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Wilmington Virtuosi Brass
Wilmington, NC
About
Wilmington Virtuosi Brass is a British-style brass band formed by principal cornetist Richard Hillson in 2023. Richard, originally from the United Kingdom, moved to Wilmington, North Carolina in 2022 and has been playing with the Wilmington Symphony and the Wilmington Symphonic Winds. Richard saw great brass talent in the area and held an open rehearsal with the goal of replicating the competition-style brass bands he grew up with in the U.K. The response was overwhelming, and as a result the WVB was launched. WVB competed at NABBA last year, only 18 months after its first ever rehearsal. Wilmington Virtuosi Brass is very proud of this achievement and has continued its momentum, performing four concerts in 2025. The band is excited to be back at NABBA in 2026.
Musical Director
Tony Granados
Tony Granados is a visionary artistic leader, performer, conductor, and adjudicator based in central North Carolina. He has served on the board of the North American Brass Band Association since 2017 and is currently in his third term as President. Tony began his brass band journey with the Lexington Brass Band before joining the Triangle Brass Band as Youth Band Conductor and later Music Director. During this time, he built the most successful youth brass band program in North America, winning eight youth section titles and leading the Triangle Brass Band through a period of success unmatched since its founding. Tony is a dedicated educator with nearly 30 years of experience. His private studio has helped countless young musicians earn positions in All-District and All-State bands. He has also collaborated with numerous high school marching bands, including Grand National Semi-Finalists. Additionally, Tony served as Brass Supervisor and lead instructor for the Carolina Gold Drum and Bugle Corps, contributing to three DCA-A Class Championships in 2012, 2018, and 2019. Currently, Tony works as a Producing Coordinator for Carolina Performing Arts. When he’s not coordinating shows, you’ll find him performing with ensembles such as the Orchestras for the Carolina Ballet, NC Opera, NC Master Chorale, Durham Chorale Society, and the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle. For more than 25 years, Tony has been a leading freelance musician in the Triangle, having performed with the North Carolina Symphony. Tony also serves as the Professional Conductor for the Wilmington Virtuosi Brass. He is passionate about helping musicians discover the art of brass banding and enjoys witnessing the excitement and energy new brass bands bring to the community. Tony is deeply grateful to all the members of WVB, especially founder Richard Hillson, for inviting him to be part of their journey.