The U.S. Army Concert Band Headquartered in Washington, DC, The U.S. Army Concert Band has performed in concert venues such as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and Hollywood Bowl. The ensemble participates in ongoing, educational outreach and often appears at national and international music events.
Current Openings
The U.S. Army Concert Band Horn Apply by: November 21 Audition date(s): December 5 - December 6 View Job Description
Upcoming Events
This is Halloween! Friday / Oct 28 / 8 pm University of Mary Washington presents The U.S. Army Concert Band with an evening of Halloween-themed gems to get you ready for the wicked weekend. Free and open to the public. NO TIX.
Pershing's Own Salute to Veterans Thursday / Nov 10 / 7:30 pm The U.S. Army Band presents a patriotic Salute to Veterans on the eve of Veterans Day. This performance is sponsored by the Veterans and the Arts Initiative at Hylton Performing Arts Center. FREE TIX from HPAC.
Get Tickets
flute
MSG Robert Aughtry Section Leader flute MSG Robert Aughtry Gaffney, NC
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2000
Alum: University of South Carolina / University of South Carolina / Louisiana State University
Flutist Master Sergeant Robert Aughtry joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2000 after completing coursework for a Doctorate of Music Arts in Flute Performance (ABD) from the Louisiana State University. A native of Gaffney, South Carolina, he holds a Master of Music in Flute Performance and a Bachelor of Music degree, emphasis in Music Education with a Performance Certificate from the University of South Carolina. Aughtry currently serves as flutist with the Concert Band and Orchestra. In December of 2016, he was named to be the flutist of The U.S. Army Band Woodwind Quintet and currently serves as the Woodwind Quintet Group Leader.Aughtry is active in the DC metropolitan area as an adjudicator, clinician, recording artist and teacher. He was a featured performer on a memorial concert at the 2011 National Flute Association convention in Charlotte, NC and has performed at Clarinetfest in Atlanta and in Ostend, Belgium. He has been a featured soloist with the Army Concert Band and with the Army Orchestra many times during his 22-year career. In 2012, he performed with MSG(r) Barbara Vigil in a piccolo duet on the Concert Band tour of China. He is the Director of Handbell Choirs at his Church in Burke, VA, where he conducts three choirs of handbells from elementary age through adult. He and his partner, Andrew, live in Reston.
MSG Megan Lomonof Piccolo flute MSG Megan Lomonof Oak Lawn, IL
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2009
Alum: Illinois State University / U of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
MSG Megan Lomonof is a member of the United States Army "Pershing's Own" Ceremonial Band. She holds a Bachelors degree in music education from Illinois State University and a Masters degree in flute performance from the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music. She has advanced and been a prizewinner in young artist competitions through the Flute Society of Kentucky, Atlanta Flute Society, Cincinnati Flute Symposium, and the Frank Bowen Flute Competition and has been a clinician at the Mid-Atlantic Flute Fair. She has won both the National Flute Association's Flute and Piccolo Masterclass competitions and both of Illinois State University's band and orchestra concerto competitions. She spends her free time teaching flute lessons, baking delicious foods, reading science fiction and epic fantasy novels, and training and competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
SFC Elizabeth Mcginness Principal flute SFC Elizabeth Mcginness Hartville, OH
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2009
Alum: Eastman School of Music / Southern Methodist University
Elizabeth (Elli) McGinness is the Principal Flutist of The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own," of which she has been a member since 2009. She is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music (BM) and Southern Methodist University (MM). She has performed with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and is an original member of the National Chamber Winds. McGinness and her husband, John, reside in Northern Virginia with their two young boys.
SSG Carol Joe Inglis flute SSG Carol Joe Inglis Los Angeles, CA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2016
Alum: University of California Santa Barbara / U of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
Los Angeles native SSG Carol Joe Inglis joined The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2016. Inglis received her Master of Music and Artist Diploma degrees in Flute Performance at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, under the tutelage of Dr. Bradley Garner. Prior to attending CCM, Carol received her Bachelor of Music degree at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she studied with Jill Felber and graduated with distinction in the major. Inglis has competed and received prizes from competitions such as the National Flute Association’s Young Artist Competition, the Chicago Flute Club’s Young Artist Competition, the Music Teachers National Association’s Young Artist Competition and Young Artist Chamber Music Competition, and has been featured as a concerto soloist with the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music’s Philharmonia Orchestra. Inglis has spent her summers participating in music festivals such as the National Repertory Orchestra, the Brevard Music Festival, the Marrowstone Music Festival, and the Kent/Blossom Music Festival. When Inglis isn’t playing her flute, you can find her on her yoga mat, hiking in the mountains, or testing out new recipes in the kitchen.
oboe
SGM Amanda Jury Principal oboe SGM Amanda Jury Belmont, MA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2000
Alum: Boston University / New England Conservatory of Music
SGM Amanda Jury, originally from Belmont, MA has been a member of “Pershing’s Own” since 2000. After beginning her career as the English Horn player, she became the principal oboist of the band in 2008. Over the years, Jury has been a featured soloist, most notably at the International Double Reed Society Grande Finale Concert in 2003 and Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center in 2010. As an active freelance musician in the community, Jury has performed with numerous ensembles including the Boston Symphony, the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, the National Symphony, the Baltimore Symphony, the Kennedy Center Opera Orchestra, the New World Symphony as one of their finalists, and held the position of second oboe with the Annapolis Symphony from 1999-2014.Jury received a full scholarship to attend Boston University as a dean scholar, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree and received a Master of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music. She has attended numerous summer festivals including the National Repertory Orchestra, National Orchestra Institute, Norfolk Chamber Music Festival, and the Tanglewood Music Center where she was the recipient of the Ralph Gomberg Award. Jury resides in northern Virginia with her husband and two daughters.
SFC Janice Kim oboe SFC Janice Kim Seoul, South Korea,
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2011
Alum: George Mason University / Manhattan School of Music
Originally from Seoul, South Korea, SFC Janice Kim, is an oboist with The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" since 2011. Kim has a background in performance and arts management. In NYC, she worked administratively with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and performed as an oboist with numerous ensembles along the East Coast, including Ensemble 212, Ensemble du Monde, Symphony in C Orchestra, the National Wind Ensemble at Carnegie Hall, and under conductors such as Leonard Slatkin. As a chamber musician, she was invited to play at the Institute for World Politics in Washington, D.C., with the Madison Chamber Players, and was an original member of The Alcova Ensemble. She was an assistant to flutist, Linda Chesis during the 2010 Cooperstown Chamber Music Festival, where she also performed on the Bach Cantata Concert Series. In 2010, she was a selected Young Artist at Pepperdine's Fall for Music Weekend, and has participated in master classes with Joseph Robinson, Peter Smith, Richard Killmer, Carolyn Hove, Jeffery Rathbun, Jonathan Blumenfeld, and John Ferrillo. She was honored to attend the very last Wild Acres Oboe Camp with John Mack, in 2005. She holds a Master of Music degree from the Manhattan School of Music where she studied with Liang Wang (principal oboist, New York Philharmonic), and a Bachelor of Music degree from George Mason University, where she was a student of Dr. Lorrie Berkshire Brown, and the 2006 Concerto Competition winner.
