I remember growing up, the Empire Brass was the “other” brass quintet on the scene, next to the Canadian Brass. My dad’s quintet would frequently perform Canadian Brass arrangements and I went with them to hear the group live in Philadelphia.  The Empire Brass seemed to be doing “edgier” stuff and I only heard a handful of recordings.  But I remember being impressed by their virtuosity and the power in their sound.  Now, of course, they are a bedrock group in the brass world.  Recently, I got chance to hear some of their album they recorded with organist, Michael Murray.  Great stuff.

Rolf will be sorely missed I’m sure.  Here is a link to the New York Times article on his death.

New York Times – Rolf Smedvig