Summer Tunes

HANSCOM AFB, Mass. – Members of the Air Force Band of Liberty’s Big Band ensemble perform alongside Byron Stripling (right), internationally acclaimed trumpeter, as part of Boston’s ParkARTS Waterfront Concert Series at Christopher Columbus Park June 21. (U.S. Air Force photo by Linda LaBonte Britt.)

Liberty Big Band performs on Boston waterfront with guest artist Byron Stripling

Published June 26, 2008
By SSgt Jason Millott
ESC/BA

Boston, MA -- On a bright, summer day, the USAF Band of Liberty's jazz ensemble, the Liberty Big Band, entertained the masses with a set of traditional jazz favorites in the idyllic setting of Boston's Christopher Columbus Park. The day was made all the more special with the musical contributions of special guest artist Byron Stripling.

The band highlighted gems from the jazz idiom to include: Take the A Train, Blues in Hoss Flat, and Sing, Sing, Sing. After the band concluded its opening set, Mr. Stripling took the stage and entertained the crowd with his New Orleans style repertoire. Fans were treated to such tunes as St. James Infirmary, You Rascal, You, and When the Saints Go Marching In. Mr. Stripling said it was a delight to play with a group of such capable musicians.

Mr. Stripling earned his stripes as lead trumpeter and soloist with the Count Basie Orchestra under the direction of Thad Jones and Frank Foster. He has also played and recorded extensively with the bands of Dizzy Gillespie, Woody Herman, Dave Brubeck, Lionel Hampton, Clark Terry, Louis Bellson, and Buck Clayton in addition to The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, The Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, and The GRP All Star Big Band. (from Byronstripling.com)