english horn
SFC Meredeth Rouse Producer / Section Leader english horn SFC Meredeth Rouse Boston, MA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2009
Alum: New England Conservatory / Manhattan School of Music
SFC Meredeth Rouse joined the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2009. She has been featured as a soloist with the Concert Band at the US Capitol and at George Mason University, and with the Orchestra at the Library of Congress. Rouse is also a member of the Woodwind Quintet. A former member of the Louisiana Philharmonic, the Princeton Symphony, the Binghamton Philharmonic, and the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, she has also performed as a guest with Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Opera Boston, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Rouse holds a Bachelor's degree from the New England Conservatory. She completed a Master's degree in Orchestral Performance and a Professional Studies Certificate at the Manhattan School of Music, where she later served four years as oboe teaching assistant. Former faculty of Southeastern Louisiana University, she currently plays English horn for the Fairfax Symphony in Virginia.
clarinet
SGM Donald Hoffman Element Leader clarinet SGM Donald Hoffman Northumberland, PA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 1995
Alum: Philadelphia College of Performing Arts / Temple University
SGM Donald Hoffman is a member of the first clarinet section with the United States Army Concert Band, Fort Myer, Virginia. He also performs frequently as principal clarinetist with the US Army Orchestra, as well as pianist for the Concert Band. Originally from Northumberland, Pennsylvania, he received a bachelor's degree from the College of Performing Arts in Philadelphia. He furthered his studies at the Franz Liszt Academy in Budapest, Hungary, and Temple University in Philadelphia, earning a master's degree in performance. Later, he completed three years of orchestral training at the Curtis Institute of Music. In addition to appearing with "Pershing’s Own" since 1995, Hoffman has performed with many of the orchestras in the Washington, D.C., area, including the National Symphony and the Kennedy Center Opera and Ballet Orchestra. He has also appeared as a soloist with the Arlington Symphony, Susquehanna Valley Symphony Orchestra, and the U.S. Army Band, "Pershing’s Own." His teachers have included Ronald Reuben, bass clarinetist with the Philadelphia Orchestra, renowned Hungarian soloist, Kalman Berkes, and Loren Kitt, principal of the National Symphony.
MSG Leigh LaFosse clarinet MSG Leigh LaFosse Kingwood, TX
(Video) The U.S. Army Concert Band at Schlesinger Hall
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2007
Alum: Texas Tech University / Texas Tech University / Indiana University
MSG Leigh Lafosse joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing’s Own" in 2007 as a clarinet player in the Concert Band, and has spent her career deeply involved in the development and implementation of the unit’s educational programming. Lafosse attended Texas Tech University for her Bachelor and Master of Music degrees, and during her time in Texas, she enjoyed opportunities playing with the Galveston Symphony, the Midland-Odessa Symphony, the Abilene Philharmonic, the Big Spring Symphony, and the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra. She was the recipient of a Chancellor’s Fellowship from Indiana University where she served as an associate instructor and received a Doctorate of Music. Lafosse was the recipient of the USO’s 2018 C. Haskell Small Award for Volunteerism and has been active in multiple education centric non-profits, including roles as Director of MD/DC Odyssey of the Mind and as Education Director for the Del-Ray Artisans, and is currently serving with Baltimore based THREAD, Reading Partners in DC, and as Treasurer and Education Director for The National Capital Puppetry Guild.
MSG Timothy Sutfin Concertmaster / Section Leader clarinet MSG Timothy Sutfin Crystal Lake, IL
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2010
Alum: Northwestern University / Oklahoma City University
MSG Timothy Sutfin has been a member of The U.S. Army Band "Pershing’s Own" since 2010, and was appointed as Concertmaster of The U.S. Army Concert Band in 2016. Sutfin began his military career in 2008 as the Eb clarinetist with The United States Military Academy Band at West Point. In addition to a successful military career, Sutfin served as second clarinet with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic from 2005-2008. He has also performed with the Richmond Symphony, Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, Winston-Salem Symphony, Texas Festival Orchestra, Quartz Mountain Music Festival Orchestra, and served on the faculty at Oklahoma City University from 2007 to 2008. Sutfin received a Bachelor of Music magna cum laude from Northwestern University in 2004, and a Master of Music with high honors from Oklahoma City University in 2007. His primary teachers include Russell Dagon, Jane Carl, Charlene Zimmerman, and Chad Burrow.
MSG Jennifer Trujillo clarinet MSG Jennifer Trujillo Williamsville, NY
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2005
Alum: Louisiana State University
MSG Jennifer Trujillo has been a member of The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" since 2005. After beginning her career in the Ceremonial Band, Trujillo has been performing with the Concert Band and the U.S. Army Orchestra since 2008. In her years in The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own," MSG Trujillo has performed on numerous solo, chamber, and clarinet quartet/quintet recitals and masterclass, including masterclasses in China and around the country. Trujillo earned a Bachelor of Music in clarinet performance and a Bachelor of Music Education from Louisiana State University studying with Steve Cohen. Prior to joining "Pershing's Own," Trujillo enjoyed spending summers at the Brevard Music Center, The Chautauqua Institute, and studying at The University of Michigan with teachers including Eli Eban, Eric Ginsberg, and Fred Ormand.
SFC Kevin Simpson clarinet SFC Kevin Simpson Upland, CA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2008
Alum: University of Southern California / Manhattan School of Music
SFC Kevin Simpson began his career in The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2008 after winning a position with the Ceremonial Band. He performed with the Ceremonial Band for two years, at which point he auditioned for the Concert Band and was awarded a position in the clarinet section. Since then he has performed with the Concert Band for a wide variety of audiences in venues ranging from local middle schools to the Kennedy Center and Avery Fischer Hall. In addition to his work with the ensemble, Simpson has performed solo and chamber music as part of the TUSAB recital series, both on clarinet and as a vocalist. Simpson lives in Alexandria, Virginia, with his wife, Leigh, who is also a clarinet player in the concert band, and their dog Ronin. When not working with the band, he volunteers as a martial arts instructor at several karate schools in Alexandria and works as a church vocalist.
SFC Aaron Scott Producer clarinet SFC Aaron Scott Pittsburgh, PA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2009
Alum: Youngstown State University / University of Cincinnati / University of Cincinnati
Since arriving to The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own", SFC Aaron D. Scott has performed concerts, ceremonies, and master classes throughout the Washington, D.C., metro area and across the United States at notable halls such as the Kennedy Center, The Academy of Music, and Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center. In addition to the Concert Band, Scott performs with The United States Army Woodwind Quintet reaching communities and schools across the nation.Prior to his appointment to The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own", Scott served as principal clarinet of the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra in Warren, Ohio and was previously the second/E-flat clarinet. Scott also had the privilege of performing with The New World Symphony, Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra.As an active chamber musician, Scott has also performed in a multitude of festivals throughout Europe and North America. Popular music festivals such as the American Institute of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria, the Opera Theatre and Music Festival of Lucca, Italy, Sarasota Music Festival in Florida, Brevard Music Center of North Carolina, and Hot Springs Music Festival of Arkansas are some of his favorites.
SSG Charles Sonoda clarinet SSG Charles Sonoda Torrance, CA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2018
Alum: DePaul University / Northwestern University
SSG Charles Sonoda joined The U.S. Army Band in October of 2018. He earned his Bachelor of Music at DePaul University and his Master of Music at Northwestern University, where he performed as co-principal clarinetist of the university’s orchestra on their inaugural international tour to Asia, in 2018. Sonoda has also performed with the National Repertory Orchestra, QuartzMountain Music Festival Orchestra, and Chicago Symphonic Winds. His primary teachers include Stephen Williamson, Steve Cohen, and Julie DeRoche.Sonoda is also an active learner of Chinese and has completed additional studies in language and literature at Shanghai’s Fudan University and the Beijing Language and Culture University. Sonoda has been awarded prizes at Chinese speech competitions at Purdue University, the University of Notre Dame, and the Beijing Language and Culture University.
SSG John Milakovich clarinet SSG John Milakovich Columbia, SC
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2019
Alum: DePaul University / Northwestern University
SSG John Milakovich joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in March of 2019. He earned his Bachelor of Music at DePaul University and continued his studies for his Master of Music at Northwestern University, where he performed as co-principal clarinetist when the university’s symphony orchestra toured Asia in the spring of 2018. His primary teachers include Stephen Williamson, Julie DeRoche, Steve Cohen, and Wagner Campos. He attended the Brevard Music Festival and was a member of the inaugural season for the Festival Napa Valley Blackburn Music Academy in 2017 where he performed with members of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. Before joining “Pershing’s Own”, Milakovich was a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago. Milakovich currently lives in Alexandria, Virginia with his rescue dog Cody.
SSG Kenji Bellavigna clarinet SSG Kenji Bellavigna Corte Madera, CA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2019
Alum: UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music / McGill University Schulich School of Music
SSG Kenji Bellavigna grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he began playing clarinet at age 10. After being a member of the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra, Bellavigna attended the University of California, Los Angeles where he received his BA in clarinet performance in 2016. He then pursued a master’s degree at McGill University in Montreal, Canada from 2016 through 2018. During his time as a student, Bellavigna performed with the YMF Debut Orchestra, the Montreal Symphony, and attended the Brevard and Aspen music festivals. As a member of the Tetrakis Trio, he was a winner of the 2016 McGill Chamber Music Competition and a semi-finalist at the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition Senior Strings Division in 2018. Bellavigna's teachers include Jerry Simas, Jose Gonzales, Yehuda Gilad and Todd Cope. Bellavigna joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2019 and currently lives in Alexandria VA, where in his free time he enjoys reading and mountain biking.
SSG Samantha Frenduto clarinet SSG Samantha Frenduto Durham, NC
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2020
Alum: University of North Carolina at Greensboro / New England Conservatory of Music
SSG Samantha Frenduto joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2020. Frenduto received her Master of Music degree in 2019 from New England Conservatory where she studied with Boston Symphony clarinetist, Michael Wayne. Throughout her time in Boston, she performed with the Boston Civic Symphony, Eureka Ensemble, and various chamber groups. She also performed concerts with the NEC Philharmonia and many renowned conductors including Hugh Wolff, Leonard Slatkin, and Jeffrey Kahane. In 2017, she received her Bachelor of Music degree, summa cum laude, from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro where her primary instructor was Dr. Anthony Taylor. In the summer of 2016, she was a featured soloist for the UNCG Wind Ensemble on their European Concert Tour, giving performances in the Czech Republic, Austria, and Italy. As a recipient of the Minerva Music Scholarship at UNCG, Frenduto received full tuition and extra solo performing opportunities. In the summers, she participated in multiple festivals including Round Top Festival Institute, Brevard Music Center, Eastern Music Festival, and Sewanee Summer Music Festival. In her spare time, she enjoys long distance running, cooking, and yoga.
bass clarinet
MSG Martin Gold bass clarinet MSG Martin Gold Sarasota, FL
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2004
Alum: University of Florida / Indiana University
MSG Martin Gold has served as clarinetist and bass clarinetist with The U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own”, since 2004. He has been a featured soloist with the U.S. Army Band’s Summer Concert Series, a frequent contributor to the U.S. Army Orchestra. Gold holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Florida and a Master of Music degree from Indiana University, with a cognate in music composition. He has performed with the Richmond Symphony, the Fairfax Symphony, the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, the Valdosta Georgia Symphony, the Central Florida Symphony, the Southwest Florida Symphony, and the Orquesta Sinfonica de la UANL in Monterrey, Mexico. As an arranger, Gold has written extensively for wind quintet and clarinet choir, as well as for concert band, marching band, strings, and brass quintet. Gold’s arrangements have been heard on national television and radio.
SSG Davis Hampton bass clarinet SSG Davis Hampton Bellingham, WA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2020
Alum: University of Puget Sound / San Francisco Conservatory of Music / San Francisco Conservatory of Music
SSG Davis Hampton joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Concert Band in 2021 as principal bass clarinetist. Hampton received a Bachelor of Music in clarinet performance from the University of Puget Sound in 2018. He went on to receive his Master of Music in clarinet in 2020 and Professional Studies Diploma in bass clarinet in 2021, both from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Hampton has performed with the Pacific Northwest Ballet Orchestra, Auburn Symphony Orchestra, San Francisco Contemporary Music Players, and hip hop orchestra Ensemble Mik Nawooj, where he can be heard on their album Death Become Life. He has also shared programs and worked with the Kronos Quartet where he premiered woodwind quartet adaptations of repertoire from their 50 For The Future project. Hampton is a 2017 University of Puget Sound Concerto Competition Winner and has spent summers at the Eastern Music Festival and the Madeleine Island Chamber Music Festival. His primary teachers include Ray Downey, Jennifer Nelson, Jerry Simas, and Jeff Anderle.
bassoon
MSG Dean Woods Group Leader & Principal bassoon MSG Dean Woods Dalton, GA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2000
Alum: Cleveland Institute of Music
MSG Dean Woods has been a member of The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" since 2000. He has won several prestigious awards at the Gillet International bassoon competition held around the world every year. Dean is currently principal bassoon of the Alexandria and the Fairfax Symphonies. He also performs with the National Symphony from time to time. Woods plays guitar, mandolin, and sings in a specialty group within the U.S. Army Band called Country Roads.
SFC Patricia Morgan Section Leader bassoon SFC Patricia Morgan Glenn Dale, MD
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2015
Alum: Peabody Institute / Rice University
SFC Patricia Morgan, bassoonist, received her bachelor’s degree in performance from The Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University in her home state. Morgan continued her studies with Benjamin Kamins at Rice University, earning a master’s degree. Since then, she has held positions with the Augusta (GA) Symphony, the Chattanooga Symphony, the Des Moines Metro Opera, and the Annapolis Symphony. Morgan joined The U.S. Army Field Band in 2009 and auditioned and earned her position with The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” five years later. She frequently performs with the U.S. Army Band Woodwind Quintet in clinics and performances throughout the country.
