A Message from the Commanding Officer

On behalf of the men and women of The United States Navy Band, I would like to wish you a sincere “Happy New Year!” This year begins with many wonderful opportunities for you to come out and hear “The World’s Finest.” Our 34th annual International Saxophone Symposium will be held at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. on January 7th and 8th. What started as a one room event held in the Sail Loft at the historic Washington Navy Yard, the Symposium now sprawls between several buildings and is one of the largest events of its kind in the world.

The Symposium was the brainchild of Navy Band alumnus, Master Chief Musician Dale Underwood, who served with distinction as saxophone soloist for thirty years. Dale is internationally recognized as one of the world’s foremost classical saxophonists and continues to be a highly sought-after instructor, lecturer and performer. Currently, he is teaching at the University of Miami, Frost School of Music. Dale and his wife attend the Symposium every year. Please seek them out and thank him for starting this event 34 years ago.

The Concert Band will cap off the first day of the Symposium with an evening concert on Friday, January 7th at 8 p.m. that features four guest soloists, Barry Cockcroft, Chien-Kwan Lin, Branford Marsalis and Senior Chief Musician Timothy Roberts. The Commodores Jazz Ensemble will end the Symposium on
Saturday January 8th with a concert at 8 p.m., also featuring Branford Marsalis. We are excited to bring you what may be the best Symposium ever and hope you will make plans to join us.