Technical Sergeant Will Nathman joined the United States Air Force Academy Band, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, in 2022. He currently performs as a saxophonist with the Falconaires, Marching Band, and the Concert Band. He also serves in the band’s Library.
TSgt Nathman is originally from Watauga, Texas, where he began playing the saxophone in 6th grade. He received his undergraduate Jazz Studies degree in 2020 from the University of North Texas, studying under Brad Leali. He performed with the Grammy nominated One O’Clock Lab Band, joining the band his sophomore year. During his time with the One O’Clock, Sergeant Nathman had the opportunity to perform with Christian McBride, Kenny Werner, Ari Hoenig, Chris Potter, Gary Smulyan, Maria Schneider, and Melissa Aldana. In 2020, the One O’Clock competed in the inaugural Jack Rudin Jazz Championship hosted by Jazz at Lincoln Center, where Sergeant Nathman was recognized as “Outstanding Alto Soloist” by Wynton Marsalis.
Sergeant Nathman also had the opportunity to perform with the Disneyland All-American College band in the summer of 2018 and returned as the Student Band Leader in 2019. Through this experience, Sergeant Nathman had the opportunity to perform with Wayne Bergeron, John Clayton, Sal Lozano, and Gregg Field.
In 2022, Sergeant Nathman received his Jazz Studies Master’s degree from California State University Long Beach, studying under Sal Lozano. In his free time, Sergeant Nathman loves reading, hiking, skiing, and collecting vinyl records.
EDUCATION:
2022 Jazz Studies, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
2020 Jazz Studies, University of North Texas, Denton, TX
ASSIGNMENTS:
October 2022 – Present, USAF Academy Band, Peterson AFB, CO
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Medal
Basic Military Training Honor Graduate Award
Small Arms Marksman Expert Award
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION:
Airman First Class – October 2022
Technical Sergeant – October 2022