(Video) LIVE - The U.S. Army Concert Band Summer Concert
SSG Thomas Reynolds bassoon SSG Thomas Reynolds Farmington Hills, MI
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2019
Alum: University of Michigan / U of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
SSG Thomas Reynolds joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2019. Prior to his appointment to “Pershing’s Own,” he served as Co-Principal Bassoonist in the U.S. Coast Guard Band in New London, CT from 2011 to 2018. During his time in Connecticut, he was also Assistant Principal Bassoon in the Hartford Symphony Orchestra and was a regular guest with the Rhode Island Philharmonic. Since relocating to the Mid-Atlantic Region, he has performed with the Washington National Opera, the Reading Symphony Orchestra, and the York Symphony Orchestra. Reynolds is an active bassoon teacher and was the bassoon instructor at Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ, from 2017 to 2019. Reynolds holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. His teachers include William Short, William Winstead, Jeffrey Lyman, Richard Beene, and Robert Williams.
saxophone
SGM Steve Ticknor Group Leader & Principal saxophone SGM Steve Ticknor Topeka, KS
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 1997
Alum: Wichita State University / The University of Missouri-Kansas City
SGM Steve Ticknor began with The U.S. Army Band "Pershing’s Own" in 1997. A Kansas native, Ticknor joined the unit while finishing work on his Masters degree of Saxophone Performance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He holds a Music Education degree from Wichita State University. Currently, he performs as a member of the Concert Band, as well musically supporting the Ceremonial Band, the Blues, Downrange, and the Orchestra. He has been featured numerous times as a soloist with the Concert Band to include performances at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center, the U.S. Capitol, and at the Kennedy Center. In addition to his career at The U.S. Army Band, Ticknor has had the great fortune to teach music both at the National Cathedral School and the Washington Conservatory of Music; guest lecture/perform for the Ambassador and staff of the Embassy of Belgium; clinician a variety of Schools of Music, the Virginia Bandmasters Conference, and local schools; and work as a musician and character (Sheriff of Nottingham) with Disney Music and Entertainment Company. Ticknor resides in Maryland with his wife and two daughters.
MSG Michael Vance saxophone MSG Michael Vance Woodland, WA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2001
Alum: Brigham Young University / Indiana University
A native of Vancouver, WA, MSG Michael Vance earned a Bachelor of Music degree in saxophone performance and pedagogy from Brigham Young University and a Master of Music degree in jazz studies from Indiana University, where he was an associate instructor. Vance has worked with numerous professional ensembles, including the Jimmy Dorsey Jazz Orchestra, the Guy Lombardo Jazz Orchestra, the Larry Elgart Jazz Orchestra, the Gene Krupa Big Band, the David Baker Jazz Quintet, the Utah Symphony, and the Four Tops. Vance has performed with James Moody, Bob Mintzer, Dick Oatts, John Riley, Rufus Reid, John Clayton, Marvin Stamm, Toni Tennille, and Maureen McGovern, to name a few. In the spring of 2007 he performed at the CSM Jazz Festival as a guest soloist with Randy Brecker. Vance is a member of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” stationed at Fort Myer, VA. He has performed for various dignitaries and government leaders, including President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney. He was honored to play for the funerals of Presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford.
SFC Paul Tucker Section Leader saxophone SFC Paul Tucker Los Altos, CA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2006
Alum: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign / Indiana University / CNR Cergy-Pontoise, France
SFC Paul Tucker has been a member of "Pershing's Own" since 2006. Prior to joining The Army Band, Tucker studied in Paris at CNR Cergy-Pointoise, where he was awarded the Superieur Musique de Chambre and the Perfectionnement degree, the highest performance degree awarded in France. He also holds a Master of Music in saxophone from Indiana University, and a Bachelor of Music from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Tucker maintains an active performance and teaching schedule. He has performed with the National Symphony Orchestra, and was guest clinician at the 2008 Taiwan Saxophone Summer Festival. Most recently, Tucker recorded a CD of saxophone music by Neil Thornock, composition professor at Brigham Young University, which was just released on the Navona classical label. He also maintains an active private teaching studio in Northern Virginia. Tucker has been a finalist in numerous international competitions, including runner up at the 2006 Adolphe Sax l'Hay les Roses Concours, runner up at the 2004 North American Saxophone Alliance Classical Competition, semi-finalist in the 2011 Concert Artists GuildCompetition, and semi-finalist in the 2008 Jean-Marie Londeix Concours in Bangkok, Thailand. Tucker's teachers have included Jean Yves Fourmeau, Otis Murphy, Frederik Hemke and Debra Richtmeyer.
SFC Matthew Evans saxophone SFC Matthew Evans Kokomo, IN
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2015
Alum: Indiana University Jacobs School of Music / Indiana University Jacobs School of Music / Eastman School of Music
SFC Matthew Evans, an active soloist, chamber musician, teacher, and arranger, has performed in Thailand, Scotland, Germany, Japan, and throughout the United States. Along with his academic degrees, he has been awarded the Performer's Certificate at both the Eastman School of Music and the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, the highest performance distinction awarded at both institutions.Evans is a founding member of two saxophone quartets: Zzyzx Quartet and Project Fusion. In 2012, Zzyzx performed a featured concerto at North American Saxophone Alliance Biennial Conference in Tempe, AZ, and in 2011 became the first American chamber ensemble to advance to the semi-final round of the Osaka International Chamber Music Competition in Osaka, Japan. Project Fusion sparked national interest by displaying the distinct practice of performing entire musical programs from memory. They won the Gold Medal at the 40th Annual Fischoff Chamber Music Competition, and took both the Grand Prize and the Hugo Vianello Audience Choice Award at the 6th Plowman Chamber Music Competition. Evans has also won awards in the Music Teachers National Association Chamber Ensemble and Woodwind Solo Competitions, the North American Saxophone Alliance Quartet Competition, the J.C. Arriaga Chamber Music Competition, and the 65th Coleman International Chamber Music Competition. In 2013, Evans received the John Celantano Award for Excellence in Chamber Music from the Eastman School of Music.A new music enthusiast, Evans is past-president of OSSIA New Music and Director of Development with the [Switch~ Ensemble], a chamber music group dedicated to the promotion and creation of electroacoustic music. He regularly premieres new works by American composers, including recent compositions by Jason Thorpe Buchanan, Benjamin Hjertmann, and John Mackey.Originally from the small Midwestern town of Kokomo, Indiana, Evans loves living in Washington, DC, where you can find him running, taking part in board games, and spending time with friends and family.
trumpet
SGM Troy Mckay Group Leader trumpet SGM Troy Mckay Richmond, MO
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2001
Alum: Illinois State University / Northwestern University
SGM Troy McKay grew up in Richmond, Missouri. In 1991 he earned a position in the John Phillip Sousa National High School Honors Band, where he performed for one week in Washington, D.C. with The United States Marine Band “President’s Own.” It was this experience that inspired him to serve his country through music.In 1997 he earned a bachelor’s degree in music education at Illinois State University, studying trumpet with Dr. Amy Gilreath, and in 1998 he earned a master’s degree in trumpet performance as part of the last studio of Vincent Cichowicz. McKay began his military career in 1998 as a bugler with the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, and he has played trumpet with The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” since joining the Ceremonial Band in 2001. In 2003, McKay joined the Concert Band, where he continues to serve as a trumpet player and the Senior Producer.Prior to joining the Army, McKay performed throughout the United States, Europe, and Russia, most notably with the New Sigmund Romberg Orchestra, the American Russian Youth Orchestra, and the Orchestra of the World. As a member of “Pershing’s Own”, McKay has performed with the Concert Band in China, Norway, and our nation’s most prestigious concert halls such as the Kennedy Center, Kimmel Center, and the Lincoln Center. He has been a featured soloist with the band on tour as well as in our nation’s capital.As an active conductor and educator, McKay has taught at Washington Bible College, and he currently serves as the Music Director for First Baptist Church of Waldorf, where he conducts both choir and orchestra. McKay resides in LaPlata, MD with his wife Lucile and their four sons.
