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| Ensembles > Band Ensemble Bio |
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| | THE CEREMONIAL BRASS |
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Brass music has played an important role in public gatherings and ceremonies for hundreds of years. Military leaders have always been keenly aware of the strength and carrying power of brass and percussion instruments. They have often chosen them to perform signals, alarms, and other outdoor ceremonial and concert music. Today, amidst the great monuments that celebrate our nation's history, The United States Air Force Ceremonial Brass continues this ancient tradition by providing the finest musical support for state arrivals at the White House and arrivals at Andrews Air Force Base, full honor arrivals for foreign dignitaries at the Pentagon, retirements, changes of command, awards ceremonies, patriotic programs and funerals at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to its ceremonial duties, the Ceremonial Brass performs in concert several times each year. Because of the variety of its commitments, the ensemble's repertoire ranges from traditional music to original commissioned works.
The origins of the Ceremonial Brass trace back to 1964, when The United States Air Force Headquarters Command Band was incorporated into The United States Air Force Band as a separate ceremonial unit. Since its creation, it has evolved into the Ceremonial Brass, consisting of world-class brass players, percussionists and drum major. The group is responsible for more than 1,000 missions annually. Most recently, the Ceremonial Brass has represented the United States Air Force at the 50th anniversary of V.E. Day celebration in Moscow, as well as in military tattoo ceremonies in The Netherlands, Sweden and Norway. The Ceremonial Brass has made numerous appearances on radio and national television, including twelve Fourth of July performances on NBC’s Today Show. |
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