MACON, Ga. — Townsend School of Music will shine a spotlight on women’s artistry and leadership through two spring performances in its Jubilee Artists Series, featuring the acclaimed brass ensemble Seraph Brass and Grammy Award-winning pianist Michelle Cann. Together, the events highlight the series’ commitment to providing artistic excellence that is accessible on campus and to the wider community, while elevating women’s voices in classical music. Tickets are on sale now.
Seraph Brass will take the stage on Feb. 5. Now in its 11th season, Seraph Brass was founded by trumpet soloist Mary Elizabeth Bowden with a mission to showcase the excellence of women brass players and highlight musicians from marginalized groups through both personnel and programming. Winners of the American Prize in Chamber Music, the ensemble has earned praise for its “beautiful sounds” (American Record Guide), “fine playing” (Gramophone), and “staggeringly high caliber of performance” (Textura).
On March 13, the Jubilee Artists Series has its season finale with pianist Cann. Lauded as “exquisite” by The Philadelphia Inquirer and “a pianist of sterling artistry” by Gramophone, Cann has appeared with major orchestras including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, The Cleveland Orchestra, The Philadelphia Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the National Symphony Orchestra. In 2024, she was named the inaugural Christel DeHaan Artistic Partner of the American Piano Awards.
Additionally, Cann will lead a Townsend Symposium on Music, Philosophy and the Arts at 11 a.m. March 14. Titled “The Women of Chicago’s Black Renaissance,” the symposium will explore the lives and works of pioneering Black female composers including Nora Holt, Florence Price and Margaret Bonds. Through performance and discussion, Cann will illuminate their enduring influence and advocate for the continued preservation and elevation of their contributions to classical music. A contemplative offering during Women’s History Month, the symposium conversation is free and open to the public.
“The Jubilee Artists Series is proud to welcome Seraph Brass and Michelle Cann, artists who exemplify both musical excellence and leadership,” said Dr. Gary G. Gerber, dean of the Townsend School of Music. “As an all-female brass quintet, Seraph Brass is among the nation’s top brass ensembles, and the show is coming up soon. Their program will feature classical literature with an entertaining approach. Experiencing artists of this caliber, on stage and in the classroom, is transformative for our students.”
Beyond the concert, Gerber said student musicians will gain invaluable insight through master classes offered for brass players.
Both shows will take place at Fickling Hall in McCorkle Music Building at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for both programs are just $7 for advance reservations and are available for each show here. Admission is free to students with a Mercer or other valid student I.D., with tickets held even for sold out performances for students. Call (478) 301-5470 to reserve, or pay at the door.
