March 25, 2025
The Phoenix Symphony’s commitment to music education and community engagement was clearly evident on March 18th and 19th, as our talented musician ensembles visited nine school campuses across the Valley. Among the many highlights of these outreach days, the brass ensemble’s visit to Casa Blanca Community School in Bapchule stands out as a particularly special experience.
The students and staff at Casa Blanca Community School welcomed the brass musicians with great excitement. During the visit, students actively participated by directing the ensemble’s dynamics, exploring the subtleties of nonverbal communication in musical performance, and examining the design of brass instruments in their uncoiled form.
This performance carried extra significance as it coincided with the Gila River Indian Community’s celebration of the legacy of Russell “Big Chief” Moore, a Pima tribe member whose musical journey continues to inspire.
Born in 1912 in Gila Crossing, Arizona, within the Gila River Indian Community, Russell Moore was a renowned American jazz trombonist. A proud member of the Pima tribe, he made his mark in the music world, performing alongside legends such as Frank Sinatra, Lionel Hampton, Alberta Hunter, and Pee Wee Russell. He gained widespread recognition as a member of Louis Armstrong’s band.
Adding to the experience, the brass musicians had the privilege of learning some common phrases in the Akimel O’odham language, thanks to the student council. Simple phrases like “Hi, my name is…” and “Thank you for letting us visit” fostered a meaningful exchange, deepening the connection between the students and musicians.
These outreach days serve as a powerful reminder that music is a universal language—one that bridges cultures and brings people together. The Phoenix Symphony is immensely grateful to the Gila River Indian Community for this enriching opportunity, and we cherish the memories created at each school we have the opportunity to visit including Casa Blanca Community School.
Through these interactions, we continue to learn, grow, and celebrate the diverse tapestry of talent within Arizona.
