In honor of Veterans Day, the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way in Elgin, will host a free performance by The Falconaires, a division of the U.S. Air Force Academy Band, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11.

The event is free, however, tickets are required.

As one of the Air Force's two premier jazz ensembles, the Falconaires have brought the sounds of big band jazz to national audiences for more than 50 years. This group of 18 full-time jazz musicians specializes in the best of past, present and future by performing traditional and contemporary big band jazz.

To this mix, "Falcs" members add their own compositions and fresh orchestrations.

Falconaires members are some of the most sought-after clinicians and performers in America. The Air Force Academy Bands' Falconaires play a major role in cultivating our national heritage through its only indigenous musical genre, jazz.

To reserve free tickets, call (847) 931-5900. For details about the concert, visit hemmens.org. For details about the Falconaires, visit www.usaf academyband.af.mil.