MSG Jesse Tubb Section Leader & Producer trumpet MSG Jesse Tubb South Lake Tahoe, CA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2005
Alum: California State University Stanislaus / University of Michigan
MSG Jesse Tubb was born and raised in South Lake Tahoe, California. He began playing the trumpet at age 9, and later pursued his musical studies at California State University Stanislaus where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education in 1999. He then went on to attend the University of Michigan where he earned two Master of Music degrees, one in Trumpet Performance and the other in Jazz Improvisation. MSG Tubb joined the Army Reserves and performed with the 91st Division Reserve Band from 1996 to 1999, and then with the 70th Division Reserve Band from 1999-2002. In 2002, he became a member of The United Stated Army Field Band, which allowed him to perform around the country. In 2005, he joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Ceremonial Band for two years, after which he won his current position in the Concert Band. His interests include adventure racing, coaching and meditation.
SFC Erik J. Ramos Producer trumpet SFC Erik J. Ramos Saint John, IN
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2008
Alum: Valparaiso University / Indiana University / Catholic University of America
SFC EJ Ramos began playing the trumpet at the age of 10. He is a graduate of Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights, IL. It was here that his passion for music began. During his time at Valparaiso University he was a marching member of The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps of Rosemont, IL. While with the corps, in 2003, he was named Drum Corps International’s Individual & Ensemble Champion of the Trumpet Division. Ramos has been invited back numerous times to perform at Valpo’s Annual John Phillip Sousa Concert as a guest soloist under the baton of the world renowned Sousa scholar, Keith Brion. In 2006, Ramos was selected as a soloist for the inaugural cast of “INergy,” a group created by Music for All. Since joining The U.S. Army Band in 2008, he has enjoyed performing with various professional groups in the D.C. Metropolitan Area. SFC Ramos was a member of the Ceremonial Band for the first 12 years of his career where he had the honor to perform with The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets throughout the D.C. metropolitan area and all over the United States. His teachers include Chuck Steck, Matt Lee, Anthony Plog, Rafael Glaser, Steven Burns, Edmund Cord, Steven Hendrickson, and Charlie Daval.
SFC Kelley Corbett Principal trumpet SFC Kelley Corbett Fincastle, VA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2010
Alum: Virginia Tech / Mannes College of Music
SFC Kelley Corbett joined the U.S. Army Concert Band in December 2010. Prior to joining the band, Corbett was an active member of New York City’s music community. He has performed as a soloist throughout much of the east coast of the United States as well as in Canada, Mexico, and Japan. As a freelance musician in New York City, he performed regularly with various groups at both Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center and at many of the city’s most popular venues. Corbett has performed with members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, the Berlin Philharmonic, the Pittsburgh Symphony, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic, and has appeared with such groups as the Tokyo Symphony, the Hartford Symphony, the Roanoke Symphony, and Opera Roanoke. Corbett holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music from Virginia Tech and a Master of Music degree from the Mannes College of Music, and has received multiple fellowships from both the National Orchestral Institute in Maryland and the Pacific Music Festival in Sapporo, Japan. Corbett resides in Alexandria, Virginia, with his wife, Katherine Hanna.
SFC Lorenzo Trujillo trumpet SFC Lorenzo Trujillo Lakewood, CO
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2012
Alum: University of Louisville / California Institute of the Arts / University of California - Los Angeles
SFC Lorenzo F. Trujillo began his musical life at the age of four on the violin. By the time he was only six, he could be seen performing throughout Colorado and New Mexico. It wasn't until high school that he started seriously playing the trumpet. Since then, he has studied, performed, and recorded in a wide variety of classical, jazz, and popular styles. Trujillo has premiered multiple new works for trumpet and has regularly been seen giving masterclasses across the country. His performances have taken him through over 480 cities throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil. Lorenzo's professional experience also includes tours with The Dallas Brass, Lead Trumpet with Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, and two seasons as Principal Trumpet of the Lyric Opera of Los Angeles. Among the world-famous artists with whom Trujillo has appeared with are Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, Travis Tritt, Michael MacDonald, Linda Ronstadt, Harry Connick, Gregory Hines, Poncho Sanchez, Papa Rodriguez, Sheila E., Phil Woods, Curtis Fuller, Jimmy Heath, James Moody, Jon Faddis, and Wayne Bergeron. After four years of teaching at the university level, Lorenzo has chosen a new career and now serves in The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own."
SFC Drew Fremder trumpet SFC Drew Fremder Cedarburg, WI
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2013
Alum: Indiana University / Baylor University
SSG Andrew Fremder joined The United States Army Band "Pershing's Own" Ceremonial Band in August of 2013. Hailing from Cedarburg, Wisconsin, he completed his bachelor's in Music Performance from Indiana University in 2011 as a Jacobs Scholar and his master's from Baylor University in the spring of 2013. An award winning chamber musician, Andrew helped lead the Baylor University Trumpet Ensemble to the National Trumpet Competition finals twice, earning 1st place in the Spring of 2013.An avid freelancer, and passionate for studio work, Fremder has recorded on several A-list Christian records for Provident Label Group LLC, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, including Tenth Avenue North and Grammy Winner Chris Tomlin.While at Baylor University, Fremder played with the Waco Symphony Orchestra, Imperial Brass, and the Dallas Wind Symphony as well as attending the Brevard Music Festival in 2012. His primary teachers include Mark Niehaus, John Rommel, Wiff Rudd, Mark Schubert, and Mark Hughes.
(Video) Instrument Demonstration for Beginning Band
SSG David Puchkoff trumpet SSG David Puchkoff Poughkeepsie, NY
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2019
Alum: Eastman School of Music
SSG David Puchkoff began his studies at the age of ten when he discovered his brother's old trumpet in the attic of his home. After playing the instrument, he immediately knew it was a perfect fit. Puchkoff attributes his passion for trumpet to a Canadian Brass CD gifted to him as a young teenager. From then on, he knew he had to pursue music professionally. Growing up in Poughkeepsie, NY, he was privileged to study with SFC Retired Stephen Luck a trumpeter from the West Point Academy Band. Puchkoff went on to pursue his bachelor's degree at the Eastman School of Music, where he performed and recorded several times with the Eastman Wind Ensemble. While attending Eastman, Puchkoff performed with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and the New World Symphony. He developed a passion for performing on baroque trumpet, studying with Brian Shaw, and continues to pursue early music opportunities outside the Army Band. As a culmination of his undergraduate career, Puchkoff was featured as a soloist with the Eastman Philharmonia, performing Jolivet's "Concertino" for trumpet, piano, and strings. His primary teachers include James Thompson, David Krauss, Ray Mase, and Kevin CobbPuchkoff earned fellowships to perform in Colorado with the National Repertory Orchestra and The Aspen Music Festival Orchestra. He believes the mountains not only inspired his trumpet playing but also led him to discover new hobbies such as mountain biking and brewing craft beer. Additionally, he enjoys cooking foods of all nationalities and hopes to travel the world one day. Puchkoff joined "Pershing's Own" in December of 2019 and currently performs as a substitute with the Richmond Symphony.
french horn
SGM Robert Craven Group Leader french horn SGM Robert Craven Manchester, NH
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 1998
Alum: Eastman School Of Music / The Juilliard School
SGM Robert Craven joined the U.S. Army Band in 1998 and has been playing with the Concert Band as Assistant Principal French Horn since 2001. Prior to joining the Army he held a position with the Mexican Orchestra, La Filharmonica de Queretaro. Originally from Manchester, New Hampshire, he left New England to study Horn at the Eastman school of Music in Rochester NY, were he earned a bachelor's degree in music at the Eastman School of Music. He also holds a master's degree in Music from The Juillliard School of Music in New York City. When he is not performing with the band, Craven is an active performer with many of the regions local ensembles and an avid teacher, including a position as horn and brass instructor at The Catholic University of America. Craven lives in Alexandria, Virginia with his wife, Kendra, son Benjamin, and daughter Claudia.
