A Night to Remember

Photo By Cpl. Desmond Andrews | U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Ken Ebo, a musical technical assistant for the 8th Marine Corps District, performs alongside a high school musician from the Keller school district, during the Keller Area Youth Jazz Orchestra concert at Venture Church in Keller, Texas, on Jan. 6.  

KELLER, TX, UNITED STATES

01.11.2019

Story by Lance Cpl. Desmond Andrews 

8th Marine Corps District

The Keller Area Youth Jazz Orchestra, made up of high school students from the Keller Independent School District, performed a concert with U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Ken Ebo at Venture Church in Keller, Texas, on Jan. 6.
Ebo, a musical technical assistant for the 8th Marine Corps District, partnered with the Mayor of Keller, Pat McGrail, to orchestrate event.
The performance, which was free and open to the public, showcased the musical talents of high school musicians from throughout the district.
"Marine Music is a small part of our total force, but I hope the evening showed that it is an important part of our Corps culture and a real bridge to our local communities,” said Ebo. “Through America's only indigenous art form, jazz music, we had a chance to provide a vital part of our national experience.”
The Jazz concert promoted a strong relationship between the Marines and the music community. It further contributed in helping high school musicians understand the potential for them to pursue their musical careers while serving their country.
“We’ve always had a strong relationship with the Marines,” said Gary Phillips, the executive director of the Keller Area Youth Jazz Orchestra. “Four of our students have gone on to study music at the Naval School of Music and serve their country; to include my own son. The unique experiences they have had while traveling and performing are unparalleled.”
The dedication and passion of the musicians was apparent by their impressive performance. Out of all the musicians who performed, six were selected to audition for the Texas All State Band.
“These musicians’ skills transcend their age,” said McGrail.
It is worthwhile for communities to provide kids a chance to flourish artistically while producing productive citizens, explained Ebo.
“This is the second opportunity I’ve had to perform with this ensemble and both times have been absolutely rewarding,” said Ebo. “The experience with the ensemble is fantastic and the community support is outstanding.”
Today’s youth are often scared or intimidated by the Marines, said Phillips.
“Having the opportunity to meet and work with them allows them to learn that they are people, just like you and me,” continued Phillips.
Ebo explained that the experience can help reestablish principal values and draw a community together.
“The Keller community really came together to make this happen,” said Ebo. “I think the evening bolstered our faith in those national values that we all hold dear and that we, especially as Marines, are committed to protect and defend.”
The upbeat program of the concert both entertained and educated the audience, and it gave them a chance to reign in the New Year with a melodic swing.
“I can’t think of a better way to get 2019 started than being here with you all, enjoying wonderful music with friends and family while supporting a group of talented artists,” said McGrail.

• Date Taken: 01.11.2019
• Date Posted: 01.14.2019 09:49
• Story ID: 306768
• Location: KELLER, TX, US