When you mention the United States Air Force (USAF), common imagery arises: brave, uniformed souls risking their lives for our protection, and giant, metal planes hurtling through the air. But orchestra music and choirs? Not the first impression the USAF brings to mind.
Unbeknownst to many, the USAF has its very own band. Composed of eleven active-duty bands and five Air National Guard bands, the collective boasts only the finest serving musicians. Upon its formation in 1941, it was initially composed of only five members— but by the end of the next year, they’d added 95 m0re.
Led by Alf Heiberg, the group’s very first commander, the Air Force band traveled the country, performing at athletic events and fairs. Eventually, Heiberg designed a logo by superimposing a lyre over pilot wings— ultimately creating a symbol which has remained their emblem ever since.
Based at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington D.C., the band lists a few humble goals. According to their mission statement, they hope to honor those who have served, inspire American citizens to heightened patriotism, and positively impact the global community —aspirations accomplished during this surprise event.
Back in 2012, the band decided to surprise a few unexpecting museum patrons with a musical flash mob.
It was right on the verge of the holidays, and they wanted to do something to spread the holiday cheer. Gathering at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum on December 13, they put the plan into action.
In the video, you see museum guests fluttering around the Milestones of Flight gallery. Already seated and ready, a uniformed soldier begins to play the cello. As the notes emerge from his instrument, patrons stop to admire the scene. Soon, however, other soldiers start lining up beside him.
The soldiers wear the Air Force’s matching uniforms, adding their own instruments to the sound. Cellos, flute, violins, and saxophones all come together, delivering a rendition of Bach’s ‘Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring’, later segueing into ‘Joy to the World’.
Led by conductor Colonel Larry Lang, what began as a one-man performance swells into a 120-person rendition— complete with a choir and all!
As you can imagine, the patrons are absolutely mesmerized by the scene before them. Old and young alike take in the magic before them, expressing their pleasure with delighted smiles.
The entire performance is incredible.
Lasting only six minutes total, the experience takes the patrons by storm. They’ve likely never experienced anything like it, and they’re not going to forget it soon. Luckily, someone managed to record the entirety of the event, uploading it to YouTube, where it has since gone viral.
“Bravo, Air Force Band! Thank you for your service to our country and for your beautiful music.”
“This made my heart soar! WOW! I love at the very end, the MASSIVE ‘second’ crescendo surprised me and was just glorious.”
“This gave me the chills. In a good way.”
Watch the unforgettable moment below!
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
