The Brooklyn Four Plus One, Inc. (B4+1,Inc.) is a 501(c)3 (nonprofit) organization whose mission is to bring the highest quality of America’s classical music to all ages, races, ethnic groups and socioeconomic levels. The B4+1,Inc. is dedicated to fostering, promoting and advancing greater knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the arts; to communicate to all manner of audiences the evolution of American music; to encourage the development, presentation of, and participation in, cultural and artistic activities; to encourage the development and preservation of works of music; and to promote a greater working relationship between the arts and education communities.

Originally, The Brooklyn Four Plus One, Inc. was a band organized by drummer and educator, Wade Barnes, in the mid 1990’s. The band was comprised of native Brooklynites deeply rooted in America’s musical culture. The ensemble conducted performances, clinics and symposia for a variety of audiences. The first recording (titled the same name as the band) was extremely well received. At that time it was decided to expand the ensemble in order to create a more complete musical history. The expanded ensemble was named The Brooklyn Repertory Ensemble (B.R.E.) and is now comprised of 17 members.

Many schools and arts organizations, especially in under-served communities, could not afford the funds necessary for such an ensemble. Therefore, a 501(c)3 status was sought and received in April, 2001. As a result, The Brooklyn Four Plus One, Inc. has been able to bring America’s classical music to ever increasing and appreciative audiences.