Chief Master Sergeant Jürgen Schwarze Chief Master Sergeant Jürgen Schwarze joined the 562nd Air Force Band in 1985. Born in Ludwigsburg, West Germany, Sergeant Schwarze is a naturalized immigrant and was raised in the Chicago suburb of Mundelein, Illinois. He began his study of music at an early age and quickly mastered the clarinet, saxophone, and flute. After graduation from high school, he served four years as a Marine Corps Bandsman (1974-79). During this time, he was promoted meritoriously to the rank of Sergeant within two years as a member of the 3rd Marine Air Wing Band at MCAS, El Toro, California. After his service in the Marine Corps, Chief Schwarze resumed his music education at the University of Southern California. He majored in clarinet and saxophone performance and was featured several times as a soloist with the USC Symphony. He continued his music studies at the Grove School of Music in Los Angeles, where he completed the Composition and Arranging Program. Upon graduation, he stayed at the Grove School as the school's music contractor until 1993. Sergeant Schwarze has performed in the Los Angeles area as a professional musician since 1975. His versatility and creative skills have provided various opportunities as record session producer, manager, contractor, arranger, and performer. Chief Schwarze led the Jazz Ensemble "Patriots In Blue" from 1987 to 2004. During this period he was instrumental in developing the renowned "Patriots" as a first class ensemble. Chief Schwarze was appointed Drum Major of the 562nd Air Force Band in 1992 by audition. In 2003 he was appointed the Drum Major of the 2003 Tournament of Roses "Total Force" Air Force Marching Band, leading 120 Air Force musicians down Colorado Boulevard. in Pasadena, California. In 1991, he was chosen by audition to perform as a member of the Air National Guard Select Band in Atlanta, Georgia, where he was featured as a soloist and principal Alto Saxophonist. His awards include the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two oak leaf clusters. Chief Master Sergeant Schwarze and Jeanne, his wife of 22 years, have 4 wonderful children.