of the Gateways Music Festival—an organization dedicated to spotlighting and empowering professional classical musicians of African descent—the quintet embodies artistic excellence, cultural inspiration, and musical storytelling at the highest level.

Featuring an all-star lineup of virtuosos—Herbert Smith and Courtney Jones, trumpets, Larry Williams, horn, Isrea Butler, trombone and Jerome Stover, tuba. This dynamic ensemble brings unmatched energy, polish, and passion to every stage they touch.

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BRING GATEWAYS BRASS COLLECTIVE
TO YOUR COMMUNITY

From concert halls and campuses to schools and community spaces, the Gateways Brass Collective brings brilliant musicianship, dynamic masterclass instruction and the full artistry of Gateways wherever they perform.

Interested in presenting the Collective or exploring a partnership?

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RECENT + UPCOMING EVENTS

  • GATEWAYS BRASS COLLECTIVE AT DISNEY’S THANKSGIVING PARADE OF BANDS

    THU. NOV 26 | 12:00 PM
    Walt Disney World, Orlando, FL
    Watch Online

    The Gateways Brass Collective continues its national performance and education work at Walt Disney World Resort’s Thanksgiving Parade of Bands.

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  • 2026 GATEWAYS FALL FESTIVAL

    OCTOBER 9–12
    Rochester, NY

    Celebrating the depth, range, and expanding possibilities of Black artistry in classical music. Explore the artists, programs, and moments that made the 2026 Fall Festival unforgettable.

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  • Upcoming Gateways Events

    View all upcoming Gateways events, performances, and programs, and make your plans to join us for what’s next.

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Previous Programs + Events

ABOUT THE MUSICIANS

Photo Credit: Adam Fenster (Courtney Jones, Herb Smith, Isrea Butler) and Doug Cupid (Larry Williams, Jerome Stover).

Video

The Gateways Brass Collective strives to support diverse communities, encourages everyone to be a part of the larger musical discourse, and welcomes opportunities to collaborate with artists from all backgrounds. Be sure to view a few of our performances below.

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Photo Gallery

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Photo Credit: Patrick Gibson / Ravinia

Photo Credit: Patrick Gibson / Ravinia

Photo Credit: Patrick Gibson / Ravinia

Photo Credit: Patrick Gibson / Ravinia

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Photo Credit:

Photo Credit:

Photo Credit: Fadi Kheir

Photo Credit: Fadi Kheir

Photo Credits: Patrick Gibson / Ravinia

What People Say About Us

  • “I’ve had the opportunity to see Gateway’s Brass Collective many times and they continue to bring new flavors of chamber music to the forefront every time I see them. We are grateful to be partners with them in support of music education and look forward to continuing our journey together for many years to come!”

    Mike Kamphuis, VP Sales and Marketing, Conn Selmer

  • "The Gateways Brass Collective is one of our premier chamber ensembles. They perform engaging programs at the highest level of artistry. Additionally, they are committed to educating the next generation of musicians, with their individual and collective dedication to teaching being a significant part of their mission. I was proud to have them as a featured performing ensemble during the 2023 Midwest Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.”

    Rodney Dorsey, President, Midwest Clinic Board of Directors

  • "The Gateways Brass Collective is the most innovative American chamber ensemble in existence today."

    Joseph Alessi, Principal Trombone NY Philharmonic

  • “Good morning. Bravo👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 I was amazed at your performance this morning. To see 5 men who look like me performing for Texas band directors. Looking forward to your clinic later this week.”

    Anonymous