Brassfire gives new meaning to the phrase “brass band.” Forget parades and floats and twirlers. The fireworks come from a quartet of trumpet players from diverse backgrounds, including Jens Lindemann, one of the best in the world. He was formerly lead trumpet player for Canadian Brass, which he left in 2001 to pursue solo endeavors. “As soloist it’s all on you, all the glory and all the blame. I wanted to get back to that challenge,” Lindemann said.

Brassfire was developed in 2006. The members of the group fluctuate, with up to 11 at one time, but four members is the ideal size, according to Lindemann. Each performer has his own career besides playing with Brassfire. He added that each player chosen for the Grand Junction concert on April 28 is a world-class player.

Lindemann, born in Germany, raised in western Canada, and a professor at University of California in Los Angeles, is no musical snob, although he has plenty to be proud of, including receiving the Order of Canada, the country’s highest civilian honor, and being nominated for a Grammy. Lindemann likes to play in smaller communities. “Locals want all the music that big places get,” he said. “They have a real hunger to see world-class performances, and we’re so much more appreciative of them because of their enthusiasm.”

Lest you think the concert will be all Bach and Handel, let Lindemann disabuse you of that notion. “It’s a concert of serious fun,” he said. “Some of the most exciting qualities touch on aspects and styles of some of the most famous players in history—Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis and Doc Severinsen.” Severinsen is his hero, and Lindemann became a soloist because he admired Severinsen’s ability to engage the audience. He added that one of the most intricate and famous trumpet solos came from “Penny Lane,” recorded by The Beatles.

Lindemann explained that the trumpet is historically the oldest musical instrument, with roots going back to the ram’s horn, blown as a warning or in celebration, and predating the birth of Christ. Although there won’t be any ram’s horns on stage, there will be five different kinds of trumpets, including a flugelhorn and the piccolo trumpet. The trumpet has been influential for over 350 years, first as the most revered instrument of the Baroque period, then moving into its place in R&B and jazz, as well as pop.

“I want to show people that a trumpet can do much more than they think it can,” Lindemann said. “People don’t know that it can be played softly and lyrically, too.” After a particularly rousing piece, he likes to segue into a more pastoral mood to show what the instrument is capable of.

Lindemann calls himself the biggest band geek ever and believes it’s important to nurture a love of playing, whatever the instrument of choice may be, in kids. He loves interacting with students and getting them enthused about playing, and wants to attract middle schoolers and beyond, even teaching master classes for high school bands.

This is the final performance in the Community Concerts of the Grand Valley’s 2018-19 concert series. The matinee performance will take place Sunday, April 28, at the Grand Junction High School auditorium. Doors open at 2:15 and the concert begins at 3 p.m. People start filling the lobby very early, as seating is open and on a first come, first served basis. This concert is included in the 2018-19 CCGV season ticket package. If you don’t have a season ticket package, nonsubscriber tickets are $25 each and can be bought online or at the door, if available. To order tickets, visit www.communityconcertsgrand valley.org. ■