Staff report, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- Love music? Interested in the military? Looking for a way to turn your passion into progress? Then do we have a story for you!
The Kentucky National Guard's 202nd Army Band is currently looking for musicians to join up and be part of a great professional organization with plenty of opportunity and a way to channel your musical passion. Positions include trombone, euphonium, French horn and keyboard.
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The 202nd Army Band performs during the Great American Brass Band Festival In Danville, Ky., June 9, 2012. (photo by Sgt. KJ McAleesejergins, Kentucky National Guard)
"The experience of being a member of the 202nd Army Band is unique," said Chief Warrant Officer Greg Stepp. "This is one of the most professional and interesting military units out there, especially for those of us who are musically inclined."
He should know; he's not only the commander for the 202nd, but he also conducts them during practices and performances. The 202nd has a long history of excellence, having just celebrated its 65th anniversary with a concert at Kentucky State University. The band also plays at military balls, community events across the Commonwealth, and the inauguration ceremony for the governor every four years.
And they don't just specialize in military music, either. You name it, they play it.
"We play a lot of martial style music for military ceremonies and public events, but we also cover the spectrum, from classical to Dixieland," said Stepp. "Our jazz band and rock band can play with the best of them."
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The Kentucky National Guard's 202nd Army Band recently celebrated its 65th year of service. It is currently recruiting for new members to play trombone, euphonium, French horn and keyboard. (Photo courtesy of 202nd Army Band)
Being a member of the 202nd isn't just knowing three quarter time and guitar riffs. There's also the small matter of being a combat qualified Soldier and going through all the training that requires.
"Our band members go through the same training as all Kentucky National Guard and U.S. Army Soldiers," said Sgt. 1st Class Angela Wilkins, readiness sergeant for the unit. "We hit the range and train in tactics and survival skills along with our artillery and infantry counterparts. There is no such thing as a boring day in the 202nd Army Band."
"This is a great opportunity for someone to serve his or her country, get world class training and have college costs covered," Wilkins added.
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The 202nd Band prepares to play during a Change of Command ceremony at Fort Eustis, Va., July 20, 2012. (Kentucky National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steve Baker)
For additional information about the 202nd Army Band please contact Sgt. 1st Class Angela Wilkins, 502-607-5331 or email her at angela.wilkins@us.army.mil.