Members of the U.S. Navy Band perform at the Ford Center last year. The bands returning to campus Saturday.
Jared Burleson I The Daily Mississippian
The United States Navy Concert Band will be in town this weekend for an unforgettable performance. The band will perform tomorrow at 7 p.m. in the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts as a part of their national tour that lasts Feb. 5 – 28.
This tour is unique, as it is comprised of different units of the Navy, and the primary purpose of the national tour is to allow people from around the United States to have an opportunity to see these musical ensembles.
World renowned, the Navy band consistently performs with as much excitement, energy and patriotism when playing in a local school gymnasium as they do while performing in prestigious music halls. Each concert is very spirited while revealing the talents of each sector of the Navy.
Kate Meacham, marketing director for the Ford Center, is very excited about the Navy making an appearance.
“Each year a different unit of the Armed Forces goes on a national tour,” Meacham said. “This year, the United States Navy is doing a Southeast tour. Next year, it might be the Air Force or the Army.”
Meacham also stated that the response from the students and the community is always outstanding.
“The community gets really excited about it,” she said. “Each time a unit of the Armed Forces comes to perform, we generally have a large crowd.”
Meacham remarked that when they perform a song to honor the veterans in the audience it is truly remarkable and possibly the best part of the show.
The United States Navy is firmly committed to the Music in the Schools program. Since 1991, the Navy has traveled to numerous schools with the program to show why it is necessary to continue musical education.
The program also allows younger generations to connect with the United States Navy. The Concert Band thoroughly enjoys performing at local schools and providing musical clinics for them as well as numerous universities.
On each tour, the band frequently posts on the Navy Band Blog to keep people updated on their shows and experiences along the road.
Free tickets are available to those who visit the Ford Center website and print a Ticket Request Form. After filling it out, just take it to the Box Office in the Student Union to receive your tickets.
