Music has the fierce capacity to bring people together, both in fellowship and the appreciation of the arts. This was clearly seen Friday night in Lightsey Chapel, when more than 1,500 individuals from the campus and community gathered to enjoy the musical talent of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band.
Before “The President’s Own” even made a sound, they made a majestic impact visually as they filed onto the stage. The multitude of uniformed, red-clad musicians foreshadowed the warm, polished tones yet to come.
After the director of the Marine Band, Colonel Michael J. Colburn, had taken his place, the band commenced with a piece titled “The Rifle Regiment” by John Philip Sousa. Sousa was the well-respected, former director of the Marine Band from 1880-92, and the Band paid homage to his legacy by playing one of his original compositions.
“The President’s Own” highlighted many diverse pieces throughout the evening, many of which had been transcribed by former or current members. The Marine Band did not retreat from showcasing the immense talent within the group.
SSgt Jonathan Bisesi, xylophone soloist, had the audience hypnotized as he nimbly and effortlessly played “Zegeunerweisen,” Opus 20 by Pablo de Sarasate. Additionally, the charismatic concert moderator, SSgt Sara Dell’Omo, took the audience on a “Sentimental Journey” as she crooned a medley of popular hits from the World War II era.
The evening was crowned with a rousing, big band rendition of “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” and finally stirring tribute to the Armed Forces of the United States of America. As the night drew to a close, the Marine Band was honored with thunderous applause and a standing ovation.
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