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Many groups dream of becoming a successful band. They practice hard, dedicate themselves to their music, and yet somehow it never becomes a reality. This, however, was not the case for Lancaster’s own Big Boy Brass. Founded in the summer of 2016 by several Millersville University students and Hershey Park band members, the group started by playing on first and third Friday’s in downtown Lancaster until they decided to venture further.
With sounds close to the makings of Lucky Chops, Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Rebirth Brass Band, this 8-piece jazz/pop New Orleans-style band has become popular with Lancaster residents.
Composed of Millersville University juniors Tim Zettlemoyer and Nick Franks, seniors Vincent Shickora and Ben Ewing, Millersville alums Matt Woodson and Connor Devlin, and Lebanon Valley College alum Sam Yoder, this ensemble consists of trombones, a guitar, drums, sousaphone, saxophone and trumpets.
“It’s an awesome experience to play with such great musicians like these guys. You don’t find too many people who are willing to put together a genre of music that’s somewhat lost today among the younger generation,” said Franks. “What really makes it special though is the passionate people around the city of Lancaster who sing and dance along to our music whenever we play. It makes me feel right at home and I’m happy to thank everyone who has supported us along the way and into our future endeavors.”
As a recently featured band on Fly After 5’s list of the top 100 things about Lancaster in 2017, Big Boy Brass just completed the creation of their EP; a live album that was recorded at the Tellus360 rooftop garden. This CD is now available (released 2/2) at any of their shows or at their album release show on Saturday, April 21 at Tellus360. Admission to the show costs $10. Interested parties may also purchase this album on most music streaming services.
For more information, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/BigBoyBrassband/
