Sound and musical performance practice of Austrian brass bands
Performing arts throughout Austria, inscribed 2023
The sound and musical performance practice of Austrian brass bands first blossomed in the 19th century within the regimental bands of the imperial and royal infantry regiments. The typical sound of this musical practice is achieved using brass instruments with a wider bore, such as the flugelhorn and tenor horn/baritone, which produce a mellow timbre. These brass bands are not only characterised by their distinctive sound, but also by their unique repertoire, formation, regional dress and, above all, constant development. Today, this practice is kept alive and nurtured by over 140,000 brass musicians across 2,185 bands and 1,276 youth orchestras.
Since its emergence, Austrian brass music has become an integral part of social life in both urban and rural areas. The 20th century witnessed a particular upsurge in amateur brass music and led to the foundation of the ‘Österreichischer Blasmusikverband’ (Austrian Brass Music Association), giving rise to a broad-based movement. Austrian brass music thus combines tradition and modernity in a remarkable way. In addition to safeguarding traditional pieces, the repertoire is constantly expanded through the commissioning of new and contemporary compositions. The ‘Marketender*innen’ (sutlers) and ‘Stabführer*innen’ (baton leaders) at the head of the bands are also key to brass music. The traditional costumes consisting of miners' smocks and uniforms, which have strong ties to the respective regions, not only endow the bands with cultural significance, but also serve an important social purpose. The brass musicians are organised into associations at the district, provincial, and national level. Anyone who is interested can participate, regardless of gender, heritage, or social status. Brass music brings people of different generations together and fosters social inclusion and democracy. It plays a major role in society and is an integral feature at events and festivals in both urban and rural areas.
However, the practice of brass music is also facing challenges such as demographic change, shifting recreational habits, and regulatory constraints. Together with other associations and bands, the Austrian Brass Music Association is committed to carrying out activities to safeguard and further develop the artistic, organisational, and social aspects of brass music in order to secure its future. Besides public relations efforts, these activities primarily include supporting young Austrian composers, new types of concerts, competitions, music outreach projects, and the individual support of musicians. The sound and musical performance practice of Austrian brass bands thus retains its vitality and continues to evolve.
Contact
Österreichischer Blasmusikverband
Hauptplat 10
9800 Spittal an der Drau
office@blasmusik.at
www.blasmusik.at
Hauptplat 10
9800 Spittal an der Drau
office@blasmusik.at
www.blasmusik.at
Downloads
- Application form (in German only) 1 MB (pdf)
- Expertise Gasche (in German only) 635 KB (pdf)
- Expertise Sagrillo (in German only) 236 KB (pdf)
Gallery
© ÖBV
ID: 1643
