Air National Guard “Band of the South” Performs in Pack Square Park

For Immediate Release:  May 27, 2011

Contact: Ruth Planey, Pack Square Park Conservancy

828-252-2300    rplaney@packsquarepark.org

Air National Guard “Band of the South” Performs in Pack Square Park

Asheville, NC - Enjoy an evening of patriotic songs, toe tapping marching tunes and some good old rock'n'roll when the Air National Guard “Band of the South” performs in Asheville’s Pack Square Park on Friday, June 10th at 7 P.  The “Band of the South” is the official musical performing arm of the Georgia Air National Guard.  The concert is brought to you by Pack Square Park Conservancy and is free and open to the public - rain or shine.  Bring a picnic or dine on burgers and dogs grilled by the chefs of American Legion Post 526 while you listen to songs that salute America’s varied musical traditions. 

Thanks to an anonymous donor and the help of the sponsors - the Mountain Xpress, Earth Fare, Classic Event Rental and Able Rent-A-Jon, Pack Square Park Conservancy is able to bring concerts like this and other diverse entertainment and programs to the Pack Square Park for the enjoyment of the entire community.

All members of the band are traditional guardsmen, serving one weekend a month, two weeks during the year and at other times when called to duty.  The band strives to musically exemplify the Air Force values of excellence, integrity, and service above self.  Under the direction of Captain Alan B. McConnell, the Band of the South averages fifty performances a year, and performs regularly throughout its primary area of responsibility (Georgia, Alabama, Florida, and the Carolinas) as “Goodwill Ambassadors” for the Georgia Air National Guard.

Throughout the years, the band’s reputation has led to requests to perform all over America, the Azores Islands, Norway, and the Dominican Republic. The band has played for many notable figures, including President Harry S. Truman and the president of Tanzania, 4-star generals, and has serenaded dignitaries from mayors and congressmen, to governors and presidents.

In addition to the concert band, the Air National Guard “Band of the South” contains several ensemble groups, including a ceremonial band, Eagles’ Flight jazz ensemble, a rock/pop ensemble known as Sound Barrier, and more.  Choosing the best music to showcase their instruments and voices, each group zeros in on a facet of America’s musical heritage.

For more information about the concert please call Pack Square Park Conservancy at 828-252-2300.  To learn more about Pack Square Park Conservancy please visit www.packsquarepark.org.

For photos visit the band’s website:  http://www.bandofthesouth.ang.af.mil/photos/media_view.asp?id=450747.