The first performance of the 2026 spring semester in Bob Jones University’s Concert, Opera and Drama Series featured a prominent chamber music group, the Spanish Brass. The five-man brass ensemble is the recipient of many awards and honors over its 36-year history, including Spain’s highest musical honor from the Ministry of Culture. The Spanish Brass performed a 15-song sample of its extensive repertoire, showcasing not only the original composers but also those who arranged the works for brass ensemble.  

Playing against a backdrop of red and gold light, the Spanish Brass performed pieces by famous composers Johann Sebastian Bach and Arcangelo Corelli, as well as traditional Spanish works such as a Catalan carol and a Spanish lullaby. Carlos Benetó, a founding member and trumpeter, introduced many of the pieces, helping explain the significance of each composition. He engaged the audience with good humor, bantering with his fellow performers and encouraging applause.  

Throughout the performance, members of the Spanish Brass demonstrated their ability through short solo features. Indalecio Bonet’s trombone solo was made especially memorable by Benetó’s humor as he told the audience that Bonet hadn’t played well at their previous two concerts. Tuba player Sergio Finca was also on the receiving end of Benetó’s jokes when he said Finca had been admitted to the Spanish Brass for his strength and size rather than his musical abilities.

The Spanish Brass performance concluded with several brief encores and a spontaneous journey up the center aisle of Founder’s Memorial Amphitorium. The performers spent time interacting with students in the lobby, posing for pictures and answering questions. Several of their CD collections were for sale in the lobby, with their Christmas album receiving special attention.