USAF Ceremonial Brass Performs Sunday at TAMIU

Music lovers do not want to miss the United States Air Force (USAF) Band Ceremonial Brass of Washington D.C. performing this Sunday, February 18, 2007, at 4 p.m.in Texas A&M International University’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ (CFPA) Recital Hall.

The concert is free and open to the public.

“Laredo is in for a terrific treat as the USAF Ceremonial Brass Quintet performs a unique concert of brass music from the Baroque Period to modern times,” said Dr. Frank Grzych, TAMIU College of Arts and Sciences’ chair of the department of fine and performing arts.

The USAF Ceremonial Brass has provided the finest musical support for state arrivals at the White House, full honor arrivals for foreign dignitaries at the Pentagon, and performed at retirement ceremonies, changes of command ceremonies, awards ceremonies, patriotic programs and funerals at Arlington National Cemetery.  In addition to the ensemble’s ceremonial responsibilities, the band performs concerts several times a year. Its selection ranges from traditional music to original works.

The Ceremonial Brass originated in 1964, when the USAF Headquarters Command Band was incorporated into the USAF Band as a separate ceremonial unit. In 1985, the group became an all-brass and percussion ensemble, renamed the “Ceremonial Brass.”

The elite group is composed of world-class brass players, percussionists and a drum major. It is responsible for more than 300 ensemble and 300 solo performances per year.  

The Brass has made various radio and television appearances, including representing the United States Air Force at the 50th anniversary of V.E. Day celebration in Moscow, as well as in military tattoo ceremonies in Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway.

Dr. Grzych, former associate conductor of The USAF Band in Washington, said many have seen the Band recently.

”These musicians were most recently seen on national television adding their musical support to the State Funeral ceremonies of former US President, Gerald R. Ford."

Brass music has been an important part of public gatherings and ceremonies for hundreds of years. Brass and percussion instruments have held the attention of military leaders, due to the strength and carrying power of the instruments. They are often chosen to perform signals, alarms, and ceremonial concert music.

For more information, please contact Dr. Grzych at 326.2654, e-mail fgrzych@tamiu.edu or visit offices in CFPA, room 217C.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu