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Jazz Heritage Series Off to a Swinging Start

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Tyler Kuebler
  • The USAF Band
Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, D.C. --  The first concert of the 2011 Jazz Heritage Series was a smashing success, as the USAF Airmen of Note and vocal sensation Carmen Bradford thrilled an enthusiastic crowd on October 15 at Lisner Auditorium on the campus of The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. 

Bradford, who spent nine years as the featured vocalist with the famed Count Basie Orchestra, was immediately at home with the "Note" as the band hit the ground swinging with some classic Basie charts.  Master Sgt. Alan Baylock, chief arranger for the Airmen of Note, also contributed several arrangements for the famed singer.  Mr. Dick Golden, international jazz radio personality, emceed the evening's activities as Carmen Bradford delighted young and old alike with her soulful, swininging vocal interpretations of jazz classics.  The concert ended with a stirring patriotic tribute to America as the Note's vocalist Tech. Sgt. Paige Martin joined Carmen Bradford onstage as they sang "America The Beautiful" together.

The Jazz Heritage Series is not only an incredible opportunity to showcase The USAF Band, but the entire Air Force as well.  After the performance, Chief Master Sgt. Dudley Hinote, the Note's Non-Commisioned Officer in Charge, remarked "It was a treat to welcome Ms. Bradford to perform with the band.  Her vocal stylings and artistry combined with the world class Airmen musicians on stage made for an inspiring evening for all in attendance.  These performances and subsequent broadcasts reach millions across the country, giving the band the opportunity to represent the dedication to excellence displayed daily by our fellow Airmen serving across the globe".  Senior Master Sgt. Joe Jackson, the Airmen of Note's musical director, summed up the evening's sentiments for all those involved, "Playing with the incredible Carmen Bradford was a dream come true!  I feel truly blessed to represent America's Airmen while working with legendary guest artists like Ms. Bradford and the amazing professionals in the Airmen of Note."

In case you missed this special event, check our website for information about the broadcast in Spring 2012.

Please click here to download the 2011 Jazz Heritage Series flyer for information on the upcoming Jazz Heritage Series concerts in November featuring Grammy-winning Saxophonist Kirk Whalum and trumpet legend Doc Severinsen- -we'll see you there!