*
banner

Report & Results: 2014 US Open Championship

Fountain City make it four in a row to remain the top entertainers in the USA.

Fountain City
 

Fountain City Band conducted by Dr Joseph Parisi claimed a fourth consecutive US Open title in St Charles, Illinois on the weekend.

Dominate

It was the Kansas City band’s seventh victory in the last eight years at America’s premier entertainment championship and saw them once again dominate their rivals with their 25 minute programme.

Fountain City, with their prize winning percussion section on tip top form, opened with Paul Lovatt-Cooper’s ‘When Eagles Sing’.

Their solo talents were shown by a stunning rendition of the traditional polka solo ‘Cleopatra’ played by Chris Larios, as well as Dr Ryan Sharp on soprano and Roger Caliman on kit featuring on a thumping new rendition of ‘Birdland’ by Lee Harrelson.

The finale saw an intriguing segue from the famous ’Largo’ from ‘A New World Symphony’ into the last section of Philip Harper’s ‘The Divine Right’

Delighted MD

The band’s delighted MD Dr Joseph Parisi, felt that the result was once again down to the immense hard work and commitment of his players.

“We thoroughly enjoyed putting this performance together,” he told 4BR. “And I feel it demonstrated FCBB's ability to switch styles and genres within the 25 minute programme.”

New concept

He added: “A new concept we tried this year was to bring everyone together a week before the competition. The group’s geographic footprint has grown since members have taken positions spanning a great distance in North America (from Texas to Canada).

As a result, Lee and I met and discussed the importance of keeping long-time members active in the band. We both believe it is crucial that we have people in the band who understand FCBB’s philosophy, work ethic, and overall concept of sound.

In an effort to do so, we decided to have a one week intensive rehearsal schedule that would allow many of our relocated members to come back and perform with the band.

This was an experiment, but I believe I speak for all when I say we enjoyed the intense focus and process during the week. It was an enjoyable programme to put together and share with all who attended the competition.”

Veteran's Tribute

The Dublin Silver Band returned to the podium spots after coming fourth last year, as their moving ‘Veteran’s Tribute’ caught the ear of adjudicators Dr. Eric Yates and Dr. Paul Bauer, to also claim take the ‘Most Entertaining’ prize. The band’s Josh Jameson also took the award for the ‘Best New Work’ for ‘Supreme Sacrifice’.

Meanwhile, Central Ohio came a fine third with a set themed on magic and wizardry, which included the ‘Best March’ performance of ‘Mephistopheles’.

Solo prize

Euphonium player Dr Don Deal of Madison Brass Band won the sought after ‘Best Soloist’ award for his fine rendition of ’Endearing Young Charms’, whilst the ever popular Friday night ‘Busker’s Prize’ saw a tie between Dublin Silver Band and Prairie Brass Band.

In an effort to do so, we decided to have a one week intensive rehearsal schedule that would allow many of our relocated members to come back and perform with the bandMD. Dr Joseph Parisi

Results:

Music/Entertainment = Total
Adjudicators: Dr. Eric Yates, Dr. Paul Bauer and Adam Frey (solo judge)

1. Fountain City Brass Band (Dr. Joseph Parisi): 196/44 = 240
2. Dublin Silver Band (Tim Jameson): 188/48 = 236
3. Central Ohio Brass Band (Jessica Sneeringer): 179/39 = 218
4. Eastern Iowa Brass Band (Alexander Beamer): 177/37 = 214
5. Prairie Brass Band (Mary Barnes-Gingrich): 167/33 = 200
6. Madison Brass Band (Craig Mason): 163/35 = 198

Most Entertaining: Dublin Silver Band
Best March: Central Ohio Brass Band (Mephistopheles)
Best Soloist: Dr. Don Deal (Madison Brass Band)
Best Percussion: Fountain City Brass Band
Best New Work: Josh Jameson (Dublin Silver Band) for ‘Supreme Sacrifice’

Busker Prize: Dublin Silver Band & Prairie Brass Band (tie)

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


4BR podcast

4BR British Open preview

September 2 • Join us on air on Wednesday evening to give us your views and opinions ahead of the 171st British Open Championships at Symphony Hall.


British Open

New additions to prize list at British Open

September 2 • The new champion will bag a record cash prize whilst a new cornet award adds to the individual accolades on offer at Symphony Hall this weekend.


Alexander Richter

Richter award for pioneering brass band advocacy

September 2 • Alexander Richter has been presented with the prestigious Eitelfriedrich-Thom Award.


Ashley DIXON

Ashley's life affirming donation

September 2 • The Foden's baritone player Ashley Dixon has donated her life giving stem cells to help a father of two children.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Rushden Town Band

September 2 • 2nd Trombone position has become vacant as current holder off to University. Rehearsals Mondays and Wednesday at Rushden Hall. RTB is a friendly 1st Section band who have recently come back from their second tour abroad and also released their first CD.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

September 2 • Are you moving to the West Midlands this autumn or possibly fancy a change of bandroom scenery? The band are looking to recruit an Eb bass and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


Cross Keys Silver Band

September 2 • We're looking for a 2nd Trombone player to join a strong section in a 2nd Section band based in South Wales. We have a number of community engagements and contests lined up for the rest of the year and into 2026. Rehearsals are from 19:30 on Tuesdays.


Martyn Evans

BEd (Hons) NABBC member
Conductor, Band Trainer, Teacher, Adjudicator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd