Band of Flight’s Spirit of Freedom group to perform concert
The U.S. Air Force Band of Flight’s Spirit of Freedom ensemble will perform a free concert at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Feb. 22.
The Hearts, Heroes and Heritage concert this year celebrates Valentine’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Presidents Day.
The performance will explore each different day, paying tribute to America’s musical heritage. It will also remember and honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defending America’s freedom.
“We have an incredibly talented group of people here at the Band of Flight and they have prepared a fantastic show,” said Staff Sgt. Chris Hanson, U.S. Air Force Band of Flight, NCO in charge. “We hope to see you all there for the show.”
The music consists of everything from jazz to classical.
“We have something for everyone,” said Hanson.
Those attending will also hear American composer John Philip Sousa’s “Dixie.”
Stationed at Wright-Patterson AFB, Spirit of Freedom is comprised of six members, a brass quintet and a drummer. The group has been playing together for the last two years and will be welcoming its newest member right out of basic training beginning in March.
“I am really looking forward to sharing the stage with all of my amazing colleagues and showing the audience what can be done with a brass group!” said Airman 1st Class Will Dellinger, Spirit of Freedom tuba player.
Spirit of Freedom will also be joined by members of the Band of Flight’s rock band, Flight 1, and a special appearance by Chief Master Sgt. JR Erb, playing bass. Erb is the band manager for the Band of Flight.
The musicians that will be performing in Saturday’s concert are:
Staff Sgt. Chris Hanson (NCOIC), percussion
Senior Airman Bryan Gannon, trombone
Senior Airman Jon Anderson, french horn
Senior Airman Chloe Holmes, trumpet
Airman 1st Class Will Dellinger, tuba
Airman 1st Class Levi Larson, piano (from Flight 1)
Airman 1st Class MeLan Smartt, vocalist (from Flight 1)
Joining the ensemble from Offut Air Force Base, Nebraska, is Airman 1st Class Stephen Spink on the trumpet.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the performance begins at 7:30 p.m. The concert is free and is open to the public.
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. This event does not require tickets.
For more information, please contact the 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs office at 937-522-3252. The museum is located at 1100 Spaatz St, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433.