UFPA offers free performance of U.S. Marine Band

September 21, 2011

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — University of Florida Performing Arts will host a free performance by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Phillips Center for Performing Arts.

The Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional music organization. Founded in 1798, the band has performed for every U.S. president since John Adams.

“All of the military bands that perform in the Phillips Center receive enthusiastic and warm responses from our audience – their popularity is truly significant within the Alachua County community,” UFPA director Michael Blachly said. “That having been said, none are more highly regarded and better acknowledged than ‘The President’s Own’ United States Marine Band. They truly stand out as a stellar ensemble among their peers.”

The primary mission of the Marine Band is unique – to provide music for the president of the United States and the Commandant of the United States Marine Corps.

Marine Band musicians appear at the White House more than 300 times each year for a variety of events. These performances range from a solo harpist or chamber orchestra to a dance band or full concert band. The band also participates in more than 500 public and official performances annually.

Col. Michael J. Colburn will serve as director and has been with the Marine Band for 20 years.

Tickets may be reserved (limit four per request) by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: University of Florida Performing Arts, P.O. Box 112750, Gainesville, FL 32611-2750.

Visit www.performingarts.ufl.edu for more information.