The Singing Sergeants, the official chorus of the United States Air Force, is one of the world’s most versatile and traveled choral organizations. Originally formed in 1945 from the ranks of The United States Army Air Forces Band, the chorus has a long heritage of excellence. It is comprised of 18 professional Airmen vocalists, recruited from the finest colleges, universities and music conservatories to serve as active-duty musicians in the United States Air Force.
Fresh off the success of the Band’s first-ever flash mob , the Singing Sergeants are tackling another military first in social media with its “12 Days of Christmas” video project on YouTube.
In an effort to connect with a worldwide audience during the holidays, leadership prodded the singers for innovative ideas. Among the many wonderful suggestions, Master Sgt. Matthew Irish’s “12 Days” project shined the brightest. What a creative way to share charming, beautiful music and spread some cheer across the globe!
The Singing Sergeants donned everyday Air Force uniforms accented with holiday accoutrement for three days of live taping. With the guidance of our highly skilled audio engineers and production team, they recorded 15 festive favorites, including some variations you may have never heard! A few of the seasonal selections include “The Holly and the Ivy” from the islands, “12 Days of Christmas in Africa”, a Celtic-style “I Saw Three Ships” and a quirky version of “Deck the Halls.”
Here is one of their recordings, Silent Night. Enjoy.
Photo, video and text: U.S. Air Force Band as indicated
The author is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and a writer.