Mission

To pay honor to a departed soul.

To illuminate the transition of life.

To recognize a unique funerary tradition.

To provide inspiration, comfort and joy through music.

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Band of Praise is based on the traditional New Orleans brass band. Instrumentation may vary based on the performance requirements, but always includes:

Trumpet
Clarinet
Trombone
Tuba
Drums

Band of Praise:
A Traditional Jazz Funeral Brass Band

Band of Praise was founded in 2007 by two trombonists. Their purpose was to bring the spirit of the New Orleans jazz funeral tradition to Minnesotans. The basic principles of the band are to remain authentic and traditional, while adapting to the preferences and needs of Minnesotans and the environment. In the interest of professionalism, and the need to be available on short notice and at all times of the day, Band of Praise is a union band, comprised of members of the American Federation of Musicians (Local 30-73).

FOUNDERS:
Don Lehnhoff, Leader

Dixieland is the first music Don learned to play, because there weren't trombones in rock 'n roll. He played professionally all through High School and beyond, served two years with the 440th U.S. Army Band at Ft. Bragg, NC, toured and recorded with national acts, and plays currently with the Just Friends Big Band and various otherTwin Citiies performance groups.

Don works in Advertising & Marketing in the Twin Cities area and is co-founder of BaltimoreJam.

Tom Huelsmann, Music Director

Tom is retired from 34 years as band director of South Washington County Schools, teaching at all levels. For 22 years of that Tom was Director of Bands at Park High School in Cottage Grove, MN where he conducted the Concert, Symphony and Marching Bands, and Jazz Ensemble. Tom was bass trombonist with the Minneapolis and St. Paul Civic Orchestras.

Tom performs currently with the Minneapolis Trombone Choir and the Red Rock Swing Band. Playing dixieland music goes back to his high school and college days.