I just recently found out that Canadian Brass, one of the most recognized ensembles in the brass world, has a new horn player.  His name is Eric Reed, and according to the Canadian Brass website he joined the group in October of 2010.  For a bit more information on his background, here’s his bio as found on the CB website.

Eric Reed, French horn, is a native of Indiana and began playing at age nine, encouraged by his musician parents. His studies took him to Rice University and then The Juilliard School. He has already had a successful career as a member of the Harrisburg Symphony, Oregon Symphony and New World Symphony as well as his nomination as a fellow at The Academy- a music program sponsored by Carnegie Hall and the Juilliard School for the finest young professional musicians today. It is designed to develop the artistic values and skills necessary for careers that combine musical excellence with education, community engagement, advocacy, and leadership. Eric has also performed with the New York Philharmonic, New York City Opera, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Orchestra of St. Luke’s, Florida Orchestra and Kansas City Symphony. He has also graced the orchestras of Radio City Music Hall, many Broadway show orchestras as well as performed with Ray Charles, Wynton Marsalis and BoyzIIMen. An avid tennis and golf enthusiast, Eric is currently engaged and lives in New York City.

If his bio is any indication, Eric will be the latest in a string of superb and versatile players who have performed as members of Canadian Brass – that list includes Jeff Nelsen, who now teaches at Indiana University and Bernhard Scully (a former classmate at UW-Madison), who teaches at the University of Illinois, as well as Martin Hackleman, Chris Cooper, David Ohanian, and Graeme Page.  In addition to Eric, other members who have recently joined the ensemble include Keith Dyrda on trombone and Chris Coletti on trumpet.  Having spoken with Bernhard a few times about his work with the Canadian brass, I know that their performing schedule is pretty intense, but also very rewarding.  They put on tremendous programs, combining virtuosic playing with accessible repertoire for a variety of audiences.  Although I haven’t had a chance to hear Eric perform with the group yet, I congratulate him on his new position and wish him good luck and great chops!