US Army Blues

Formed in 1972, The Army Blues carries on a tradition begun by the Army Dance Band which entertained soldiers and civilians in the battle zone during World War II. As the official jazz band of “Pershing’s Own,” and one of the few remaining professional groups of its kind, the Blues’ present-day mission is to promote America’s art form: jazz.

The Blues pay tribute to the big bands of yesterday by performing the music made popular by such greats as Ellington, Basie, Miller and Herman. At the same time, The Army Blues perform their own versions of the latest and most innovative sounds of contemporary composers. The band is also making its own mark on the future of jazz by performing original works by U.S. Army Band staff arrangers and composers plus those by members of the Army Blues themselves.

The Blues have performed at international jazz festivals throughout the world, including the Montreux Jazz Festival in Montreux, Switzerland in July 1991. The 18-piece ensemble has shared the stage with such jazz greats as Stanley Turrentine, Louis Bellson and Dave Brubeck, in addition to backing up show business headliners Bob Hope, Wayne Newton and Alabama.

The Blues have performed at the White House and regularly entertain at military and State Department functions and events. In support of the Army recruiting effort, the Army Blues present frequent concerts at schools throughout the country. Through clinic presentations, the musicians share their knowledge and experience with students in a positive interaction that is both educational and mutually gratifying.

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