The U.S. Army Orchestra

The U.S. Army Orchestra Photo

The U.S. Army Orchestra is the only ensemble of its kind in the U.S. Army and serves as one of the premier combination-elements of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own.” A large ensemble of world-class musicians, its roster incorporates members of The U.S. Army Strings and The U.S. Army Concert Band.

The Army Orchestra has performed in such notable venues as Trinity Church on Wall Street, New York City; Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, Alexandria, Virginia; Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at Maryland, College Park, Maryland; Vienna Presbyterian Church, Vienna, Virginia; and Brucker Hall—headquarters of The U.S. Army Band—on Fort Myer in Virginia.

On Friday, September 14, 2001, The U.S. Army Orchestra performed for the National Day of Prayer and Remembrance at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC. In May 2004, the ensemble was requested to participate in the dedication of the National World War II Memorial. Annually, the Army Orchestra travels with other active-duty soldiers from the U.S. Military District of Washington to communities around the country to bring “Spirit of America”—a performance that highlights history of military service in America through music and live reenactment. This production has taken the Army Orchestra across the country to Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, Ohio, and New Hampshire, and draws thousands of audience members to each show.

During the summer season, The U.S. Army Orchestra can be heard on the steps of the U.S. Capitol and in local area indoor venues. In 2006, The U.S. Army Orchestra organized a Young Artist Competition for aspiring high-school aged musicians in the Washington, DC, metro area. The winner and finalists of this competition are honored at a major area concert hall and are invited to perform with the ensemble at the event. This annual competition draws the most talented and promising young students from Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.

Updated Tuesday, February 3, 2009 4:20 PM | The U.S. Army Orchestra Bio