MSG Shawn Hagen Section Leader french horn MSG Shawn Hagen Paragould, AR
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2008
Alum: Arkansas State University / The University of Alabama
Prior to joining The United States Army Band SFC Shawn Hagen served eight years with The United States Army Field Band, during which he performed across the US and abroad with the Concert Band and the Embassy Brass Quintet.When not in uniform, Hagen is active in the thriving music scene surrounding D.C. He frequently joins the sections with The Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra and Musical Theater Orchestra. Recent performances included Washington National Opera’s 2016 Ring Cycle and solo horn in the Kennedy Center productions of Little Dancer, Gigi, and A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. He has also performed with the National Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Washington Concert Opera, Signature Theater, Apollo Chamber Orchestra, Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra, Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, Maryland Symphony Orchestra, and Annapolis Symphony Orchestra.Hagen is passionate about education. He served as horn professor at The Peabody Conservatory from 2012-2017. He was the brass coach for the Maryland Classic Youth Orchestra and has also taught at American University and The Bullis School. He serves as the Maryland state representative of the International Horn Society and frequently appears as a guest artist and adjudicator at horn workshops across the country.He lives in Silver Spring, MD with his son August. Both are currently exploring the wonders of the ukulele.
SFC Kelly Satterwhite Principal french horn SFC Kelly Satterwhite Baytown, TX
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2003
Alum: Louisiana State University
Originally from Baytown, Texas, SFC Satterwhite joinedThe U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2003. Satterwhitecompleteda Bachelor's Degree in Music Performance atLouisiana State University in 2003, where he studiedunder the tutelage of Seth Orgel.In 2014,Satterwhite was appointed to the position of Principal Horn of The U.S. Army Concert Band.He has performed with orchestras throughout the mid-Atlantic region including the National Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra, andthe Richmond Symphony. Satterwhite has also performedguest artist recitals and master classes at numerous academic institutions, including his alma mater, LSU, James Madison University, and the University of Delaware. Satterwhite is a 2016 graduate ofThe Catholic University of America's Columbus School of Law.
SFC Christy Klenke french horn SFC Christy Klenke State College, PA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2014
Alum: Duquesne University / Peabody Conservatory
A native of Central Pennsylvania, SFC Christy Klenke attended Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in music therapy. She studied horn performance at Yale University and the Peabody Conservatory, and her teachers include Zachary Smith, William Caballero, William Purvis and Denise Tryon. Klenke began her Army career with The United States Army Field Band, where she spent four years performing throughout the country. She joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2014. Klenke is a Board Certified Music Therapist and enjoys integrating these skills with her work at “Pershing’s Own.”
SSG Patrick Furlo french horn SSG Patrick Furlo Clarkston, MI
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2016
Alum: Michigan State University / The Juilliard School
Originally from Clarkston, Michigan, SSG Patrick Furlo joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2016.Furlo earned his bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Michigan State University in 2015. While studying at MSU, he performed as the Assistant Principal Horn in the Midland Symphony Orchestra, and was a regular substitute with the Lansing and Jackson Symphony Orchestras. He also spent a semester of his degree studying in Vienna, Austria.Following his time at MSU, he began his master’s degree at The Juilliard School. While studying at Juilliard, he freelanced in New York City and joined the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic as Fourth Horn. He completed the degree, while working at the Army Band, in 2018.He is an active freelancer, and is a substitute with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the Washington National Opera Orchestra at the Kennedy Center, and many regional orchestras. He has performed with The Who and Katy Perry.Furlo attended the National Orchestral Institute and Festival (NOI) and the Music Academy of the West. He has also performed in the Chelsea Music Festival in New York City.His principal teachers include Julie Landsman, Corbin Wagner, Michelle Baker, Janine Gaboury, and Wolfgang Vladar.
SSG Jacob Wiggins french horn SSG Jacob Wiggins Baton Rouge, LA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2020
Alum: University of Houston / Duquesne University
SSG Jacob Wiggins joined the The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" horn section in November of 2020. Originally from Baton Rouge, Wiggins was raised in Houston and graduated from the University of Houston in 2017 with a bachelor's degree in Music Performance. He continued his studies in Pittsburgh at Duquesne University, where he earned an Artist Diploma in 2020. Shortly after arriving at Duquesne, he won the Second Horn position with the Canton (Ohio) Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, Wiggins has worked with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra, the San Antonio Symphony, and the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. In the summers, Wiggins studied at the Aspen Music Festival and School, the Brevard Music Center, and the Texas Music Festival. His principal teachers include Mark Houghton, Zachary Smith, Elizabeth Freimuth, Robert Johnson, and Gavin Reed.
trombone
MSG Samuel Woodhead Principal trombone MSG Samuel Woodhead Northport, ME
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2001
Alum: University of Southern Maine / Yale University / University of Maryland
MSG Sam Woodhead is the solo and principal trombonist and trombone section leader of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Concert Band, a position he has held since 2004, and a member of the Concert Brass. Prior to winning the position in concert band, Woodhead served as a trombonist in the Ceremonial Band of "Pershing's Own". In addition to his duties with the concert band, he has performed with the Brass Quintet, Blues, Orchestra, Chorus, Herald Trumpets, and DownRange, with whom he toured Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan as part of the Sergeant Major of the Army's Hope and Freedom Tour in 2006. He is also chairman of the Eastern Trombone Workshop, founder and director of the Washington Trombone Ensemble, and is currently serving on the board of advisors for the International Trombone Association. Woodhead is in great demand as a freelance musician in the greater D.C. area, performing with groups from the National and Baltimore Symphonies to the Washington Symphonic Brass and musical productions at Signature Theater. He has appeared as soloist with "Pershing's Own" on the tour of California in 2005 and at concerts on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. Woodhead has also presented masterclasses and solo appearances at Boston University's Tanglewood Institute, Bowling Green University, Brown University, and Yale University. His primary teachers were John Swallow, Milton Stevens, and Mark Manduca and has also studied with Matthew Guilford, Craig Mulcahy, and David Taylor.
SFC Adam Mccolley Section Leader trombone SFC Adam Mccolley Tampa, FL
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2009
Alum: Boston University / Manhattan School of Music
SFC Adam McColley joined “Pershing’s Own” in October of 2009. The son of professional musicians in Tampa, FL, he began studying the trombone at the age of ten with his father, Thomas McColley. McColley transferred to the Walnut Hill School for the Arts in Natick, MA for his last year of High School. Staying in the Boston area, he completed a Bachelor of Music degree at Boston University in 2006, getting the opportunity to spend one semester as an exchange student at the Royal College of Music in London. He completed a Master of Music degree at the Manhattan School of Music in New York City in 2008. His teachers include Per Brevig, Scott Hartman, Don Lucas, Brian Raby, and Darren Acosta. McColley was awarded fellowships to attend the Aspen Music Festival, the Texas Music Festival and Austria’s Attergau Orchestral Institute. In addition to the Army Band, his professional experience includes performances with the Rhode Island Philharmonic, the Jacksonville Symphony, and Alarm Will Sound. McColley currently lives in Arlington, VA with his wife, Whitney.
