Richard Barnes

The US Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus was established in 1946 to serve as the Musical Ambassadors of the Army. Based at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, the ensemble was originally formed to connect the Army with the American public through music following World War II. The Field Band and its accompanying Soldiers’ Chorus have toured extensively, performing in all 50 states and over 30 countries, supporting both ceremonial occasions and public outreach. Their mission is to foster the support of the American people for their Army while preserving and showcasing the Army’s rich musical traditions.

The Armed Forces School of Music Army Element is a specialized unit within the United States Army, dedicated to training Army musicians for service in military bands. Established in 1951 at the Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek in Virginia, the School of Music is a joint-service institution, training members of the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. The Army Element provides instruction in music theory, instrumental performance, and military ceremonial duties, ensuring soldiers are prepared for a variety of musical and official functions. Over the decades, graduates have supported Army ceremonies, public events, and troop morale both at home and overseas.