 |
Leslie Thompson: Honed through formal classical training at Howard University-College of Fine Arts, Leslie’s gift has taken center stage in historic U.S. platforms such as Cleveland’s Severance Hall, Harlem’s famed Apollo Theater, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. She has also performed in historic venues in Toyko, Japan, St. Thomas Virgin, Islands and Barcelona, Spain. Leslie has performed in both Presidential Inaugurations for former President William Clinton. During those events, she's shared the stage with such greats as Luther Vandross, Diana Ross, Bebe & Cece Winans, Kathleen Battle and many others. She has also performed at the United States Naval Observatory (Vice President's home) for former Vice President Al Gore and his wife Tipper Gore at several intimate celebrations and holiday affairs during his term. She has also lended her vocals as a background singer for Al Jarreau. Full Bio: http://www.keysignatureonline.com/Bands/leslie_thompson.html
|
 |
Don Conrad:
Don joins CUB after many years of performing in and around the Gaston County area. He most recently was lead singer for Blind Manifest. |
 |
Mark Reese:
Meet Funkmaster Mark. CUB gets some incredible grooves going and it's coming from this guy! Mark is a accomplished multitalented musician who could play bass for us on a Tuba if needed. For income Mark has been a school band director for close to 30 years |
 |
Bryant "Doc" Bolin:
We call Bryant "Doc". Well, I guess that's because that's what he is. He's the "King of the Keyboards" too! Along with his playing he arranges most of what we do while maintaining the health and well being of half the county.
|
 |
Steve Howell:
Percussion
Steve is the driving force behind Coming Up Brass. He comes to us with decades of experience playing with many different bands, and every conceivable musical genre. Steve provides a driving energetic beat that's guaranteed to get you on your feet. |
 |
Joey Dunlevy:
Joey has played, toured and recorded with many great bands over the past 25 years. Not only can he play every woodwind instrument in the civilized world, he's proficient on the keys, brass, and now he even sings! Joey arranges most of our horn parts, and has written some great original songs for CUB. |
 |
Guy Evans:
Guy is a true Tar Heel, but was transplanted to California where Beach music means "The Beach Boys". Since returning, he has quickly learned what true Beach Music is! His West Coast upbringing brings lots of hard hitting, horn filled, Funk/Rock experience. |
 |
Jim Monroe:
Jim is our screaming trumpet man who has played with bands in the Charlotte/Gastonia area since the late 60's . He has played in the same show with such notable groups as Chicago, The Drifters, The Four Tops, The O'jays, The Grass Roots, Spiral Staircase, Sam & Dave, and many more . He is also the guy to call to book "CUB" for your event! |
 |
Steve Barnes: Steve was born in Gaston County to parents who both retired from long careers as educators in the Gaston County School system. On a whim, Steve signed up to play trumpet in the 7th grade beginning band program at Carr Elementary in Dallas, NC. While at North Gaston High School, Steve switched to baritone for two years where he was selected as a member of the All- District Band both years. After returning to the trumpet, Steve attended Appalachian State University where he studied trumpet under the tutelage of Mr. Joe Phelps. After receiving his Bachelor's degree in Music Education in 1978, Steve returned to Gaston County where he met and married Dianne Caldwell. After college, Steve rarely played until he joined the Gaston County Community Band in 1999. A couple of years later he joined a local big band called The Stardusters, where he is still a member as lead trumpet. Steve joined CUB in 2007, and loves the variety of music the group plays. Working as a Systems Analyst for The Timken Company provides real income for Steve and his family (Dianne and two sons - Daniel and Adam) which they spend while living in Stanley. |