Special to The Hays Daily News

The United States Air Force Heartland of America Band is proud to present Brass in Blue, a pioneering symphonic brass ensemble. Bringing the military tradition of brass and percussion to the concert stage with the unique addition of a vocalist, Brass in Blue presents programs that are exhilarating and intimate.

Representing more than 325,000 Air Force professionals, Brass in Blue showcases the service's excellence and precision in every performance. Comprised of 10 brass players, a percussionist and a vocalist, the ensemble maintains a rigorous performance schedule presenting a diverse repertoire featuring orchestral transcriptions, patriotic favorites, jazz standards, new compositions and distinctive arrangements.

Since its debut in February 2007, Brass in Blue has enjoyed tremendous success and earned a reputation as a premier brass ensemble in the Midwest. The group twice has performed at the Grand Teton Music Festival in Jackson, Wyo., and has been featured at the Organ Vesper Series in Omaha, Neb. In October 2008, Brass in Blue presented "Slides Across the Heartland," which featured world-renowned trombone soloist Joseph Alessi and 76 trombonists performing Meredith Willson's "76 Trombones" to much acclaim from military and civic leaders.

Brass in Blue is committed to music education and encouraging students in their musical endeavors. The ensemble's unique approaches to rehearsals, programming and team-building have been shared with students and professionals across the United States. Brass in Blue always stresses the group is greater than the sum of its parts.

Following the October 2008 performance with Brass in Blue, Alessi, principal trombonist of the New York Philharmonic, said, "It was the greatest pleasure and honor to work with the USAF Brass in Blue. They are a 'first-class' brass ensemble with superb musicians and most of all, wonderful individuals. It was one of the highlights of my life to spend time with them and make music together. This is a group you must see and hear."

Brass in Blue shines in any setting. Whether performing in a concert hall, an educational venue or in support of a military function, their innovative approach allows them to perform both as a large symphonic group and an intimate chamber ensemble. Each time Brass in Blue steps on the stage, they create a shared experience with their audiences they characterize as "once heard, never forgotten."

The group will perform at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State University campus. Free tickets will be available until 5 p.m. Wednesday at The Hays Daily News, 507 Main, or James Motor Co., 108 E. 13th.