5 Browns Enliven Classical Music Scene

The 5 Browns – Ryan, Melody, Gregory, Deondra and Desirae – became the first family of five siblings simultaneously accepted to New York’s prestigious Julliard School. Now, these brilliant young pianists are waking up classical music with fresh energy on a nationwide tour, stopping at the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center at Mercyhurst University on April 8 at 8 p.m.

Their performance is presented by the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture.

The New York Post has heralded the siblings’ scorching piano skills as a powerful force in the classical music scene. “One family, five pianos and 50 fingers add up to the biggest classical music sensation in years…When these kids do Rachmaninoff, they’ll make you forget about Marshall amps.”

The quintet enjoyed their first wave of critical attention in February 2002 when People magazine dubbed them the “Fab Five,” and at about the same time they were featured on Oprah and 60 Minutes. The 5 Browns have released three CDs that each shot to the No. 1 spot on Billboard magazine’s Classical Album Chart.

The 5 Browns, who grew up in Alpine, Utah, perform individually and together in various combinations, from duets to intricate five-piano arrangements.

In addition to touring around the world, The 5 Browns are published writers. Their book, Life Between the Keys, was published by Phoenix Books in March 2009. They are also featured in a PBS TV special,

The 5 Browns In Concert, showcasing their sold-out performance at Tuacahn, a stunning outdoor venue nestled in the heart of the red rocks of southern Utah.

Tickets are $45 for Gold Circle, $40 for adults and $37 for seniors and students. Tickets can be purchased by calling 814-824-3000 or by visiting miac.mercyhurst.edu.