Wheaton band concert celebrates Air Force blue

Three members of the United States Air Force bands join the Wheaton Municipal Band for its "Concert in Blue" at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 21, in Memorial Park, 208 W. Union Ave., Wheaton.

The band welcomes Col. Larry H. Lang to conduct and soloists Colby Fahrenbacher, principal tuba with the United States Air Force Heritage of America Band at Langley, and Master Sgt. Jeremy P. Koch, principal alto saxophonist with the United States Air Force Band, Washington, D.C.

Featuring the dress blues of the Air Force, Lang exudes patriotism in his presence and his music selections. Part of the objectives of the Air Force bands is to "inspire patriotism … and foster a deep appreciation of the rich history and legacy of the Air Force."

The Wheaton Municipal Band program includes "Those Magnificent Airmen," arranged by Larry MacTaggart; "Burst of Blue March" by Robert Thurston; and the favorite "Armed Services Medley."

Fahrenbacher headed up the band's tuba section for more than six seasons. He soloed with the band in 2011 when he said, "Music allows me to take something I love and share it with those around me. I enjoy making people happy with my music."

Originally from Chicago, Koch began his career in the Air Force in 1998. He plays "Fantasia for Alto Saxophone and Band" by Claude T. Smith.

The concert is free. Audience members are invited to bring a lawn chair, a picnic and enjoy the music. For information, visit wheatonmunicipalband.org.