Genuine Brass is a Chicago-based professional quintet of musicians who genuinely love making music and sharing it with others.  A versatile group, Genuine Brass creates original arrangements and also performs classic quintet repertoire to the highest standard.  Their repertoire ranges from classical to pop to jazz and beyond.

The talented ensemble includes Garth Anderson, trumpet, who received his performer\'s certificate from Northern Illinois University in 2012, and his Master\'s in trumpet performance in 2011. He earned a Bachelor\'s Degree in Music Education from DePauw University in 2009.  Garth also serves as the personnel manager for the Wheaton Municipal Band and personnel manager for the Fox Valley Orchestra.

Bennett Konstans, also trumpet, grew up in Aurora, Illinois before attending the University of Illinois where he earned his degree in Music Education. Bennett currently teaches elementary and junior high band in Aurora, Illinois. He also works with the Northern Illinois University Huskie Marching Band and directs the Huskie Pep Band.

Sarah Younker is a French hornist based in Chicago.  In addition to performing with many regional orchestras and opera companies, Sarah is principal horn of the JAM Orchestra, specializing in theater and film music.  Her intuitive playing sensibilities have led to regular performances with big bands, both as a section player and soloist.

Rachel Monroe is a 2012 graduate of the University of Iowa with a Masters degree in Trombone Performance.  She received her Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 2010. Rachel is currently the Director of Bands at Illiana Christian High School (Dyer, IN) as well as the director of the South Suburban College Symphonic Band.

Keith Polito is a freelance tuba player in Chicago.  He has had the privilege of performing with many groups including The Chicago Sinfonietta, The Dubuque Symphony Orchestra, The Greeley Philharmonic, and The Civic Orchestra of Chicago.  Keith earned a Master’s Degree from The University of Northern Colorado and a Bachelor’s Degree from The Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University.

The public is cordially invited to attend the Genuine Brass event.  As with all Artist Series events at St. John’s, no tickets will be sold for the program; a free-will offering will be received.

St. John’s Lutheran Church is located on the southeast corner of Lincoln and Maple Streets in Lombard.  Information about St. John’s Artist Series is available by calling the church office, 630-629-2515.