The United States Army's touring show band, the Volunteers, will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 26, in Claflin University's Ministers' Hall.

Since its inception in 1981, the Volunteers, a part of the United States Army Field Band, has performed in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Central America and Europe. The band seamlessly mixes jazz, '50's favorites and Motown classics at family-oriented shows while incorporating rock, country and pop hits into its concerts for its younger audience members. The six-piece ensemble regularly includes performances for senior citizens, young children and wounded soldiers in their tours.

The group's "foot-stomping, heart-racing music" has won accolades during performances for Mardi Gras, the Indianapolis 500, Major League Baseball games and National Rodeo Finals.

The Volunteers has been presented the Army Community Relations Award of Excellence -- the highest award given by the Department of the Army for support to Army community relations.

The mission of the United States Army Field Band is to "carry into the grassroots of our country the story of our magnificent Army." It is the Army's official touring musical organization and comprised of four separate performing components: the Concert Band, the Soldiers' Chorus, the Jazz Ambassadors and the Volunteers. Each component tours annually throughout the United States and travels abroad as directed by the secretary of the Army. In approximately 400 touring days in 2005, the Field Band's components appeared before live audiences totaling over 1.3 million people and broadcasts to more than 50 million people.

The event is free and open to the public, but tickets are recommended. Sponsors are The Times and Democrat and Claflin University. For more information or tickets, call Carla Hall at 803-533-5528.

You must be logged in to comment.