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Singing Sergeants Shine at Super Bowl 50

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Jake McCray
JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, WASHINGTON, D.C. --  On Sunday, Feb. 7, members of The U.S. Air Force Band's Singing Sergeants took part in a joint service chorus, singing an a cappella arrangement of "America the Beautiful."

Led by Capt. Curtis N. Kinzey of The United States Army ("Pershing's Own") Band, the choir performed flawlessly to 71,000 live spectators at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, and nearly 112 million viewers worldwide.

"Being part of the Super Bowl was such a great experience," said alto vocalist Master Sgt. Emily Wellington. "As much of the country watched, we got to stand alongside our sister services, represent all those who serve and pay tribute to our country the way we know best."

Wellington was especially impressed by the response from the fans. "The support from the crowd moved some of us to tears as we entered and exited the field. It was awesome."

This was the second time that a joint service choir has performed at a Super Bowl. In 2014, the ensemble backed up opera star Renée Fleming as she performed the national anthem.

"It's always an honor to represent the Air Force at major sporting events," said baritone vocalist Master Sgt. Matthew Irish. "As we entered and exited the stadium, I felt as if the resounding support we received was not simply for us, but for all of the veterans we represent, past and present."

Air Force Band musicians have begun to perform more frequently at sporting events than in years past. Based upon a concerted effort to engage major sports teams and venues, led by Technical Sgt. Adam Green, the Band has increased its exposure exponentially to both live and televised audiences worldwide. This more proactive approach has paid dividends, especially when we reach out to venues during national tours.

"The trickiest part is getting a phone number to an executive staff member at a major league sports team," said Green. "They don't exactly publish phone numbers to specific staff members on the N.Y. Giants' website, for example. With some creative smooth talking and crafty research, I am usually able to get the director of marketing or events on the phone. Once I get them on the phone, it's all downhill from there. We then exchange contact info and work through the process of booking a national anthem."

Members of The U.S. Air Force Band have now performed at myriad "major league" sport functions, ranging from NFL, soccer, hockey and basketball, and even to multiple appearances at auto racing events, such as the NASCAR Ford Ecoboost 400 at the Homestead-Miami Speedway in Miami.

"One of the best parts about booking these anthems is hearing back from the points of contact after the games," said Green.

"Your rendition of the national anthem was one of the best I have heard in years. You are welcome back anytime," raved Kristina Cella, Manager of Entertainment and Event Presentation for the New York Knicks and New York Liberty.

Keep your eyes peeled at the next sporting event you attend or view on television. The active duty Air Force performer you see may just be from The U.S. Air Force Band here in Washington, D.C.

In case you missed it, please visit
to see your United States Air Force and sister services honor our country with "America the Beautiful."