About Us
High Plains Music Ensemble was formed in 2013 so that adult instrumentalists in the East I-70 Corridor could play and perform.
Our all-volunteer musicians come from Denver, Aurora, Watkins, Bennett, Strasburg, Byers, and Deer Trail, and range from age 15 to 70. Woodwind, brass, string, and percussion instrumentalists are welcome. Musicians must have at least one year of band or orchestra experience. Auditions are not necessary, but our director will want to hear you play so that you and your music part will be a comfortable match.
We enjoy playing a variety of genres including classical, pop, jazz, and patriotic music.
The ensemble performs three annual concerts (March, June, October) and provides entertainment for local town festivals. The ensemble also alternates years playing at the December concerts for Strasburg, Bennett, and Deer Trail Schools.
Year-round rehearsals are held Mondays at 6:30 p.m. in the band room of Bennett High School (610 7th St, Bennett, CO 80102).
About Our Director
Director Kurt Elliott grew up in Kalamzoo, MI, and attended the University of Colorado, Boulder, from 1980 to 1984. Until his retirement this spring, he's been teaching music in Colorado towns for 32 years including Cheyenne Wells, Deer Trail, and Strasburg where he directed since 1993. When he's not directing the High Plains Music Ensemble, he can be found in the French horn section of the ensemble.
Contact Director Kurt Elliot (strasband@comcast.net or 303-895-7568).