The Howard University Showtime Marching Band
Playing nationally and internationally, from NFL games to the inaugural parade for Barack Obama, we welcome this acclaimed 150-member Showtime Band to kick off the festival.
The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own”
This 18-piece premier jazz ensemble of the renowned “Pershing’s Own” will be inaugurating the festival with pomp and circumstance.
National Anthem by the U.S. Army Chorus and Youth Choirs
An inspiring rendition of our national anthem with the elite Army Chorus and award-winning DMV high school choirs
Native American Dance, Drums, and Land Acknowledgement
A Native American blessing and acknowledgement of the landbyelders of the Piscataway and Lakota Tribes, followed by 100 Native American dancers and drummers
Blessings Invocation
250 high school students and 100 adults perform “United We Celebrate” with Grammy-nominated artist Chandrika Tandon
Sounds of the Swiss Alps
Elegant harmonies of Swiss alphorns, the original wooden wind instrument of Switzerland
Nadhaswaram Oboe Symphony
The harmonious sounds of nadhaswarm, a classical South Indian oboe
“America the Beautiful” and “Vande Mataram”
A choir of 250 high school students and 100 adults sing America the Beautiful and Vande Matram with Grammy-nominated artist Chandrika Tandon.
Jazz with the U.S. Army Blues
From “Pershing’s Own,” prepare for an electrifying jazz performance by the U.S. Army Blues.
Soul of Japan: Traditional Dance and Music
Classical performers embody a centuries-old tradition of elegance and storytelling through movement.