Bands building bonds through brass

by Airman Dymekre Allen
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

2/19/2014 - Pont-A-Mousson, France -- The U.S. Air Force in Europe and Air Forces Africa Band along with the Luxemburg Military Brass players came together to conduct five concerts in five days across Europe.

The concerts were put together by members of both militaries to build camaraderie and friendly relations amongst NATO members and other European allies.

"Building international relations with our NATO partners through music is a great experience," said Senior Airman Will McCaray, USAFE-AFAFRICA Band regional band journeyman. "We travel all over representing our nations, its key that we show humility among nations."

The USAFE-AFAFRICA Brass Band is a large symphonic ensemble comprised of 11 brass players, two percussionists and one vocalist from the USAFE-AFAFRICA Band at Ramstein.

The bands bring the military tradition of brass and percussion to a wide variety of different countries and cultural backgrounds without losing the understanding.

"It's a universal language," said Master Sgt. Steven Schaughency, USAFE-AFAFRICA Band director of special projects and productions. "When we are playing there is no language barrier because we are all reading the same thing. We all understand it and that allows us to play perfectly together."

In a large concert hall or an outdoor festival, the bands showcase a diverse repertoire of traditional classical artistry, well-known jazz, as well as other favorites reflecting the group's American and Luxembourgers roots.

For most of the members it is an honor to work with musicians from around the world because it allows them to grow as musicians as well as a team.

"In the short time we've spent together, we have already created a bond amongst one another," Schaughency said. "The uniform is the only thing that sets us apart, if we all wore white shirts and blue jeans you'd never know we are from two different countries."

The two bands may have differences but according to both sides they want the same outcome.

"We both want to create art that brings people together," said Monique Bernotte Luxemburg Military Brass Band member. "There's no segregation, no division in music, there is only the sound of joint instruments playing in harmony for all."

The bands use the international language of music to foster cultural relations and promote international diplomacy wherever they perform.