U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors to Perform March 9

The internationally acclaimed Jazz Ambassadors of Washington, DC will continue its long tradition of presenting free public performances when they perform at Bellevue College this March.  

The Jazz Ambassadors’ concert in Bellevue is presented by Jim Sisko of Bellevue College’s Music department and will be held at 7 PM on Monday, March 9 in Room 301 of the U Building on Bellevue College’s campus. It is free and open to the public. 

“The U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors represent the highest level of musicianship and a living history of America’s jazz tradition,” Sisko said. “Having them perform at our college allows students to see what’s possible through dedication, collaboration, and service, while honoring jazz as an art form that continues to evolve and inspire.” 

The Jazz Ambassadors is the official touring big band of the United States Army. Formed in 1969, this 19-member ensemble has received great acclaim at home and abroad performing America’s greatest original art form, jazz. The ensemble has a direct connection to Bellevue College as well; its lead alto saxophonist Sergeant Major Andrew Layton is a Bellevue College alum.  

Concerts by the Jazz Ambassadors are programmed to entertain all types of audiences. The band’s diverse repertoire includes big band swing, bebop, Latin, contemporary jazz, standards, popular tunes, traditional New Orleans jazz, vocals, and patriotic selections, many of which are written or arranged by members of the Jazz Ambassadors.  

The Jazz Ambassadors has appeared in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Japan, India, and throughout Europe. Recent notable performances include concerts at the Toronto Jazz Festival, the Richmond Jazz Festival at Maymont, the Kennedy Center Honors, the Jazz Education Network Conference, and an appearance on the Colbert Report.  

Gordon Goodwin, Bobby Shew, Ernie Watts, and the Dave Brubeck All-Star Quintet are just a few of the outstanding jazz artists who have shared the stage with the Jazz Ambassadors. The band has been featured in joint concerts with Marvin Hamlisch and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the San Diego Symphony Orchestra, the Seattle Symphony Pops, the Colorado Pops Orchestra, and the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall. The band’s rigorous touring schedule and reputation for excellence has earned it the title “America’s Big Band.”  

Secure your free tickets to the jazz performance at Bellevue College. Visitors may park in parking lots 4, 6, 1A, and 3A. View campus parking map. For additional information about the Jazz Ambassadors, contact The United States Army Field Band by phone at (301) 677-6586, or visit armyfieldband.com/calendar.