Academy band wows crowd with help from old friend

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jeremy Larlee
  • Air Force Print News
SAN ANTONIO (AFPN) --  The U.S. Air Force Academy Band's Falconaires performed a concert for the Texas Band Members Association convention here at the Lila Cockrell Theatre with the assistance of a living legend.

Sammy Nestico, known in music circles for his long career as a military musician and his success in the music field after leaving the military, led The Falconaires through a set of 13 of his most famous works.

"When you work with great people they lift you up to their level," said Master Sgt. Christopher Gaona, the band's musical director and drum player. "It was a fantastic experience, It's not every day you get to work with someone with such history and legendary status. He is such a nice guy; he makes it very easy to play."

Mr. Nestico has been awarded with multiple Grammys and has worked with Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Barbra Streisand and Phil Collins. The legend's music has also graced numerous television, movie and advertising spots.

The Falconaires were glad to play in front of such a large crowd. The Texas Band Members Association is one of the country's largest musical organizations and includes numerous educators.

"It's great to play in different parts of the country that may have not heard about the Air Force Academy," Sergeant Gaona said. "We can spread the word that the academy offers an opportunity to get a good education and (they can) be the next generation of Air Force leaders."

The performance drew numerous standing ovations from the crowd. Brian Casey, who teaches music at Brazoswood High School in Clute, Texas, enjoyed the show.

"It was absolutely amazing, it was a great band with great tunes and that is a good combination for an entertaining show," he said.

Mr. Nestico was impressed by the abilities of The Falconaires.

"They are lightyears ahead of where we were when I served," Mr. Nestico said. "They are like studio musicians. In my opinion the best bands in the country are in the services."

Mr. Nestico was proud to have helped spread the Air Force message to the crowd.

"I have a great love for the services. My father was the greatest American I have ever known and he taught me to love my country," he said.