Jazz Ambassadors tour the last frontier

By Mr. Jonathan Agee (JFHQNCRMDW)November 2, 2012

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(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. (Nov. 1, 2012) -- Last month, the Jazz Ambassadors traveled to Alaska, where they performed a week of concerts and educational clinics throughout the state.

It was the first time in more than 30 years that the Jazz Ambassadors toured Alaska. The 19-member ensemble, which formed in 1969 as part of the U.S. Army Field Band, was eager to reach as many people as possible with their signature jazz sound.

Taking into consideration the nearly daylong flight into and out of the state, they had about five days to engage -- and they made the most of every second.

Traveling more than 1,000 miles on tour, the band conducted five educational clinics, two educational assemblies and four concerts. For many residents, having the chance to see the Jazz Ambassadors perform was a rare treat.

"Last night I stood at the door as the community was leaving. Everyone thanked us for hosting," said Amy Spargo, principal of Wasilla High School. "Some of the veterans were excited. They felt encouraged, validated and honored by having the group here. Many people said it is just hard to get that quality of music in rural Alaska."

Chief Warrant Officer 4 William S. McCulloch, director of the Jazz Ambassadors, said the Army Field Band is tasked to carry the Army story to the grassroots of America, and Alaska is a critical part of that mission.

"It's important we get out to all corners; we don't leave anyone out," McCulloch said. "It's very easy to play locally, and we do a lot local. But we don't want the people of Alaska to think, 'OK, they're out there and they have sort of forgotten about us.' "

The Army Field Band also has an extensive educational outreach program, going into schools and providing instrument-specific instruction for students looking to improve their skills.

"As a principal, certainly I wanted my kids and their parents to see what the potential is," said Trevan Walker, principal of Seward High School. "We're building a music program here in Seward and I think the timing is absolutely perfect. I really do expect this to inspire the next generation of musicians from Seward, which was the reason I was so excited to host the Jazz Ambassadors here."

The Jazz Ambassadors also coordinated with local schools to arrange for outstanding young musicians to perform onstage with the Soldiers during the concert. For some students, the opportunity was the highlight of their young career.

"My daughter played the trombone with them. That was a really fun thing," Spargo said. "She was just a chatterbox last night at home because she got a chance to hear what she said were 'some of the best trombone players in her life.' "

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