West Point Band announces winter concert series

WEST POINT — The West Point Band announces a Winter Concert Series showcasing four of its ensembles in a thoughtful exploration of our country’s musical heritage.
The West Point Concert Band, the Hellcats field music group, Quintette 7 and the Benny Havens Band will present performances throughout New York and New Jersey featuring works by American icons from John Philip Sousa to Carrie Underwood. Series highlights include masterpieces for band, a celebration of African American History Month, country jams, and of course, a march or two.
As always, these concerts are free and open to all. No tickets are required.
The local schedule includes:• Saturday, Jan. 20, 2 p.m., Eisenhower Hall Theatre, West Point (snow date Sunday, Jan. 21, 2 p.m.)
The Concert Band returns to Eisenhower Hall Theatre for “Rhapsody in Blue,” George Gershwin’s quintessentially American piano concerto played by the band’s own Sgt. 1st Class Yalin Chi, and Percy Grainger’s masterpiece for wind band, “Lincolnshire Posy.”
• Saturday, Feb. 24, 2 p.m., Eisenhower Hall Theatre, West Point (snow date Sunday, Feb. 25, 2 p.m.)
The Concert Band gives another nod to American legend Leonard Bernstein’s 100th year with a concert entitled “On the Waterfront,” featuring his music from the 1954 film starring Marlon Brando. This performance will also pay homage to the band’s home on the Hudson with a performance of Darius Milhaud’s “West Point Suite,” written in honor of the Academy.
• Tuesday, Feb. 27, 7 p.m., Eisenhower Hall Ballroom, West Point (snow date Wednesday, Feb. 28, 7 p.m.)
In recognition of African American History Month, the Benny Havens Band presents “Diaspora,” a performance and lecture highlighting the experiences of African Americans in the New World, featuring special guest, jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles.
• Tuesday, March 20, 7 p.m., Washingtonville High School Auditorium, Washingtonville
Jazz ensemble Quintette 7 shares the stage with the Washingtonville High School Band in a special side-by-side performance.
Established in 1817, the West Point Band is the Army’s oldest musical organization and continues to provide world-class music to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets and to serve as ambassadors of the United States Military Academy and the Army to local, national, and international communities.
For concert information, cancellations, and updates, call 845-938-2617 or visit www.westpointband.com.