Celebrate Veterans Day with the sounds of American jazz as the U.S. Navy Band Commodores jazz ensemble take over airwaves Wednesday, Nov. 11, on AZPM Jazz 89.1 HD-2. The special performance, recorded in the Maltz Performance Studio at the Paul and Alice Baker Center for Public Media, will air at 8 a.m., noon and 6 p.m.
The recording brings the Navy’s premier jazz ensemble to AZPM audiences for a Veterans Day celebration honoring those who have served through one of America's most enduring musical traditions.
The featured ensemble includes:
- Chief Musician Kevin McDonald, drums
- Musician 1st Class William Ledbetter, bass
- Musician 1st Class Justin Mendez, saxophone
- Musician 1st Class Ryan Hanseler, piano
Formed in 1969, the 19-member U.S. Navy Band Commodores have performed for the Navy and the nation for more than 50 years. Known for their dynamic big band jazz performances, the ensemble celebrates the music of jazz legends including Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Thad Jones, alongside original compositions by members of the band.
The Commodores' mission includes public concerts, national tours, jazz education and performances honoring veterans and supporting the Navy's ceremonial and diplomatic engagements.
The session at the Maltz Performance Studio is part of the ensemble's nine-day Southwest tour. The group also performed to two free public concerts Monday, Nov. 9, at The Century Room in downtown Tucson.
Tune in or stream this Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day, at 8 a.m., noon or 6 p.m. on AZPM Jazz 89.1 HD-2. For more information about the U.S. Navy Band Commodores and their tour, visit navyband.navy.mil/events.
