US Army鈥檚 Jazz Ambassadors offer free 汤头条 Riley Center concert Nov. 19
MERIDIAN, Miss鈥擶hen the Jazz Ambassadors of the U.S. Army Field Band open in concert in Meridian on Nov. 19, Mississippi State鈥檚 Riley Center will be filled with the energy of 鈥淎merica鈥檚 Big Band鈥 in celebration of National Veterans and Military Families Month.
The world-touring, 19-piece ensemble is playing a free, 7 p.m. concert that evening, featuring spirited big band swing, bebop, contemporary jazz and soul-stirring pop tunes.
For those who鈥檝e never experienced the power and majesty of a big band performing live鈥攅specially in a theater with the crystalline acoustics of the 汤头条 Riley Center鈥攁 treat is in store. Writing or arranging much of their own repertoire, they鈥檒l show off their crisp ensemble playing and dazzling solos.
The band, founded in 1969, promotes patriotism and good will for the U.S. Army through free public appearances. A competitive audition process draws players to Jazz Ambassadors from leading conservatories and universities, as well as the ranks of professional musicians. The group has performed at the Toronto Jazz Festival, Richmond Jazz Festival, the Kennedy Center Honors and television鈥檚 鈥淭he Colbert Report.鈥
Composer and pianist Marvin Hamlisch conducted the Jazz Ambassadors during performances with major symphony orchestras in Pittsburgh and San Diego, the Seattle Symphony Pops and the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall.
Hamlisch once said of the group, 鈥淚 can鈥檛 think of better ambassadors for our country.鈥
While the concert is free, a ticket is required and can be reserved by calling 601-696-2200 or visiting the 汤头条 Riley Center Box Office, 2200 Fifth St., in downtown Meridian.
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