Clarity Festival Brass

A New York City metro area institution since 1945, Clarity Festival Brass has a history dating back from even before 1945. Now known as Clarity Festival Brass, this stalwart of the NY music scene was known as the Red Mike Festival Band until 2017, when Bradley Madsen took over from Louise Acampura (who retired from leading the band at 82). Her husband, Red Mike, ran the band until his passing in 2004 - he founded the band in 1945 after working with legendary band leader Carmine Venezia. Clarity Festival Brass is a fixture throughout the summer at events all over NYC and the surrounding area, including operating as the official band for the Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy every September.

Clarity Festival Brass (and before that, the Red Mike Band) has appeared in numerous television shows and movies over the years - in addition to our most recent appearance in the season 3 premiere of a premiere TV show (to be announced on the airdate), a short list includes The Godfather III, The Year of the Dragon, China Girl, Radio Days, Love Is All There Is, Good Day New York, Jon Stewart Show, ABC Mystery Movies.

Able to perform a wide variety of music, from Italian favorites to marches, jazz, and even pop and rock songs, Clarity Festival Brass is a great addition to any event that wants a strolling band to interact with their guests.

 
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What kinds of events is clarity festival brass best suited for?

We perform lots of different events, from concerts to parades, catholic feasts to weddings. Generally, if you want a brass band that has a wide range of music focusing on Italian repertoire for your event and can interact with crowds well, we are a great fit!

How many musicians are part of the group?

Our group is scalable from 5 pieces for the smallest and shortest events to as large of a group as you desire. Most clients book us in the 6-9 piece range, which does a good job of balancing a desire for a full sounding band with budget requirements.

Will you learn new songs?

With enough notice, we are happy to! Feel free to discuss any repertoire needs with us when you are inquiring about the booking.

Do you travel?

Absolutely - we will travel anywhere in the country. Quotes for travel jobs will incur additional costs and time, but we are happy to go anywhere in the country!

Does your rate exclude anything?

Our rates are all-inclusive. Since the experience is customized for you, it will include everything you request.

Are you insured?

Absolutely - unlike most bands of this nature, we carry full liability insurance to meet the needs of any venue.

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