Air Force Big Band to Play at Moody

Though it may not be widely know, the United States Air Force Academy has a jazz band. The group, called The Falconaires, will be playing tonight at 7:30 in the Moody Music Hall.

The ensemble, which is based out of Colorado Springs, Colo., plays everything from traditional to contemporary jazz in a big band setting. The band is made up of 17 full-time musicians and Master Sergeant Christopher M. Gaona, the group's musical director and group leader.

The ensemble is currently on a small tour throughout the Southeast. After their performance in Moody, the ensemble will visit the military institutes in Marion, Mobile, and Pensacola, Fla.

Technical Sergeant Ricky Sweum, who plays tenor saxophone in the band and acts as the tour manager for the band, said the ensemble is used to playing tours like this as well as larger tours, which go year round.

"The Falconaires tour all over the country, playing everything from jazz festivals to public concerts," Sweum said.

Sweum said even though a round-the-country tour can be grueling at times, he is hoping that an international tour can be in the works one day.

"This idea is very new and has not been done with the Falconaires yet," Sweum said. "However, other ensembles have gotten out there to play for the troops."

The Middle East is one specific region to which the Air Force Academy has sent different ensembles. Sweum made special note of the gratitude these people in the service have expressed towards these bands.

"They are always excited about the different bands that come in because they are normally in a protected status," Sweum said. "When it comes down to it, it's all about supporting all patriotic people out there."

Sweum made specific note that all the musicians in the ensemble work directly for the Academy, which he referred to as "one of the finest institutions in the country."

"Being musicians are our primary duty," Sweum said. "However, within our organization, we have collateral duty [different jobs] which helps support the band."

Not only are these musicians doing what they love to do, but they are also promoting the Academy and what it can do for the individual.

"We're trying to help people be aware of the opportunities that the Air Force has for them," Sweum said. "It is one of the best educations you can get."