Mrs. O’Leary’s Brass Band performs late 19th and early 20th century, popular, American music. Members of the band regularly perform with Chicago orchestras, opera companies and musical theater, as well as numerous recording sessions and commercials.

During the turn of the century, Brass Bands performed many roles in American culture. Utilized by the armed forces, politicians, circuses or any organizations wishing to attract attention, they created a powerful presence without the assistance of amplification.

Corporations formed their own Brass Bands to provide a cultural and social outlet for workers.

Brass Bands were able to perform music of the day, including marches and ragtime. Bandleaders John Philip Sousa, Karl King and Henry Fillmore traveled the country and world as ambassadors of this new American music.

Like the bands of the turn of the century, Mrs. O’Leary’s Brass Band creates a powerful presence through the performance of this popular, patriotic American music.