Comment: Military Bands

I got linked to this page trying to find out where and when Maynard Ferguson guest-played with the US Army band. It would have been in the early 50's, which I guess is the Korean war.

I had an arranger/sax player boyfriend who was in the Army Band and he told me Maynard rehearsed without a shirt and when he hit the high notes his stomach turned blue.

(Fascinating. --DR)

One of the pleasures of living in the Washington, D.C. area (there ARE some), is that the three main military jazz bands make their homes here.

One of the better concerts I attended this past year was at George Washington University, where the Airmen of Note, th U-S Air Force's jazz group, played host to the great guitarist Pat Martino. The band was inspired by Martino's presence and the guitarist clearly dug being surrounded by such a talented big band, an experience I expect he doesn't get to enjoy every day. And, of course, the icing on these GI jazz "cakes": not a penny is charged for admission.

The Army Blues, the Navy's Commodores and the Airmen all present periodic concerts in the DC area at attractive sites like the U-S Capitol steps, the Navy Memorial and various local parks, in addition to their tours around the country.

Hard to say which of the three bands is "best". Each of them is worth hearing any time you get the opportunity.

John Birchard