The United States Air Force Academy Band’s Falconaires jazz ensemble from Colorado Springs, Colo., will perform a free concert at the Barton Community College Fine and Performing Arts Auditorium in Great Bend. The performance is set for 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12. 

The evening will feature an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary jazz repertoire that celebrates our national heritage. The concert is free and open to the public, and the tickets are available at the Great Bend Tribune office, 2012 Forest Avenue, at the BCC Fine and Performing Arts office or online at eventbrite.com.

Under the command of Lt. Col. Daniel L. Price, it is one of nine performing ensembles within the Academy Band. The Falconaires is comprised of 18 professional active-duty airman musicians. 

“A driving force in the jazz world, the Falconaires play a major role in cultivating our national heritage through America’s only indigenous musical genre-jazz,” Price said. “The Falconaires support the Academy Band’s mission to advance the United States Air Force Academy and the Global Air Force Missions by providing professional music products and services for official military, recruiting, and community relations events worldwide.For over 60 years, the Academy Band has used the power of music to honor our nation’s heroes, inspire Air Force personnel and the nation they serve, produce innovative musical programs and products, and communicate Air Force excellence to millions around the world.

“It is also our distinct privilege to support our veterans and all men and women currently serving around the globe, protecting the freedoms we all enjoy,” Price said. “It is because of these selfless  Americans that we are able to share the music and remarkable talents of the Falconaires.”