The U. S. Air Force jazz Band will perform at the Pigeon Forge Community Center on Friday, February 6.

PIGEON FORGE, TN – The 18-piece Shades of Blue Jazz Ensemble from the U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America will perform a free concert at the Pigeon Forge Community Center on Friday, February 6 at 7 p.m.

The ensemble – which has performed for heads of state and audiences across the nation – has a local connection. Master Sgt. Jerry Kelly, a guitarist, is from Knoxville.

The group has a diverse repertoire of traditional swing, bebop, modern jazz, vocal selections and the music of America. Concert programs vary and include innovative, contemporary jazz works, as well as the classic sounds of Count Basie and Glenn Miller.

Several of the band’s members are also gifted writers and arrangers, and their compositions are often featured. The band is stationed at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.

“This will be a great evening of entertainment from some of the best musicians in uniform. We invite everyone to experience this aspect of our nation’s military,” said Capt. Jason Plosch, commander of the Air Force Band of Mid-America.

The Pigeon Forge Community Center is at 170 Community Drive. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. No tickets are required for admission.