Air Force Jazz Band comes to Monticello Schools

March 2009

When Monticello Schools’ Director of Music Dr. Kevin Dirth heard that the U.S. Air Force’s Band of Liberty Jazz Band (BOL) was coming to the area he wanted to ensure that Sullivan County and Monticello Schools were included in the plan. After numerous phone calls and e-mails, he was able to book the professional 20-member band to play a free concert at the school on March 3. As an added bonus, some of the BOL members volunteered to give a workshop for the district’s middle and high school jazz ensemble students the following day.

“This is a rare treat for the kids,” said Dirth. “This is the first time we know of that this band has ever come to Sullivan County and the first time our students have had the opportunity to work with these professional musicians.”

BOL is based outside of Boston, Massachusetts at the Hanscom Air Force Base and BOL members are active duty Air Force soldiers, who happen to be professional musicians. According to BOL saxophone player Blair Raker, he had to audition to get into the service. Now, he loves what he does so much the he’s recently decided to extend his four year tour of duty to a career commitment.

“It’s a win-win situation,” said Raker. “I get to do what I love and get all the benefits of being in the military and serving our country.” For more information about BOL, visit www.bandofliberty.af.mil.

Photos: (top) Monticello High School Jazz Ensemble members were thrilled to get the chance to work with the BOL musicians. (bottom) from left, BOL trombonists Mike Mannella and Blair Raker enjoy giving these music workshops to students. “This is just one of the things we do to connect with our regional community,” explained Raker. “We also travel one week every month to share our music with various communities.” As part of their military duties, BOL members travel to areas in New England, New York and New Jersey giving free concert performances and workshops.