Oct. 7th, 2009--Presidents Cup Tournament opening ceremony Oct. 7th, 2009

The United States Air Force Band of the Golden West performed for the Professional Golfers Association Presidents Cup Tournament opening ceremony Oct. 7 at Harding Park in San Francisco. More than 4,000 audience participants and 1.2 million television viewers watched the Band of the Golden West play festive ceremonial music before opening remarks were made. The Band of the Golden West was asked to perform at the Presidents Cup, through coordination with Richard Kaufman, PGA music director. Under the direction of Major Keith Bland, commander, Band of the Golden West, the band performed nine musical selections including the Star Spangled Banner for the crowd. “It was an honor to represent the Armed Forces and the Air Force,” said Major Bland. “We’re proud to serve as ambassadors of all the men and women in uniform.” Cheers from the crowd reiterated the love of music for the band members. Staff Sergeant Jill Corbett, tuba player, Band of the Golden West, expressed her appreciation for the warm crowd reception. “It rejuvenates my love for the job,” she said. “We received excellent exposure, and it was great for our unit and the entire Air Force.”Many prominent guests attended the opening ceremony including President George H.W. Bush Sr., Major League Baseball player Barry Bonds and San Francisco opera singer Zheng Cao. Members of the U.S. team included Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. The Band of the Golden West is the only active-duty band west of the Rocky Mountains and contains multiple elements including a concert band, caroling band for the holidays, brass and woodwind quintets and a rock band. An ensemble of the large concert band performed at the tournament, playing upbeat marches and fanfares for the audience. Comprised of 45 to 49 members, the band supports 10 Air Force bases in the western states including Nevada, Oregon, Idaho and Washington. They perform an average of 200 performances a year. “We represent excellence that exists throughout the Air