About

Founded in 2017, Category V Brass (Category 5 Brass) is a brass quintet based in the Columbia, South Carolina area. Members of Category V Brass are active musicians in orchestras across the Southeastern United States, including the Augusta Symphony, South Carolina Philharmonic, Greenville Symphony, Charlotte Symphony, and Charleston Symphony.

The quintet performs music from a wide range of styles and repertoire, from standard classical works and polkas to jazz, Broadway music, and more. Category V Brass has performed at a wide variety of venues across South Carolina, from the South Carolina State House and appearances with the Hilton Head Choral Society to local Oktoberfest and Wintermarkt celebrations at the Bierkeller.

The group’s name has a story that’s as memorable as their sound. During one of their first rehearsals, the musicians gathered on a weekend as Hurricane Irma was forecast to sweep through South Carolina and reach Category 5 strength. Inspired by the storm’s intensity, the ensemble adopted the name Category V Brass.

Since then, Category V Brass Quintet has lived up to its name, delivering performances with the power of a storm and the warmth of a favorite melody. Whether performing classical favorites, popular tunes, or lively arrangements, the group aims to leave audiences energized, smiling, and maybe even a little blown away.

Members

Noa Miller, Trumpet

Eric Gilfus, Horn

Blake Lawson, Trombone

Mathew Tuk, Tuba

Emeritus:

Bill Anonie, Trumpet

Justin Stowe, Tuba

Guest Members:

Reed Gallo, Trumpet

Fabio Mann, Trumpet

Antonio Marti, Trumpet

Jason Ortiz, Trumpet

Alex Wilborn, Trumpet

Nathan DuVall, Trombone

Jeremy McLeroy, Trombone

Michael Wilkinson, Trombone

Justin Clarkson, Tuba

Ron Davis, Tuba