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Academy Band Fall Tour Kicks Off in Chandler, Arizona

  • Published
  • By Master Sergeant Steven M. Przyzycki
  • The United States Air Force Academy Band
Chandler Center for the Performing Arts, Chandler, AZ --  Your United States Air Force Academy Band's "Airpower!" tour began here tonight in this beautiful hall. It was a very fitting venue for the start of what should be a magnificent tour. Technical Sergeant Tim Stombaugh said, "This tour should prove to be an invaluable public relations tool. We expect to tell the Air Force story to thousands of concert patrons throughout Arizona, and exemplify the excellence found at your United States Air Force Academy."

Performing for a packed house, Lieutenant Colonel Larry H. Lang led the Academy Band through a variety of musical selections that paralleled the diversity and ingenuity found in today's ever revolutionary United States Air Force. Drawing on the great tradition of the American Concert Band, Colonel Lang chose to open the show with Claude T. Smith's "Festival Variations." "When this piece was debuted in 1982 under the baton of legendary Air Force Band Conductor Arnald Gabriel, it really opened up a lot of ears to new compositional techniques that have now become standard," said Colonel Lang. "In its day, the piece was very effective in telling our audience that a new, better Air Force was being developed that would meet the challenges that the future would present. It delivers that same message today."

The soloist for the evening was Technical Sergeant Todd Gustafson on piano performing The Open Road from "Concerto for Jazz Piano Trio and Wind Ensemble." The jazz-tinged composition showcased the musical agility of this world-class pianist.
Additionally, vocal soloist Technical Sergeant Nancy Poffenbarger was spotlighted singing the ballad "Flight" which poignantly describes the passion the 4,400 Air Force Academy Cadets possess for flying and the study of aviation.

Behind every successful mission of the U.S. Air Force is first and foremost the tenet of teamwork. Tonight was no exception as First Lieutenant Jason S. Plosch led the band, conducting several selections to include Stephen Bryant's exuberant "Radiant Joy." This work utilizes a toe-tapping motor rhythm throughout, and employs a catchy, jazz-influenced line.

The concert also featured the world premier of world-renowned composer Julie Giroux's "The Speed of Heat." This audience favorite work musically describes the various facets of flight as told by fighter pilots. As the title suggests, it is energetic from start to finish and laced with excitement.

The band's Educational Outreach program under the direction of Technical Sergeant  Nancy Poffenbarger features young high school music students performing with the band. Playing oboe with the band on the "Air Force Musicians Association March" was Alexis Mitchell from Basha High School under the direction of band director Matt Kozak. "This is a once in a lifetime experience for these kids. It is great to see the pride they possess in the Air Force and their country," said Technical Sergeant Jason Crowe.

The second half of the concert opened with a celebration to our heritage and showcased the music of famous Air Force Band leader, Major Glenn Miller. As always, the concert concluded with a rousing, patriotic salute to our nation and those who serve. All veterans and their families were honored as the audience gave their approval with a standing ovation. Tomorrow night will find the band in Mesa, Arizona. This tour is off to a spectacular start!