Air Force Jazz Ensemble to Perform Free Concert in Pigeon Forge

The 18-piece Shades of Blue Jazz Ensemble from the U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America will perform a free concert at the Pigeon Forge Community Center on Friday, Feb. 6, 2015 at 7 p.m.

The ensemble – which has performed for heads of state and audiences across the nation – has a local connection. Master Sgt. Jerry Kelly, a guitarist, is from Knoxville.

The group has a diverse repertoire of traditional swing, bebop, modern jazz, vocal selections and the music of America. Concert programs vary and include innovative, contemporary jazz works, as well as the classic sounds of Count Basie and Glenn Miller.

Several of the band’s members are also gifted writers and arrangers, and their compositions are often featured. The band is stationed at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.

Shades of Blue Jazz Ensemble from the U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America to play a free concert in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

“This will be a great evening of entertainment from some of the best musicians in uniform,” said Capt. Jason Plosch, commander of the Air Force Band of Mid-America. “We invite everyone to experience this aspect of our nation’s military.”

The Pigeon Forge Community Center is located at 170 Community Dr. in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. The performance is at 7 p.m., and doors open at 6:30 p.m. No tickets are required for admission.