The United States Army Band Pershing's Own is a premier classical music ensemble that has been entertaining audiences for over 100 years. The band was founded in 1922 and has since become one of the most respected and renowned military bands in the world. The band was named after General John J. Pershing, who was the commander of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I. The band was originally formed to provide music for military ceremonies and events, but it quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional musical talent and began performing at concerts and other public events. Over the years, the band has had many talented musicians and conductors, but some of the most notable members include Colonel Arnald Gabriel, who served as the band's conductor from 1964 to 1985, and Sergeant Major Woodrow English, who was the band's principal clarinetist for over 30 years. One of the band's most notable performances was at the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy in 1961. The band played a stirring rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" as Kennedy was sworn in as the 35th President of the United States. The band has also performed at many other high-profile events, including the opening ceremonies of the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the funeral of President Ronald Reagan. In addition to its many performances, the band has also received numerous awards and honors over the years. In 1989, the band was awarded the Sudler Trophy, which is considered to be the highest honor that a military band can receive. The band has also been recognized for its outstanding performances at the Midwest Clinic, which is one of the largest music conferences in the world. Today, the United States Army Band Pershing's Own continues to be one of the most respected and admired classical music ensembles in the world. The band's dedication to excellence and its commitment to preserving the rich tradition of military music have made it a beloved institution among music lovers and military personnel alike.

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