 The 34-member band, stationed at Camp Lincoln in Springfield, boasts
some of the area's finest professional and amateur musicians. The
members of the 144th Army Band come from all walks of life but share
a common love for the performance of music. Many of the members are
current or former high school band directors, college music majors
and professional musicians. The Old State Capitol Chorale, the
site's volunteer choir, will also perform during the concert.
U.S.
Army bands provide music throughout the full spectrum of military
operations, instill in our soldiers the will to fight and win,
foster the support of our citizens, and promote our national
interests at home and abroad. Many American historic events occurred
with the support of a military musical unit. Prior to the signing of
the Declaration of Independence, colonial soldiers marched to the
music of fifes and drums. During the Civil War, military leaders on
both sides relied on military musicians to entertain troops,
position troops in battle and stir the troops on to victory.
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 Army bands have a brilliant history. Bands such as those with the
82nd Airborne Division, 101st Airborne and the 1st Infantry Division
received decorations for their performance in combat. Other bands
have entertained at official functions, entertained troops and
traveled throughout the world aiding public relations efforts inside
and outside of the United States.
The
Old State Capitol State Historic Site, administered by the
Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, hosted Abraham Lincoln,
Stephen A. Douglas, Ulysses S. Grant and other famous Illinoisans as
they performed official duties for the state. The building is open
Wednesday through Saturday for free public tours.
[Text from file received from
the Illinois Historic
Preservation Agency] |
