This recording pays tribute to Samayoa's early musical influences and the cultural heritage that shaped her artistic voice. The selections highlight works by Hispanic and Brazilian composers, as well as pieces distinguished by a strong Spanish flavor. Hora Staccato and Czardas, while not of Spanish origin, are included in recognition of their prominence in Mendez's signature repertoire. (2026)

Cincinnati Virtuosity-The Cornet Music of Frank Simon and Herman Bellstedt

There have been many recordings made of cornet virtuosic music from well-known soloists and composers, but remarkably, there are no recordings devoted exclusively to the music of these men at the time of this recording. I have enjoyed learning these charming (but challenging!) cornet solos. The CD includes nine cornet solos with piano accompaniment. I felt compelled to include some of the more popular pieces such as Napoli, Willow Echoes, and La Mandolinata. Not as popular, but not completely obscure, are the pieces Carnival of Venice, Fantasia No. 1, Miss Blue Bonnet, and Princess Alice. The most obscure pieces are Piece de Concerte and American Boy. (2013)

Lantana Trio’s debut album, “Crossing Barries” has been well-received with a Silver Medal – Outstanding Achievement recognition in the Trio category of the Global Music Awards. The album is under the MSR Classics Label and consists of music for brass trio by underrepresented composers. Lantana commissioned 4 new pieces by composers: Jeff Scott, Shanyse Strickland, Dorothy Gates, and Ivette Herryman Rodriguez. They were also part of a commissioning consortium for the piece by Erik Morales. The Lauren Bernofsky piece, “Trio for Brass” is becoming a staple in the brass trio genre. (2022)

Brass Arts Quintet: The Music of Chicago, Mark Records, 2018.

Chicago’s innovative blend of classical, jazz, and rock made their music stand out as something truly special. Continuing this eclectic mix of styles in adapting the music for brass quintet was inspiration for these arrangements. The Brass Arts Quintet has entertained audiences throughout the United States for over five decades, appearing at major music conferences and touring for the Tennessee Arts Commission, bringing the joy of music to thousands of listeners of all ages through both community and school performances. The quintet has appeared on public television stations across the country in programs including two Christmas specials and Patriotic Brass, celebrating the music of America. The quintet is in residence at Tennessee Technological University, where members are on the faculty in the school of music. (2018)