The Air Force Strings is the official string ensemble of the United States Air Force. Stationed at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., it is one of six musical ensembles that form The U.S. Air Force Band. The Air Force Strings consists of 17 active-duty musicians performing a wide range of musical styles, from classical symphonic selections and Broadway show tunes to classic rock, bluegrass, and patriotic compositions. The ensemble often entertains audiences at high-level military and government events in a formation known as the Strolling Strings. Providing a multi-dimensional experience, the instrumentalists surround the audience performing from memory without a conductor’s aid.
On other occasions, the Air Force Strings joins forces with other musicians from within The U.S. Air Force Band to perform music for chamber, symphonic, and studio orchestra. Additionally, the ensemble’s members appear regularly at military and civilian ceremonial functions, education outreach events, and concerts in the metropolitan Washington, D.C., area. The Air Force Strings’ wide-ranging flexibility allows the ensemble to provide the highest caliber of musical support for any occasion.
Innovation has always been the hallmark of the U.S. Air Force, and the Air Force String Orchestra is no exception. The Air Force String Orchestra has a reputation of excellence when telling the Air Force story to a new crowd and a new generation. It presents cutting-edge programming by promoting American composers, breaking down political barriers, and encouraging a culture of global dialogue as international musical ambassadors.
As part of The U.S. Air Force Band, the Air Force Strings’ mission is to HONOR those who have served, INSPIRE American citizens to heightened patriotism and service, and CONNECT with the global community on behalf of the U.S. Air Force and the United States. The excellence demonstrated by the Air Force Strings reflects the excellence displayed by all Airmen stationed worldwide, whose selfless service and sacrifices ensure the freedoms enjoyed by citizens of the United States of America.