Air Force Band to Bring Holiday Cheer to Sanford
- December 6th 2024
- Limelight
The U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band is celebrating the season in Sanford
Photo Credit: Air Force Bands website
By Brian Boisvert
The Sanford Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is set to host a spectacular holiday performance by the United States Air Force Heritage of America Band on Saturday, December 14, at 7:00 PM. This free concert, titled “A Holiday Salute,” promises to be a memorable evening of patriotism and community spirit.
The U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band, known for its exceptional musicianship and diverse repertoire, will be making its debut appearance at SPAC. Brett Williams, Artistic & Managing Director of SPAC, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event: “It’s truly an honor to be selected for this performance, and it reflects the appreciation they have for both our state-of-the-art facility and our welcoming community. This will be a memorable evening filled with music, patriotism, and connection, and we can’t wait to share this experience with the people of Sanford and beyond.”
The journey to bring this prestigious military band to Sanford has been a long one. Williams revealed that he had been lobbying for military bands to come to SPAC for over five years. “The military bands are difficult to book because they choose the venue, not the other way around,” he explained. “I would meet with them in NYC when I go to my booking conference every year.” The breakthrough came after the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus performed at SPAC in April, paving the way for other branches to consider the venue.
In addition to the main event on Saturday, the band has a special performance scheduled the day before for students during school. This show will feature “Full Spectrum,” a smaller rock ensemble comprised of members from the larger band. Williams emphasized the importance of giving students exposure to national touring performances: “I was excited they had availability on Friday to do a special performance for our students.”
The U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band, based at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia, is one of several premier musical organizations of the U.S. Air Force. The band’s mission extends beyond entertainment, serving as a crucial tool for building relationships between the Air Force and local communities. Through their performances, they aim to honor veterans, inspire patriotism, and enhance the public’s understanding of the Air Force’s role in national defense.
While tickets for this event at 100 Alumni Boulevard are technically sold out, Williams encourages those without reserved tickets to try their luck at the venue. “At 6:45 PM, guests in the standby line will be invited to take any unoccupied seats,” he explained. Williams noted that there will likely be a couple hundred unoccupied seats available, as many ticket holders often reserve more seats than they use.
The ticketing process for these free military shows can be complex, as the government cannot charge for the performances. All reserved seats are general admission, with no assigned seating. To ensure maximum attendance, ticket holders are advised to be in their seats by 6:45 PM for the 7:00 PM show.
The U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band’s performance at the Sanford Performing Arts Center is shaping up to be one of the highlights of the holiday season in Maine. It’s an opportunity for residents of Sanford and surrounding areas to come together, enjoy world-class music, and show their appreciation for the men and women of the U.S. Air Force. With its blend of musical excellence, patriotic spirit, and community engagement, this “Holiday Salute” is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
