The Fort Meade, Maryland-based ensemble is part of the Army Field Band, known as "The Musical Ambassadors of the Army." Its visit gave local residents an opportunity to experience the musicians' artistry close to home.
The Army Field Band was established in 1946 by Lt. Gen. Jacob L. Devers, then commanding general of Army Ground Forces, and was first known as the Army Ground Forces Band. It took its current name in April 1950. Today it tours about 100 days a year.
The Jazz Ambassadors trace their roots to the early 1960s, when the Field Band began forming a permanent big band. In 1969, the group then known as the Studio Band became a full performing component, and it was later renamed the Jazz Ambassadors. Now billed as "America's Big Band," the 19-member ensemble plays classic big band standards, patriotic tunes, contemporary jazz and original works by its own members.
The Jazz Ambassadors have performed in all 50 states and in Canada, Mexico, Europe, Japan and India. They have joined the Boston Pops and the National Symphony Orchestra and have appeared at jazz festivals in Montreux, Newport and Toronto. Many of their arrangements are available to schools through a jazz education initiative called Perspectives.
The Livingston appearance brought together military musical tradition and a community setting, making a live big band performance accessible to residents at no admission charge.