Out with the jazz, in with the holiday music

Published Nov. 29, 2011
By Airman 1st Class Tabitha N. Haynes
Air Force District of Washington Public Affairs

Washington, D.C., (National Capital Region) -- The U.S. Air Force Band's Airmen of Note wrapped-up the 2011 Jazz Heritage performance series Nov. 18.

This year's lineup had sets with vocal sensation Carmen Bradford, Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum, and legendary trumpeter Doc Severinsen.

The annual set of musical entertainment was held at the George Washington University Lisner Auditorium, Washington, D.C.

"They [the Note] really make a great image for the services," said Severinsen, the long time music director of the Johnny Carson's 'Tonight Show.' "It awakens a lot of young people to the possibilities."

A benefit of joining the service for young people is it will qualify them to do a lot of things in their future, said Severinsen.

The U.S. Air Force Band mission is to honor those who have served; inspire American citizens to heightened patriotism and service; and positively impact the global community of behalf of the U.S. Air Force and the United States of America.

The Band has performed in nearly 2,000 performances to an audience of more than 225,600,000 from 2007 to 2010. All to represent Airmen stationed around the globe, whose selfless service ensure America's freedom.

The U.S. Air Force Band's next public appearances begin soon, with the Dec. 3 kick-off of their annual Holiday Concert Series. All performances are free for the public.

Tickets are currently available at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C., Joint Base Andrews, Md., and the Pentagon, Va. For more information, visit www.usafband.af.mil.