uis Miguel Araya (Trumpet) born in Alajuela, Costa Rica, has played a wide range of musical styles, ranging from classical to popular and Latin music. He has studied music extensively both in Costa Rica and in the United States, holding a Bachelor of Music degree from the National Institute of Music (Costa Rica), a Master of Music degree from Loyola University in New Orleans and a Doctorate in Music from Arizona State University. Luis has been a member of the Costa Rica National Symphony Orchestra since 1997. He is also on the faculty of the University of Costa Rica. Other orchestral experiences include the Venezuela Symphony Orchestra, the Miami Symphony Orchestra, and the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Other festivals attended by Araya are the Rafael Mendez Brass Institute (Denver, CO), and a Solo recital at the International Trumpet Guild Conference 2005 in Bangkok, Thailand.   http://aboutdallasbrass.com

MICHAEL LEVINE (director, trombone) is originally from St. Louis Park, Minnesota. He first attended the University of Minnesota and then The Juilliard School, where he received his Bachelor of Music Degree. For three years he held the position of Assistant Principal Trombone in the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra. Michael founded the Dallas Brass in 1983, and he serves as the ensemble’s trombonist, Master of Ceremonies and Artistic Director. As an arranger, he has made significant contributions to the Dallas Brass library. Michael has invented a device called the WindMaster, to help wind players develop their breathing technique. More recently, he has created the Harmony Bridge Project which is designed to connect band and other music students with seniors in nursing homes around the country. Michael’s favorite non-musical activity is snow skiing. He has duel residency in Dallas, TX and Minneapolis, MN.   http://aboutdallasbrass.com