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Airmen of Note perform at the 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Bahja J. Jones
  • 11th Wing Public Affairs
DETROIT --  The U.S. Air Force Band's premier jazz ensemble, the Airmen of Note, performed at the 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival for the first time in approximately 18 years on Sept. 4.

"We're very excited to be invited back to the Detroit Jazz Festival and have the opportunity to play this great American music for such an appreciative audience," said Chief Master Sgt. Dudley Hinote, Airmen of Note NCO in charge and bass trombonist. "As we perform through the nation, we have the opportunity to reflect the excellence displayed by all Airmen as they serve worldwide."

The Airmen of Note performed a number of original selections with retired Master Sgt. Tracey Wright, vocalist, before they were joined by featured vibraphonist Joe Locke.

Locke first saw the Airmen of Note perform at the age of 14 during a performance in his hometown of Rochester, N.Y.

"I've been a fan of the Airmen of Note since I was a teenager," Locke said. "I am thrilled to work with such a talented group of musicians whose reputation for playing great music proceeds them."

During practice on Sept. 3, Locke was impressed by the energy the Airmen of Note brought forth in his arrangements.

"The enthusiasm the Airmen of Note bring to this music creates an energy stronger than the sum of its parts," said Locke. "When I was invited to provide arrangements and play with the Airmen of Note, I knew the 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival would get a top notch performance."

The Detroit audience enjoyed the collaboration between the Airmen of Note and Locke. Spectators bobbed their heads, tapped their feet and a few even danced to the music.

"The pairing of the Airmen of Note with Locke not only represents a 'win' for the Air Force and the audience," said Senior Master Sgt. Joe Jackson, Airmen of Note lead trombonist and musical director, "but it also fulfills a dream for many bandsmen to have the opportunity to perform with a musical hero."

The Airmen of Note are slated to finish their tour with a final performance at the Oktoberfest festival in Cleveland on Sept. 5.