A repertoire spanning over 400 years offers a variety of sound for members of The London Brass.

According to Paul Ferrone, Director of Performing Arts for the Iowa State Center, the audience at The London Brass concert will get a taste of the group’s versatility.

“You’ll get to hear something very, very old, you’ll get to hear something very, very new and you’ll get to hear something very, very cool,” Ferrone said.

With performances featuring a range from classical to jazz composers, The London Brass has developed a well-rounded reputation in the music industry.

But the ensemble doesn’t focus solely on historical composers — it also has a reputation of commissioning 20th century composers to write new music for the group.

Ferrone said The London Brass is one of the few groups that has made this type of commitment to new music.

This commitment is not the only thing that has gained The London Brass respect and admiration over the years. Skill and talent are essential to anyone trying to succeed in the classical music market and The London Brass has made these things a priority throughout its entire 35-year-old career.

Despite a change in name, a replacement of some members and a constant variation of repertoire, the group hasn’t wavered in the quality of its musicianship.

“The members have changed because the group has been in existence for such a long time,” Ferrone said. “But the standards are still the same. [The London Brass] has always had a reputation of being one of the great brass ensembles.”

Although the 10 members comprising the ensemble spend a lot of time together, many of them lead busy careers as soloists.

Members of the ensemble have served as principal players for groups including the English Chamber Orchestra, the London Philharmonic Orchestra, The London Symphony Orchestra and the London Sinfonietta.

Before The London Brass’s performance, members will be sharing their skills and artistry with Iowa State students. Before the concert, the group will hold a master class for student brass players. Ferrone said the ensemble agreeing to offer its time and talents to conduct a master class was a big bonus.

“The students are really going to benefit from working with these people,” Ferrone said. “The fact that they were able to share their artistry with the students on campus was a big draw.”

Tonight’s concert will include “Airs and Dances” by John Dowland, “Canzon IX a 8” by Giovanni Gabrieli, “For John Cage — Michael Nyman” by Duke Ellington and “London Brass Favorites” (Tangos & Ragtimes, Broadway hits) among others.

The London Brass will perform at Stephens Auditorium at 7:30 tonight. Tickets are available at the Iowa State Center Ticket Office and at all TicketMaster locations.