SSG Omar Dejesus trombone SSG Omar Dejesus Palm Bay, FL
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2016
Alum: Florida State University / Yale University
Originally from Palm Bay, Florida, SSG Omar Dejesus graduated from Florida State University in 2014. He won his position with the Ceremonial Band of Pershing’s Own one year after graduating Florida State and while pursuing his Masters Degree at Yale University. Dejesus went on to win the American Trombone Workshop National Solo Competition held by Pershing's Own just months before leaving for Basic Combat Training. He has been a multiple event competitor at the International Trombone Festival. He has also been tasked to be the newest ATW National Solo Competition Coordinator as of November 2017. Dejesus performs with multiple elements within the unit, including the Herald Trumpets and the Army Brass Quintet. His newest position in The US Army Concert Band will start by the end of the 2018. His teachers include John Drew and Scott Hartman.
bass trombone
SSG Kyle Gordon bass trombone SSG Kyle Gordon Harlan, IA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2019
Alum: Drake University / Indiana University Jacobs School of Music (in progress)
SSG Kyle Gordon is the bass trombonist in The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Concert Band. Prior to this position, he was the bass trombonist of the Houston Grand Opera, a position he held for 3 seasons. Kyle received his Master of Music in trombone performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music where he was awarded the Performer’s Certificate recognizing his outstanding work as a solo performer and was the winner of the brass concerto competition. His teachers included M. Dee Stewart, Dr. Graydon McGrannahan, and Jared Rodin. Prior to his studies at Indiana University, Kyle received a bachelor’s degree in K-12 Instrumental and Vocal Music Education from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. He has additional studies in early music and bass sackbut. Kyle has served as a freelance educator and has taught as adjunct faculty at both Drake University and Lonestar Community College. He can be heard on recordings with the U.S. Army Band, as well as Drake University’s Wind Symphony. He is a member of Pi Kappa Lambda, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and was the recipient of the James M. Cox Memorial Scholarship for young music educators.
euphonium
MSG Adam Lessard Section Leader & Principal euphonium MSG Adam Lessard Athens, GA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2007
Alum: Royal Northern College of Music and University of North Texas / University of Georgia
(Video) Live - The Band Plays Broadway - The U.S. Army Concert Band
MSG Adam Lessard hails from Athens, GA and joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in March of 2007. Lessard attended the University of Georgia where he earned his bachelor's degree studying with Dr. David Randolph and David Zerkel; the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, UK, studying with Steven Mead; and the University of North Texas with his masters degree, studying with Dr. Brian Bowman. Lessard won both the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) High School Brass competition and the Falcone International Tuba Euphonium Student Competition in 1998. He placed 2nd in the 2003 MTNA College Brass Competition and 2006 Falcone Artist Competition and was a finalist in the 2006 International Tuba Euphonium Conference Artist Competition. Lessard has also performed with both the Kennedy Center Ballet and the National Symphony Orchestra.
SFC Toby Furr euphonium SFC Toby Furr Dallas, TX
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2013
Alum: University of North Texas
SFC Toby Furr, a native of Dallas, Texas, joined the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band in 2013. Furr is a graduate of the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas. At UNT, he studied with Dr. Brian Bowman and performed with the UNT Wind Symphony as well as several chamber ensembles. Furr was the winner of the Leonard Falcone International Euphonium Competition in the student division in 2010 and in the artist division in 2011. In his spare time, Furr enjoys running, reading, and cheering on Dallas professional sports teams.
tuba
SGM Dave Brown Group Leader tuba SGM Dave Brown Nashville, TN
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 1995
Alum: Tennessee Technological University / Indiana University
SGM David T. Brown currently serves as Brass and Percussion Group Leader and Senior Announcer with The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in Washington D.C. He joined “Pershing’s Own” in 1995 after completing a Master of Music degree at Indiana University where he served as Associate Instructor of Tuba and was awarded the prestigious “Performer’s Certificate.” Additionally, he performs as solo tubist with the Washington Symphonic Brass. He has performed and toured with the National Symphony Orchestra and his playing can be heard on more than 40 recordings with numerous ensembles in the Washington D.C. area including The United States Army Band, the Washington Symphonic Brass and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. He holds a bachelor's degree in Music Education from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville, Tennessee and his teachers include Dan Perantoni, Harvey G. Phillips, and R. Winston Morris.
MSG Thomas Bratten Section Leader & Principal tuba MSG Thomas Bratten Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 1999
Alum: Asbury College / University of Kentucky
MSG Tom Bratten has been a member of The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" since 1999, when he joined The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band and Brass Band. In 2001, he joined the Concert Band where he performs as Second Tuba. He also performs regularly with The U.S. Army Brass Quintet and The U.S. Army Orchestra. He has appeared as soloist with the band on numerous occasions, including the Association of Concert Bands National Convention, the International Tuba Euphonium Conference, and The U.S. Army Band Tuba-Euphonium Conference. He is the 1998 winner of the Leonard Falcone International Tuba Artist Competition, and in 1999 won a position with the Augusta (GA) Symphony before joining the Army. His principal teachers include David Henderson, Dr. Skip Gray, and Fred Mills.
SFC David Kirven tuba SFC David Kirven Paris, TX
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2002
Alum: Baylor University / University of Kentucky
SFC David Kirven, originally from Paris, TX, joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershings Own" in 2002. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Tuba Performance from Baylor University. Kirven later attended the University of Kentucky where he earned a Master of Music degree in Instrumental Conducting in addition to a Master of Music degree in Tuba Performance. Prior to joining The U.S. Army Band "Pershings Own", Kirven served as the Tuba Professor at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX. Since joining the Army Band, he has been featured as a soloist with the band as well as performing as a member of The United States Army Tuba/Euphonium Quartet. Kirven currently serves as the Ensembles Coordinator for The United States Army Band Tuba/Euphonium Workshop.
string bass
SFC Eric Seay string bass SFC Eric Seay Oak Ridge, TN
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2002
Alum: University of Tennessee
SFC Eric Seay joined the U. S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own” in 2002, as bassist with the Concert Band. A multi-instrumentalist, with mastery of many styles, he performs in all manner of ensembles and venues. Seay grew up in Oak Ridge, Tennessee playing tuba and electric bass. He attended Indiana University and the University of Tennessee, where he studied tuba, electric and string bass, earning two bachelor’s degrees in music performance. He also earned the Presser Award at UT for his outstanding musicianship, academics, and leadership.His professional debut occurred at age 13, and some of his more notable engagements before entering “Pershing’s Own” include the Walt Disney World All American College Band and the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus band, with whom he played both bass and tuba. He continues to freelance around the greater DC-Baltimore area.
percussion
SFC Kristopher Keeton Section Leader percussion SFC Kristopher Keeton Russellville, KY
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2013
Alum: Western Kentucky University / Northwestern University / Northwestern University
SFC Kristopher Keeton is a percussionist with The U. S. Army Concert Band. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own,” Keeton held the position of Coordinator of Percussion/Assistant Professor of Music at both the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and at Virginia Commonwealth University. As a performer and soloist, he has appeared at Carnegie Hall, at numerous Percussive Arts Society International Conventions, and in Europe with the virtuoso Swedish percussion ensemble, Global Percussion Network. He is a former percussionist with notable organizations such as the Winston-Salem Symphony, Eastern Philharmonic Orchestra, Civic Orchestra of Chicago, Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, and Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps. As an artist/clinician, Keeton has appeared at notable events throughout the U.S. and Europe, including music festivals and conferences, university appearances, the Percussive Arts Society Days of Percussion, and at the internationally renowned music education conference, Midwest Clinic.Keeton received a Doctorate of Music and a master’s degree in Percussion Performance from the Northwestern University Beinen School of Music. His bachelor’s degree is in Percussion Performance from Western Kentucky University. He has studied with acclaimed percussionists Christopher Norton and Michael Burritt, James Ross of the Chicago Symphony, and drum set artists Chester Thompson and Paul Wertico.
