Missouri State University and the Department of Music invite the public to hear the US Air Force’s Shades of Blue Jazz Ensemble 7:30 p.m. Sept. 17 in the John Goodman Amphitheatre.

The event is coordinated by MSU’s Dr. Jason Hausback, director of jazz studies.

Tickets are free. Registration is required.

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According to its website, the Shades of Blue Jazz Ensemble is a group of 18 professional enlisted musicians. Their repertoire includes traditional big band jazz, bebop, swing and modern jazz. Several of the band’s members compose and arrange their own works and include them in their performances.

“The USAF Band in St. Louis has brought various groups to our campus several times in the last 10 years, but this is the largest event they have planned thus far,” Hausback said. “There are terrific military band ensembles stationed throughout the country, and we are lucky to have one of the US Air Force units just down the road in St. Louis.”

Noting the group’s mission of outreach, Hausback said having the group perform at MSU serves both students and the community.

“I’m personally excited for this performance because it also gives our students an opportunity to learn about other career paths open to them,” he said. “In addition, it’s an opportunity to recognize and honor our veteran population on campus and in the greater Springfield area.”

“I’m thrilled that the Reynolds College is a willing participant and promoter of events like this,” he added.