Airmen of Note

United States Air Force Jazz Band in Concert

Since its formation in 1941, the United States Air Force Band has been the Air Force's premier musical organization, earning a reputation as “America's International Musical Ambassadors.” On Saturday, March 21, 2009, at 8:30 p.m., experience the big band jazz sounds of the United States Air Force Band’s premier jazz ensemble, Airmen of Note, as they make a stop at the Howard Performing Arts Center on the campus of Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich. This concert is free of charge, but tickets are required.

The Airmen of Note was originally formed to carry on the tradition of Glenn Miller’s Army Air Corps dance band that began in 1950. The Glenn Miller sound has remained a strong part of the band’s musical history. The Airmen of Note strive to keep a modern, cutting-edge sound with a commitment to tradition in the band. Today, the Airmen of Note is one of the few touring big bands and carries an international reputation of being one of the most versatile big bands of its kind worldwide. Committed to the United States Air Force Band’s creed that a musical organization can be a nation’s most effective ambassador, the Airmen of Note have performed all over South America, Europe and Japan.

Senior Master Sergeant Joe Jackson is the director, lead jazz trombonist and music education coordinator for the band. Chief Master Sergeant Dudley J. Hinote is the manager of the Airmen of Note. He plays bass trombone in the group and has a Bachelor of Music Education. Many of the members have backgrounds in music education and remain committed to inspiring the next generation of musicians. They frequently visit high schools and colleges across the country showing their enthusiasm for music education.

The Note has collaborated with jazz artists such as Joe Williams, Sarah Vaughan and Doc Severinsen. Their reputation for musical excellence and high standards has earned the respect of the world’s foremost jazz artists. Learn more by visiting www.usafband.af.mil.