On Wednesday, March 20, 2024, the “Academy Winds” will be performing at Washburn Rural High School from 8:45 to 9:30 Am.

This group is an ensemble within the United States Air Force Academy Band, USAFAB. This is a United States military band based out of Peterson Space Force Base near Colorado Springs, Colorado. 

The members of the “Academy Winds” include Master Sergeant Monica Ding, who is the Section Chief of Resources and Oboe, Technical Sergeant Christopher Jackson, bassoon player, Technical Sergeant Wonpyo Lee, flute player, Master Sergeant Robert Vitale, clarinet player, and finally, Master Sergeant Gerald Welker, Jr., Section Chief of Publicity and French Horn.

The “Academy Winds” will be performing for band students and AF JROTC students in the band room. This is a great way to expose students to professional bands, especially some AFJROTC who are in both programs.

Mr. Raines recommends anyone who is free during the time period to come watch them play. They are a spectacular ensemble and are worth taking time to watch. This is overall a great experience for everyone within the school.