The Gateways Brass Collective is quickly becoming one of the most exciting and talked-about brass ensembles in the country. As a resident ensemble of the Gateways Music Festival, the quintet embodies artistic excellence, cultural inspiration, and musical storytelling at the highest level. Featuring an all-star lineup of virtuosos—Herbert Smith and Courtney Jones on trumpet, Larry Williams on horn, Isrea Butler on trombone, and Jerome Stover on tuba—this dynamic ensemble brings unmatched energy, polish, and passion to every stage they touch.

The Gateways Brass Collective has made standout appearances at some of the nation’s most influential music gatherings, including the Midwest Clinic, Ravinia Festival, International Trombone Festival (ITF), Texas Bandmasters Association Convention (TBA), NAMM Show, Conn Selmer Institute, HBCU National Band and Orchestra Directors’ Consortium, and the El Sistema USA National Symposium.

Their performances have lit up world-class venues—from Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Eastman School of Music, Cleveland Institute of Music, and even Walt Disney World—earning them praise for their captivating blend of artistry, versatility, and audience engagement.

Equally sensational in classical, jazz, and contemporary music, the members of the Gateways Brass Collective bring with them an extraordinary range of experience, having performed with legendary ensembles and icons such as the Count Basie Orchestra, Mingus Big Band, Duke Ellington Orchestra, Frank Sinatra Band, Arturo Sandoval, Ray Charles, Terence Blanchard, Earth, Wind & Fire, The Roots, as well as major orchestras including the Rochester Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, Boston Symphony, and New World Symphony.

With their signature sound, charismatic stage presence, and commitment to artistic excellence, the Gateways Brass Collective is not only redefining the modern brass quintet—they are thrilling audiences and elevating live performance wherever they go.