“The School of Music has a long tradition of partnering with the many fine military ensembles that represent our nation,” said Keith Jackson, director of the School of Music. “We are also happy that many of our alumni become military musicians. These alumni take the skills and pride that is developed during their time at WVU and share it with a wider audience.”
The U.S. Fleet Forces Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Lieutenant Robert J. Coats, is the largest of the U.S. Fleet Forces Band's performing units. The Wind Ensemble’s repertoire ranges from traditional military marches and patriotic favorites to the finest works found in the wind band literature.
The Wind Ensemble performs at military and community events including public performances, educational concerts, master classes and instructional clinics for students throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Ohio River Valley regions of the United States. Maintaining a reputation of consistent quality and versatility, the U.S. Fleet Forces Wind Ensemble endures as one of the Navy’s most respected performing ensembles.
U.S. Fleet Forces Band regularly participates in events of national and international significance both at home in the United States and abroad. In addition to military ceremonies, this includes performances for current and former presidents, foreign dignitaries, and members of national and local governments.
Admission is free and open to the public. Seating in the Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.