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Hometown Pride – Master Sgt. Alan Baylock’s farewell tour

  • Published
  • By Technical Sgt. Kevin Cerovich
WASHINGTON --  Master Sgt. Alan Baylock shares some thoughts on his unprecedented tour of Pennsylvania last month with the Airmen of Note.

Rarely has an arranger been on tour with the band. This tour was different for a number of reasons; primarily in that it took place within a few miles of Baylock's hometown of Ebensburg, Pa. Furthermore, this was the last tour for the Airmen of Note while he was still in service.

Few people can claim to have more influence on a band than their chief arranger. This is certainly the case with Baylock who, for the last 19 years has been composing and arranging for the Airmen of Note. His name is known internationally for his unparalleled work as an arranger and composer, having written for the likes of Michael Brecker, Freddie Hubbard, Maynard Ferguson, Al Jarreau, Wynonna and many others.

"It was a real thrill and definitely an honor to go on tour and be onstage with the Airmen of Note!" says Baylock.

Actually, he has been on stage, sonically speaking, during every concert performed by the Note since joining the group in 1996. His works have been the core of the band's modern sound for nearly two decades.

"I was amazed at the number of people that came out to see me perform with the band. My grade school band director, trumpet and piano teachers, and a host of family and friends all made this an unforgettable experience."

The thrill must be shared by those music educators who helped to shape the fledgling Baylock into the veritable juggernaut of creativity he is today. He has carried on this tradition and is a staunch supporter of music education. In a clinic in Davidsville, Pa., Baylock shared his secrets with some budding high school musicians: "I play many instruments; most of them not well, mind you, but enough to play what I'm trying to write on that particular voice. It really helps to actually experience your written parts."

2016 will bring retirement to Baylock and leave an enormous set of musical shoes to fill for the whole Air Force Band. Reflecting on this tour and indeed, a stellar career, Baylock says, "It's an honor to be in The Air Force Band, both as a musician with the freedom to create, and as an Airman. It's been a real privilege to serve my country in this fashion."