BAND

Organization
Air Force bands are classified as premier bands and regional bands. There are two premier bands -- The United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C., and the United States Air Force Academy Band(formerly the USAF Band of the Rockies) in Colorado Springs, Colo. Ten regional bands are found at eight locations in the continental United States and operate from four locations overseas (Germany, Japan, Alaska and Hawaii). In addition, there are 11 Air National Guard bands at various locations throughout the United States. Bands are organized so that they may be subdivided into several smaller musical units capable of performing autonomously. The number, size and musical capabilities of these groups depend on the overall size of the band and the local or regional needs. Examples of performing units that support the band mission are:
-- Concert Band -- Performs concert, patriotic and popular entertainment music at high school, college, university and civic concerts.
-- Marching or Ceremonial Band -- Performs military marching and patriotic music at civic and military ceremonies or parades.
-- Jazz/Show Band -- Performs traditional "big band" and contemporary music in high schools, colleges, civic concerts and festivals.
-- Popular Music Ensemble -- Performs a variety of popular music to include rock, Top 40, country and "oldies" for recruiting, community concerts and authorized official functions.
-- Chamber Ensemble -- Performs a variety of music using different instrumentation in concert settings for both military and civilian audiences.
-- Protocol Combo -- Performs background, dinner and dance music for official military social functions.
-- Individual Musicians -- Buglers for funerals, solo vocalists, pianists or other instrumentalists may perform for official functions or ceremonies.

History
Bands have grown from a very humble beginning to worldwide status. The 14 members of the first known "air force" band set foot on French soil in September 1917, carrying instruments purchased from their lieutenant's personal funds. The commander of the 36th Aeronautics Squadron, to which they were assigned, was so impressed with his musicians that he petitioned the American Red Cross in Paris to help find more instruments, and increased the band's size. Bands have come a long way since then. Throughout World War II, the bands of the Army Air Corps contributed significantly in supporting the morale of our troops. When the Air Force became a separate service in 1947, Air Corps bands also transferred to the young Air Force. Since then, bands have continued to inspire esprit de corps in our airmen, patriotism in our citizenry, and admiration and respect from people of all nations. With a legacy rooted in our American heritage, Air Force bands are attuned to the most current requirements and technology of the coming 21st century.