Royal Air Force and U.S. Air Force musicians have performed on stage together in the United States, an experience described as a career highlight by airmen from both services.
Jazz enthusiasts flocked to the Strathmore Concert Hall in Maryland on 18 April for a unique performance by the Royal Air Force Squadronaires and the Airmen of Note, the premier jazz ensemble of the United States Air Force.
“We’re thoroughly enjoying this. The legacy of the Airmen of Note is one which is revered worldwide so we’re thrilled to be here sharing a stage with them. This is up there as a career highlight, if not THE career highlight.”
Corporal Andy Mears
Squadronaires Musical Director/ saxophonist
The two groups performed a medley of jazz and big band numbers as part of celebrations to mark the centenary year of the RAF.
The origins of the Squadronaires can be traced back to 1939 when many of London’s professional musicians were recruited into the Central Band of the Royal Air Force. The Airmen of Note was created in 1950 to continue the tradition of Major Glenn Miller’s Army Air Corps dance band.
“For all of us, musicians who are into jazz to play with the Airmen of Note is a real privilege and a great honour. We’re playing well together and really enjoying ourselves.”
Chief Technician Andrew Rigby
Band Sergeant of the RAF Squadronaires
RAF musicians are in the US as part of a series of events to mark RAF 100. They have played two concerts and supported the ceremony which saw 617 Squadron Dambusters reform on the F-35B Lightning.
“It’s an incredible experience and a highlight of every member’s career. I’ve been in the service for 24 years and haven’t done anything quite like this.”
Sergeant Kevin Burns
Chief Master/ lead trumpeter with the Airmen of Note