SSG Jacob Harpster percussion SSG Jacob Harpster Topeka, KS
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2016
Alum: Indiana University / University of North Texas
Jake Harpster currently holds the position of Percussionist/Assistant Principal Timpanist for The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in Washington, D.C. As a performer, Harpster is known for his diverse background. In the Broadway idiom, Harpster has presented concerts across the globe. He was the featured marimba soloist and percussionist of the Tony and Emmy award-winning production “BLAST.” With this show, he toured the United States, South Korea, and all forty-seven prefectures in Japan. As a soloist and chamber musician, Harpster has won many awards and international competitions, and has presented concerts throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. An enthusiast of contemporary music, he is actively commissioning and premiering many new works each year. Prior to his position in The Army Band, he served as a percussionist in the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and held the AACA Timpani Fellowship at the Aspen Music Festival. As an educator, Harpster teaches the percussionists of the DCI World Champion, and Fred Sanford Percussion Award-winning Santa Clara Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps. He also teaches percussion at McLean High School in McLean, Virgina, and serves as the Director of Percussion for The Capitol Symphonic Youth Orchestras. Harpster received his Master of Music in Percussion Performance with related field work in Contemporary Music Performance from the University of North Texas. He received his Bachelor of Music in Percussion Performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Upon graduating from IU, Harpster was awarded the prestigious Performer's Certificate.
SSG Timothy Perry percussion SSG Timothy Perry Lakeland, FL
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2017
Alum: Indiana Wesleyan University / Indiana University
SSG Timothy Perry, originally from Lakeland, Florida, has been a percussionist in the United States Army Band, “Pershing’s Own” concert band since 2017. Perry has his undergraduate degree in music education from Indiana Wesleyan University, and his master's degree in music performance from Indiana University. Prior to joining the band, Perry was an active freelance musician and educator. He was especially prominent in the marching arts, marching four years of drum corps with the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps, and instructing and writing for many high schools around the country. Perry held an adjunct professor of percussion position at Southeastern University, where he also was the assistant director for the University’s drumline. Perry performed consistently, as well, serving as the percussionist for the touring brass ensemble, “Tim Zimmerman and the King’s Brass” for three years.
SSG Peter Soroka percussion SSG Peter Soroka Richmond, VA
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2017
Alum: Virginia Commonwealth University / University of North Texas / Florida State University
SSG Peter Soroka is currently a percussionist with The U.S. Army Concert Band, after spending his first three years as a member of the Ceremonial Band. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own,” Soroka was a Graduate Assistant at Florida State University where he taught undergraduate percussion students while working on a Doctor of Music degree. He was awarded performance degrees from the University of North Texas with a secondary specialty in Contemporary Music Performance and Virginia Commonwealth University. He has performed across the U.S. and in Europe. Soroka has had professional appointments with the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra as well as Sinfonia Gulf Coast in Destin, Florida. In 2014, he was an Artist in Residence at Sweet Briar College and served as an adjunct faculty member teaching lessons at the University of Richmond.Soroka continues to be active as a performer and an educator. He also has an increasing passion for audio and video recording.His primary teachers include Dr. John Parks IV, Christopher Deane, Ed Soph, Mark Ford, Paul Rennick, Dr.Peter Martin, Dr. Kristopher Keeton, and his first teacher, Isaac Edgerton.
SSG Jonathan Milke Principal Timpanist percussion SSG Jonathan Milke Wamego, KS
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2020
Alum: Indiana University / Duquesne University / San Francisco Conservatory of Music
SSG Jonathan Milke joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” as the Principal Timpanist in 2020. Prior to joining the band, Milke's professional career included guest appearance’s with the San Francisco Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony, Buffalo Philharmonic, and Chattanooga Symphony.Milke grew up in Wamego, Kansas, and went on to receive his Bachelor of Music degree from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music where he received numerous accolades including IU’s Performers Certificate. After graduation, Milke went on to receive a Master of Music degree from Duquesne University, after which he attended the San Francisco Conservatory of Music for post graduate studies. In addition to his formal education, Milke also attended the National Orchestra Institute and was a fellow at the Aspen Music School.
harp
SFC Nadia Pessoa harp SFC Nadia Pessoa Miami, FL
Group: The U.S. Army Concert Band
Joined the Band: 2006
Alum: Indiana University / University of Michigan
Harpist SFC Nadia Pessoa joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2006. Originally from Miami, Florida, she began playing the harp at age two and a half, and attended Indiana University, where she earned a Bachelor of Music and a Performer Diploma, studying with Susann McDonald. She spent additional time studying in Vienna, Austria, and went on to earn a Master of Music in Performance at the University of Michigan, where she studied with Dr. Lynne Aspnes.Prior to joining The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” Pessoa served as acting principal harpist with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra in 2006, and taught at Louisiana State University. She is the recipient of awards from the National Society of Arts and Letters, the American Harp Society, National Federation of Music Clubs, Downbeat Magazine, and the Fort Collins Symphony. She has participated in numerous national and international festivals, including the National Orchestral Institute, Henry Mancini Institute, Domaine Forget, and the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara. Pessoa performed at the 2002 World Harp Congress in Geneva, and on the 2005 Grammy award-winning recording of William Bolcom's Songs of Innocence and Experience, under the direction of Leonard Slatkin. Locally, she has performed with the Annapolis Symphony, the National Philharmonic, the Choral Arts Society, Arena Stage, The Washington Ballet, and the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra.Pessoa regularly performs with The U.S. Army Orchestra and The U.S. Army Concert Band, as well as for diplomatic and military events. She has appeared as a soloist with the Concert Band on five occasions, including at the National Mall and Lincoln Center.
Providing a musical backdrop for many of the nation’s most notable events, The U.S. Army Concert Band has a worldwide reputation for extraordinary musicianship.
Headquartered in Washington, DC, The U.S. Army Concert Band has performed in concert venues such as Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall, Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and Hollywood Bowl--connecting the Army with the American people. The ensemble participates in ongoing, educational outreach and often appears at national and international music events, including the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, the Music Educators National Convention, the Texas Bandmasters Association, and the American Bandmasters Association.
During the summer months, the Concert Band performs outdoor concerts on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol and at venues throughout the Washington, DC, area. Regular concerts are offered during the cooler months at The United States Army Band’s home, Brucker Hall, located on historic Fort Myer, in Arlington, Virginia.
(Video) The Battle Hymn of the Republic
In an effort to promote international goodwill, the 65-piece, traditional concert band has performed joint concerts with the Soviet Army, the Russian Navy, and the Ukrainian Navy bands, and has appeared in military tattoos in Scotland, Sweden, Holland, Norway, Australia, and Japan. The Concert Band’s 2011 and 2012 goodwill exchange concert tours with the Military Band of the PLA of China, entitled Friendship and Cooperation Through Music, is indicative of the importance these musical ambassadors play in matters of international diplomacy and outreach.
The Soldiers in this ensemble have been trained at some of the most prestigious music conservatories and universities in the country. Displaying their versatility, the Concert Band members perform a variety of styles, ranging from classical to popular. The communicative power of The U.S. Army Concert Band is greatly enhanced when combined with other musical elements of “Pershing’s Own.”
