The U.S. Open Brass Band Championships in partnership with sponsor Buffet Crampon, makers of Courtois and Besson brass instruments, are very excited to announce a further development in the Contest and the Awards Banquet.

Bruce Silva, Vice President of Buffet Crampon has announced the Sponsorship of the “Best Featured Brass Soloist”. This year, in lieu of the plaque and $250 award, Buffet Crampon has opted to raise the stakes and award a custom engraved brass instrument to the winner of the Best Brass Soloist at the contest.

“We are all very excited about this new level of award this year and are very appreciative for the kind and generous support we continue to enjoy from our relationship with Buffet Crampon,” Clark Niermeyer

This instrument will be engraved and delivered shortly after the new year in late January and be the same as the instrument on which the solo was played. Play a great tuba solo; win a new tuba, etc.

“We are all very excited about this new level of award this year and are very appreciative for the kind and generous support we continue to enjoy from our relationship with Buffet Crampon,” said Clark Niermeyer.

Buffet Crampon will also continue their sponsorship, which includes the following:
-Championship Trophy and $1,000.00 prize
-Best Cornet Player of the Day, which includes an engraved new cornet to be awarded on the day of the contest.
-“The Voice” of the U.S. Open, Frank Renton

Who will take home these and other awards? See for yourself in St. Charles, IL on November 8th, 2008. www.usopenbrass.org