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The 2013 Guest Artist Series kicks off!

  • Published
  • By By Chief Master Sgt. Jenn Pagnard
Washington D.C. --  The United States Air Force Band kicked off the 2013 Guest Artist Series on Sunday with fantastic performances by Latin singer, Melina León, and jazz and classical instrumentalist, Paquito D'Rivera.
The concert opened with two captivating numbers by the Airmen of Note: "Machito" and "Another Day." The latter was arranged by the Note trumpeter, Master Sgt. Rich Sigler. This concert was the final public performance for Sigler as a member of the Airmen of Note, as he'll be retiring soon after 24 years of service in the Air Force. The Note was then joined by the Air Force Strings to play an "Earth, Wind and Fire" medley which featured Max Impact vocalist, Master Sgt. Ryan Carson.

D'Rivera took the stage performing several amazing selections with the Airmen of Note and Air Force Strings, including "I Remember Diz" and "To Brenda with Love." León was then featured on a number of tunes backed-up by the Airmen of Note, Air Force Strings and vocalists, Tech. Sgts. Emily Wellington and Julia Brundage. Sergeant Carson also performed a sizzling duet with León entitled "Too Close."

Finally, D'Rivera joined León to perform a stunning version of "Besame mucho" and the energetic "Rhythm Is Gonna Get You." The concert concluded with a rousing version of "God Bless America."

The next Guest Artist Series concert is scheduled for Feb. 24 when the Band will welcome the Rogues for an exciting show of Irish and Celtic music. This concert will also feature the Concert Band, Singing Sergeants, as well as one of the Band's small ensembles, Celtic Aire.

For nearly two decades, the Rogues have electrified audiences on three continents. With a unique, multi-instrumental sound that crosses the musical landscape to include traditional and original rock/pop songs, film soundtrack music, and Irish-based foot-stompers, they combine the worlds of Celtic, rock, folk, pop and classical music. They have added to their ever-growing family of fans presenting high-energy music at festivals, theaters, Highland Games, renaissance festivals and on satellite radio. Renowned for their musical skill, quick wit, and engaging stage show the Rogues have mastered the art of creating an immediate connection with their audiences.

Strong supporters of our nation's military, the Rogues have raised thousands of dollars for individual veterans, the U.S. Air Force Aid Society and Operation Ward 57, the amputee ward at Walter Reed National Medical Center. They have performed for service members in Guantanamo Bay, Japan and Guam, and they regularly volunteer to perform for WWII Vets at Honor Flight arrivals in Washington, D.C. This concert marks the Rogues second appearance with The United States Air Force Band.

The series closes on Mar. 10 with country music legend, Lee Greenwood performing with the U.S. Air Force Orchestra. Guest Artist Series concerts take place at D.A.R. Constitution Hall, 18th and D Streets, N.W., Washington, D.C. Performances begin at 3 p.m. and are free and open to the public; no tickets are needed. Doors open at 2 p.m. For details about these and other U.S. Air Force Band performances, please call our 24-hour concert line at 202-767-5658 or visit our website.